Losartan

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Losartan

Losartan (pronounced loe-SAR-tan) is a medication used primarily to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It is also used to lower the risk of stroke in certain people with heart disease. Losartan is in a class of drugs known as angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It works by blocking the action of certain natural substances that tighten the blood vessels, allowing the blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently.

Etymology

The name "Losartan" is derived from its chemical name, which is 2-butyl-4-chloro-1-p-tolylmethyl-5-imidazolecarboxylic acid, 5-methoxy-3-oxo-3,4-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzoxazin-6-yl ester. The "Los" part of the name is derived from the Los Angeles-based pharmaceutical company that first developed the drug, Merck & Co., and "artan" is a common suffix for angiotensin II receptor antagonists.

Related Terms

  • Angiotensin II receptor antagonists: A class of drugs that includes Losartan. These drugs block the action of angiotensin II, a chemical in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten and narrow.
  • High blood pressure: A condition that Losartan is often used to treat. High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high.
  • Heart failure: A chronic condition in which the heart doesn't pump blood as well as it should. Losartan is used to manage this condition.
  • Stroke: A medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted. Losartan is used to lower the risk of stroke in certain people with heart disease.

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