Heartlic, Savorite, ZMC (Losartan Potassium) 100mg Tablets

Losartan 100mg is the highest approved strength of this widely prescribed angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). It works by blocking a hormone that tightens blood vessels, allowing the heart to pump more efficiently and blood pressure to drop. Beyond controlling hypertension, the 100mg dose is specifically used to protect the kidneys in diabetic patients and to reduce stroke risk in high-risk individuals — making it one of the most versatile blood pressure medicines available.

Drug class ARB (angiotensin receptor blocker)

Dosage form Film-coated tablet · oral

Usual dosing Once daily, with or without food

Effect onset Within 1 week; full effect 3–6 weeks

What is Losartan 100mg used for?

High blood pressure (hypertension)

For adults and children over 6 years whose blood pressure was not adequately controlled on a lower dose of losartan (50mg). Reduces the risk of heart attack and stroke from uncontrolled hypertension.

Kidney protection in type 2 diabetes (diabetic nephropathy)

In diabetic patients with high blood pressure and protein in the urine, the 100mg dose slows the progression of kidney damage and delays the need for dialysis or transplant. This is one of its most important uses.

Stroke prevention in left ventricular hypertrophy (LVH)

For patients with both high blood pressure and an enlarged heart muscle (LVH), losartan 100mg helps reduce the risk of a first stroke by reversing harmful cardiac remodelling caused by angiotensin II.

How Losartan works

Angiotensin II is a natural hormone that causes blood vessels to tighten (vasoconstriction), raising blood pressure. Losartan selectively blocks the receptor that angiotensin II binds to — the AT1 receptor — preventing this tightening effect. The result is relaxed, wider blood vessels, lower blood pressure, and less strain on the heart and kidneys. Unlike ACE inhibitors, losartan does not cause a persistent dry cough, making it a well-tolerated alternative for many patients.

Unlike ACE inhibitors (e.g. lisinopril, ramipril), losartan does not cause a persistent dry cough — a common reason patients are switched to an ARB.

Dosing at a glance

Hypertension

50mg → 100mg once daily

Doctor escalates to 100mg if 50mg does not achieve target blood pressure.

Diabetic nephropathy

50mg → 100mg once daily

100mg is the recommended target dose for optimal kidney protection.

Stroke prevention (LVH)

50mg → 100mg once daily

Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5–25mg may be added if further BP reduction is needed.

Take at the same time each day. May be taken with or without food. Do not double up if a dose is missed.

Common side effects

Contact your doctor if dizziness is persistent or if you notice reduced urine output.

Important safety information

• Not safe during pregnancy — can cause serious injury or death to a developing baby. Discontinue immediately if pregnancy is detected
• Avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes unless your doctor approves — losartan can raise potassium levels
• Dehydration risk — if you have vomiting, diarrhoea, or are sweating heavily, contact your doctor as this can cause dangerous drops in blood pressure
• Kidney function monitoring required — your doctor will check kidney function and electrolytes regularly
• Interacts with NSAIDs (e.g. ibuprofen, diclofenac), ACE inhibitors, aliskiren, diuretics, and lithium — tell your doctor about all medicines you take
• Note for Black patients: evidence suggests the stroke-reduction benefit in LVH may be less pronounced — your doctor will advise on the most appropriate treatment
• Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor — blood pressure can rebound
• A valid prescription is required to purchase this medication