If losartan isn’t working for you — side effects, cost, or a new health issue — you have good options. Below I explain real alternatives, why a doctor might pick each one, and simple steps to switch safely. This is practical info to bring to your appointment, not medical advice. Always check with your prescriber before changing medicines.
Losartan is an ARB (angiotensin II receptor blocker). The easiest swaps are other ARBs because they act the same way and usually have similar side effects:
If ARBs aren’t suitable, other classes work too:
Don’t stop losartan on your own. Tell your doctor why you want a change — for example, cough, dizziness, high potassium, pregnancy plans, or cost. If you’re pregnant or planning pregnancy, ARBs must be stopped immediately because they can harm the fetus.
When switching, providers check your kidney function and potassium before and after the change. Expect a basic blood test (creatinine and potassium) within 1–2 weeks after a switch or dose change. You may need to start the new drug at a lower dose and monitor blood pressure frequently at first.
Practical tips for the visit: bring a full list of medicines and supplements (some raise potassium or interact), measure your blood pressure at home if possible, and ask about generic options to reduce cost. Watch for lightheadedness the first few days. If you had cough on an ACE inhibitor, ARBs like losartan are usually better tolerated — but if an ARB caused an issue, switching to a different class may help.
Lifestyle matters: cutting sodium, losing even a few pounds, increasing activity, and limiting alcohol can reduce how much medication you need. If you want, tell me your age, kidney status, and current meds and I’ll help compare two specific drug choices side-by-side so you can bring clear questions to your prescriber.
Looking for options beyond Losartan for managing blood pressure? This guide breaks down seven reliable alternatives. You'll get real comparisons, pros and cons, and tips for choosing the right medication. Each alternative is easy to understand, so you can have a better conversation with your doctor. Reading this could help you make a smarter decision for your health.
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