Losartan

Losartan is a medication commonly known by the brand name Cozaar. It belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) and is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to reduce the risk of stroke in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy. It works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to constrict and the kidneys to retain salt and water. This helps to lower blood pressure and decrease the workload on the heart.

Side Effects Health Impacts Weakened Immune Response Slow Skin & Wound Healing

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Losartan

Losartan Side Effects & Health Impacts

Nutrient depletion caused by Losartan can lead to a range of health impacts. This medication is commonly used for Hypertension.

Side Effects

Some possible side effects of the hypertension drug losartan include:

1. Dizziness or lightheadedness
2. Fatigue or weakness
3. Nausea or stomach pain
4. Headache
5. Back pain
6. Cough
7. Diarrhea
8. Muscle pain or cramps
9. Swelling of the hands, feet, or ankles
10. Changes in mood or mental status
11. Increased potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia)
12. Allergic reactions, such as rash, itching, or swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

These side effects are not experienced by everyone who takes losartan, and some people may not experience any side effects at all. It is important to talk to a healthcare provider if you have any concerns about side effects while taking this medication.

Health Impacts

Losartan may deplete important nutrients your body relies on every day. These changes often occur gradually as medications affect nutrient absorption, metabolism, or utilization. Over time, low nutrient levels can contribute to fatigue, neurological symptoms, metabolic issues, and reduced resilience. Addressing these depletions can help support long-term health while continuing necessary treatment.

Weakened Immune Response

Zinc depletion compromises innate and adaptive immune responses, leading to lymphopenia, reduced T-cell function and higher susceptibility to infections.

Classic dermatology and immunology literature shows that zinc deficiency causes lymphopenia and reduced immune capacity; more recent work links marginal deficiency to impaired inflammatory and anti-microbial responses.

Fraker PJ et al. The dynamic link between the integrity of the immune system and zinc status. JAMA Dermatol. 1987;123(2):169-174.; Lopez EA et al. Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of zinc on wound healing. Nutr Clin Pract. 2025;40(2):123-135.

Slow Skin & Wound Healing

Low zinc disrupts keratinocyte proliferation, collagen synthesis and epithelial repair, resulting in delayed wound healing, dermatitis and poor tissue regeneration.

Experimental and clinical studies demonstrate that zinc deficiency is associated with skin lesions, delayed wound closure and abnormal inflammatory responses, while zinc repletion can improve healing outcomes in selected populations.

Lin PH, Sermersheim M et al. Zinc in wound healing modulation. Nutrients. 2017;9(1):16.; News-Medical. The role of zinc in immune health and wound healing. 2024.; Lopez EA et al. Systematic review and meta-analysis of the effect of zinc on wound healing. Nutr Clin Pract. 2025;40(2):123-135.

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Ask our expert AI assistant additional questions related to Losartan.