What is Hyzaar?

Hyzaar is an oral pill made up two drugs called losartan (an angiotensin II receptor antagonist; “ARB blocker”) and hydrochlorothiazide (a diuretic; “water pill”). We carry this medication in the brand choice and in the generic alternative in 50mg/12.5mg, 100mg/12.5mg, and 100mg/25mg!

What is Hyzaar used for?

Hyzaar is a medication used to lower blood pressure in patients with hypertension (high blood pressure). A person who has narrow arteries and a heart that pumps more blood than normal will have high blood pressure. High blood pressure is a condition in which there are little symptoms – if any at all – which is why it is important to have your blood pressure checked often. If blood pressure goes untreated for too long, a person risks developing heart problems (like heart attack or stroke) and kidney problems.

How does Hyzaar work?

Hyzaar (losartan and hydrochlorothiazide) is effective in the treatment of high blood pressure due to its diuretic agent and its ARB blocker. The diuretic (hydrochlorothiazide) helps by preventing your body from absorbing too much salt, to avoid the occurrence of fluid retention. Fluid retention is when there is too much fluid in the body, which will raise blood pressure. The ARB blocker (losartan) in Hyzaar helps by relaxing the blood vessels so they become less swollen, narrowing the vessels and allowing blood to flow more smoothly.

It is important to follow the directions given to you by your doctor to avoid adverse interactions, unwanted side effects, and ineffectiveness.

While using this medication, ensure you are having your blood pressure checked often.

Take Hyzaar once a day, by mouth, with or without food. It is recommended you take this medication at least 4 hours before you go to bed, otherwise you risk getting up throughout the night to urinate.

Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from. Ensure you do not miss a dose by taking Hyzaar at the same time every day. Using a pillbox and setting reminders can be effective in reminding you to take your medication.

Store this medication away from moisture, heat and light at room temperature; keep away from children and pets. 

If you are pregnant; do not use Hyzaar! If you find out you are pregnant while using this medication, discontinue use immediately and contact your doctor. Using this medication during pregnancy could lead to serious consequences on the baby, including death.

Do not breastfeed while using Hyzaar, this drug passes into breast milk.

If you are a person who has trouble urinating, you should not use this medication. You will need to urinate often while using this medication.

Any medications that have aliskiren (a blood pressure medicine) should not be used together with Hyzaar, especially those with diabetes and potentially those with kidney disease.

Kidney failure caused by the breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue can be caused by taking this medication. Call your doctor right away if you notice any signs of skeletal muscle tissue problems (see side effects).

Call your doctor if you have ongoing vomiting, diarrhea, or sweating more than normal. You may become dehydrated and may experience very low blood pressure, a serious electrolyte imbalance, or kidney failure.

Common side effects of Hyzaar (losartan/hydrochlorothiazide) may include:

dizziness; back pain; or cold symptoms such as stuffy nose, sneezing, sore throat.

The above side effects should not alarm you.

Serious side effects of Hyzaar (losartan/hydrochlorothiazide) may include:

a light-headed feeling, like you might pass out; irregular heartbeats; eye pain, vision problems;

If you have any of the above side effects, contact your doctor right away.

Signs to watch for:

kidney problems - little or no urination, rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, feet, or ankles;

breakdown of skeletal muscle tissue - unexplained muscle pain, tenderness, or weakness especially if you also have fever, unusual tiredness, and dark colored urine.

new or worsening symptoms of lupus - joint pain, and a skin rash on your cheeks or arms that worsens in sunlight; or

signs of an electrolyte imbalance - increased thirst or urination, confusion, vomiting, constipation, muscle pain, leg cramps, irregular heartbeats, numbness or tingling, severe weakness, loss of movement, feeling jittery or unsteady.

What should I avoid while using this medication?

You should avoid potassium supplements, alcohol consumption and becoming overheated or dehydrated while using Hyzaar.

What should I do if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember; if you next dose is approaching, skip the missed dose. Do not try to make up for a missed dose by doubling up on medication.

What are some other medications that interact with losartan and hydrochlorothiazide (Hyzaar)?

Other medications that interact with Hyzaar include other diuretics, other blood pressure medicines, lithium, and NSAIDs (non-inflammatory drugs) such as aspirin, ibuprofen, Advil, Naproxen, and others.

Is this product safe for children?

This product has not been established as safe or effective in children 0-17. Do not give this medication to those under the age of 18 years old.