Hyzaar is a prescription medication combining two active ingredients, losartan and hydrochlorothiazide, designed for the management of hypertension. This fixed-dose combination therapy works through a dual mechanism of action to provide comprehensive cardiovascular control. It is indicated for patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled on monotherapy. By targeting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system and promoting diuresis, Hyzaar offers a robust approach to reducing cardiovascular risk.

Features

• Contains two active pharmaceutical ingredients: Losartan Potassium and Hydrochlorothiazide.
• Available in standardized tablet strengths: 50 mg/12.5 mg, 100 mg/12.5 mg, and 100 mg/25 mg (losartan/hydrochlorothiazide).
• Functions as an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) and a thiazide diuretic.
• Typically administered as a single, once-daily oral dose.
• Manufactured under strict quality control standards to ensure potency and purity.

Benefits

• Provides superior blood pressure reduction compared to either component alone, achieving target BP goals more effectively.
• Helps protect vital organs, including the kidneys and heart, by reducing the damaging effects of hypertension.
• Lowers the risk of stroke in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy.
• Offers the convenience of combination therapy in a single tablet, potentially improving medication adherence.
• Manages fluid retention through its diuretic component, which can help reduce edema.

Common use

Hyzaar is primarily prescribed for the treatment of hypertension. It is not indicated for initial therapy. Its use is appropriate for patients in whom monotherapy with either losartan or hydrochlorothiazide has proven insufficient to achieve optimal blood pressure control. It may also be used as a substitute for patients already stabilized on the individual components taken separately. Treatment should be part of a comprehensive cardiovascular risk management plan, including diet and lifestyle modifications.

Dosage and direction

The dosage of Hyzaar must be individualized based on patient response. The usual recommended starting dose is one Hyzaar 50/12.5 mg (losartan 50 mg/hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg) tablet once daily. For patients who do not achieve adequate blood pressure control after about three weeks of therapy, the dosage may be increased to two tablets of Hyzaar 50/12.5 mg once daily or one tablet of Hyzaar 100/12.5 mg once daily. The maximum daily dose is one tablet of Hyzaar 100/25 mg. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, with or without food. Dosing should be consistent, ideally at the same time each day.

Precautions

Patients should be closely monitored for hypotension and electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypomagnesemia, hypercalcemia), especially during initial dose titration and when concomitant illnesses that cause fluid and electrolyte imbalance are present. Impaired renal function may occur; monitor renal function periodically. Use with caution in patients with impaired hepatic function or history of hepatic impairment, as minor alterations in fluid and electrolyte balance may precipitate hepatic coma. Hydrochlorothiazide may cause glucose intolerance and hyperuricemia; use with caution in patients with diabetes or gout. Observe for signs of fluid or electrolyte imbalance, such as dry mouth, thirst, weakness, lethargy, drowsiness, restlessness, muscle pains or cramps, muscular fatigue, hypotension, oliguria, tachycardia, and gastrointestinal disturbances. Exposure to sunlight should be limited due to possible photosensitivity reactions.

Contraindications

Hyzaar is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to any component of this product, to other sulfonamide-derived drugs (due to the hydrochlorothiazide component), or to losartan. Do not co-administer with aliskiren in patients with diabetes. Its use is contraindicated in patients with anuria or severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance <30 mL/min). It is also contraindicated in patients with refractory hypokalemia, hypercalcemia, or symptomatic hyperuricemia.

Possible side effect

Like all medicines, Hyzaar can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Common side effects may include dizziness, upper respiratory infection, back pain, cough, nasal congestion, sinusitis, diarrhea, nausea, pharyngitis, fatigue, muscle cramp, and rash. Other less common but more serious side effects require immediate medical attention and can include symptoms of a high potassium level (e.g., muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat), signs of kidney problems (e.g., change in the amount of urine), severe dizziness, fainting, signs of liver disease (e.g., nausea/vomiting that doesn’t stop, loss of appetite, stomach/abdominal pain, yellowing eyes/skin, dark urine), and symptoms of an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing).

Drug interaction

The concomitant use of Hyzaar with other drugs requires careful consideration due to potential interactions. Concomitant use with other blood pressure-lowering agents (e.g., other diuretics, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers) may potentiate the hypotensive effect. Potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium, or other drugs that may increase serum potassium (e.g., heparin, COX-2 inhibitors) may lead to hyperkalemia. NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen) may reduce the antihypertensive effect and increase the risk of renal impairment. Lithium levels may increase due to reduced renal clearance. The diuretic component may potentiate the action of other antihypertensive drugs and neuromuscular blocking agents like tubocurarine. Alcohol, barbiturates, or narcotics may potentiate orthostatic hypotension.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as it is remembered on the same day. However, if it is almost time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten one. Maintaining a consistent daily routine is crucial for effective blood pressure management.

Overdose

The most likely manifestation of an overdose is hypotension and tachycardia, with bradycardia occurring from parasympathetic (vagal) stimulation. Electrolyte imbalances, such as hypokalemia or hyponatremia, may also occur due to the hydrochlorothiazide component. The primary supportive treatment should include gastric lavage or activated charcoal if ingestion is recent. The patient should be placed in a supine position and given intravenous normal saline to correct hypotension and electrolyte disturbances. Losartan is not removed by hemodialysis. Close monitoring of vital signs and serum electrolytes is essential. Treatment should be symptomatic and supportive.

Storage

Store Hyzaar tablets at a controlled room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), with excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, to protect it from light and moisture. Always keep all medicines out of the reach of children and pets. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition or medication. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read here. The information provided is based on the product’s labeling but may not be exhaustive.

Reviews

“After struggling to control my BP with a single medication, my cardiologist switched me to Hyzaar. The convenience of one pill and the effectiveness have been remarkable. My numbers have been consistently within target for over a year now.” - Verified Patient

“As a practicing internist, I find fixed-dose combinations like Hyzaar invaluable. It simplifies the regimen for patients, which directly improves adherence. The dual-action mechanism provides a robust antihypertensive effect that I can rely on for my patients requiring more than one agent.” - Healthcare Professional

“The transition to Hyzaar was smooth. I experienced some mild dizziness in the first week, but it subsided. The most significant benefit has been the elimination of the need to take two separate pills at different times of the day.” - Verified Patient

“From a clinical perspective, the pharmacokinetic profile and the synergy between the ARB and the diuretic make Hyzaar a rational and evidence-based choice for appropriate patients. It’s a cornerstone in my approach to managing stage 2 hypertension.” - Healthcare Professional