Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

Pharmacy Guide

Patient leaflets and SmPCs, drug interaction checker, official dosages and NHS pharmacy opening hours — all in one place.

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Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100/25 mg film-coated tablets

⚠ This medicine appears to have been discontinued

The electronic medicines compendium (emc) no longer publishes a Summary of Product Characteristics for this product, which usually means it is no longer marketed in the UK. The patient leaflet below is kept for reference, but the product may not be available.

If you were prescribed this medicine, other products containing Hydrochlorothiazide, Losartan potassium may still be available. Do not stop your treatment — ask your pharmacist or GP what to use instead.

Active substance: Hydrochlorothiazide, Losartan potassium

Equivalent medicines (same active substance, strength and form)

Source: electronic medicines compendium (emc)
Official leaflet: Read the PIL on emc

What it is and what it is used for

for 2. What you need to know before you take Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 3. How to take Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 4. Possible side effects 5. How to store Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 6. Contents of the pack and other information

produced in the body which binds to receptors in blood vessels, causing them to tighten. This results in an increase in blood pressure. Losartan prevents the binding of angiotensin II to these receptors, causing the blood vessels to relax which in turn lowers the blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide works by making the kidneys pass more water and salt. This also helps to reduce blood pressure.

Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide is indicated for the treatment of essential hypertension (high blood pressure).

What you need to know before you take it

e Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide Do not take Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide

  • if you are allergic to losartan and/or hydrochlorothiazide or any of the other ingredients of this medicine (listed in section 6);
  • if you are allergic to other sulfonamide-derived substances (e.g. other thiazides, some antibacterial drugs such as co-trimoxazole, ask your doctor if you are not sure);
  • if you are more than 3 months pregnant. (It is also better to avoid Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide in early pregnancy – see pregnancy section.);

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  • if you have severely impaired liver function; cholestasis and biliary obstructive disorders;
  • if you have severely impaired kidney function (i.e. creatinine clearance <30 ml/min);
  • if your kidneys are not producing any urine;
  • if you have low potassium, low sodium or high calcium levels which cannot be corrected by treatment;
  • if you are suffering from gout;
  • if you have diabetes or impaired kidney function and you are treated with a blood pressure lowering medicine containing aliskiren. Warnings and precautions Talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide:
  • if you have previously suffered from swelling of the face, lips, throat or tongue,
  • if you take diuretics (water pills),
  • if you are on a salt-restricted diet,
  • if you have or have had severe vomiting and/or diarrhoea,
  • if you have heart failure,
  • if your liver function is impaired (see section 2 "Do not take Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide"),
  • if you have narrow arteries to your kidneys (renal artery stenosis) or only have one functioning kidney, or you have recently had a kidney transplant,
  • if you have narrowing of the arteries (atherosclerosis), angina pectoris (chest pain due to poor heart function),
  • if you have 'aortic or mitral valve stenosis' (narrowing of the valves of the heart) or 'hypertrophic cardiomyopathy' (a disease causing thickening of heart muscle),
  • if you are diabetic,

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  • if you have had gout,
  • if you have or have had an allergic condition, asthma or a condition that causes joint pain, skin rashes and fever (systemic lupus erythematosus),
  • if you have high calcium or low potassium levels or you are on a low potassium diet,
  • if you need to have an anaesthetic (even at the dentist) or before surgery, or if you are going to have tests to check your parathyroid function, you must tell the doctor or medical staff that you are taking losartan potassium and hydrochlorothiazide tablets,
  • if you suffer from primary hyperaldosteronism (a syndrome associated with increased secretion of the hormone aldosterone by the adrenal gland, caused by an abnormality within the gland),
  • if you are taking other medicines that may increase serum potassium (see section 2 "Other medicines and Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide"),
  • if you have had skin cancer or if you develop an unexpected skin lesion during the treatment. Treatment with hydrochlorothiazide, particularly long term use with high doses, may increase the risk of some types of skin and lip cancer (non-melanoma skin cancer). Protect your skin from sun exposure and UV rays while taking Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide,
  • if you experienced breathing or lung problems (including inflammation or fluid in the lungs) following hydrochlorothiazide intake in the past. If you develop any severe shortness of breath or difficulty breathing after taking Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide, seek medical attention immediately,
  • if you experience a decrease in vision or eye pain. These could be symptoms of fluid accumulation in the vascular

layer of the eye (choroidal effusion) or an increase of pressure in your eye and can happen within hours to weeks of taking Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide. This can lead to permanent vision loss, if not treated. If you earlier have had a penicillin or sulfonamide allergy, you can be at higher risk of developing this,

  • if you are taking any of the following medicines used to treat high blood pressure:
  • an ACE-inhibitor (for example enalapril, lisinopril, ramipril), in particular if you have diabetes-related kidney problems,
  • aliskiren. Your doctor may check your kidney function, blood pressure, and the amount of electrolytes (e.g. potassium) in your blood at regular intervals. See also information under the heading "Do not take Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide". You must tell your doctor if you think that you are (or might become) pregnant. Losartan Potassium/ Hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended in early pregnancy and must not be taken if you are more than 3 months pregnant, as it may cause serious harm to your baby if used at that stage (see pregnancy section). Other medicines and Losartan Potassium/ Hydrochlorothiazide Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are taking, have recently taken or might take any other medicines. Tell your doctor if you are taking potassium supplements, potassium-containing salt substitutes, potassium-sparing medicines, or other medicines that may increase serum potassium (e.g., trimethoprim-containing medicines), as

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the combination with Losartan Potassium/ Hydrochlorothiazide is not advisable. Diuretic agents such as the hydrochlorothiazide contained in Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide may interact with other medicines. Preparations containing lithium should not be taken with Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide without close supervision by your doctor. Special precautionary measures (e.g. blood tests) may be appropriate if you take other diuretics ("water tablets"), some laxatives, medicines for the treatment of gout, medicines to control heart rhythm or for diabetes (oral agents or insulins). It is also important for your doctor to know if you are taking other medicines to reduce your blood pressure, steroids, medicines to treat cancer, pain killers, drugs for treatment of fungal infections, arthritis medicines, resins used for high cholesterol, such as colestyramine, medicines which relax your muscles, sleeping tablets, opioid medicines such as morphine, 'pressor amines' such as adrenaline or other drugs from the same group (oral agents for diabetes or insulins). Your doctor may need to change your dose and/or to take other precautions:

  • If you are taking an ACE-inhibitor or aliskiren (see also information under the headings "Do not take Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide " and "Warnings and precautions"). Please also inform your doctor when it is planned to apply iodine contrast media about taking Losartan Potassium/ Hydrochlorothiazide.

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Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide with food, drink and alcohol This medicinal product may be taken with or without food. You are advised not to drink alcohol whilst taking these tablets: alcohol and Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide tablets may increase each other's effects. Dietary salt in excessive quantities may counteract the effect of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide tablets. Grapefruit juice should be avoided while taking Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide tablets. Pregnancy and breast-feeding If you are pregnant or breast-feeding, think you may be pregnant or are planning to have a baby, ask your doctor or pharmacist for advice before taking this medicine. Pregnancy You must tell your doctor if you think you are (or might become) pregnant. Your doctor will normally advise you to stop taking Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide before you become pregnant or as soon as you know you are pregnant and will advise you to take another medicine instead of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide. Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended during pregnancy, and must not be taken when more than 3 months pregnant, as it may cause serious harm to your baby if used after the third month of pregnancy. Breastfeeding Tell your doctor if you are breast-feeding or about to start breast-feeding. Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended for mothers who are breast-feeding, and your doctor may choose another treatment for you if you wish to breast-feed, especially if your baby is newborn, or was born prematurely.

Leaflet folded on middle with visibly first side (title); PhC that comes out of the middle of leaflet must be visible!/ Navodila prepognjena na sredini z vidno prvo stranjo (naslovom); pharma kodi, ki izhajata iz sredine navodila, morata biti vidni!

  • Črna U/Black U iKRKk Šifra/Article No.: XXXXXX Emb. mat./Article name.: NA./PL. Losartan Potassium/ Hydrochlorothiazide 100 mg/25 GB Dimenzije/Dimension: 148 ± 0,5 mm x 520 ± 0,8 mm Material: papir tip B/Woodfree paper 50 g/m2 PhC št./PhC No.: 4543 Merilo/Measure: 1:1 Datum/Date: 11.07.2023 Izdelal/Prepared by: A. Mohorič Pregledal/Checked by: J. Kastelic

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Use in children and adolescents There is no experience with the use of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide in children. Therefore, Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide should not be given to children. Use in elderly patients Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide works equally well in and is equally well tolerated by most older and younger adult patients. Most older patients require the same dose as younger patients. Driving and using machines When you begin treatment with this medication, you should not perform tasks which may require special attention (for example, driving an automobile or operating dangerous machinery) until you know how you tolerate your medicine. Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide contains lactose If you have been told by your doctor that you have an intolerance to some sugars, contact your doctor before taking this medicinal product.

How to take it

Losartan Potassium/ Hydrochlorothiazide Always take this medicine exactly as described in this leaflet or as your doctor or pharmacist have told you. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you are not sure. Your doctor will decide on the appropriate dose of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide depending on your condition and whether you are taking other medicines. It is important to continue taking Losartan Potassium/ Hydrochlorothiazide for as long as your doctor prescribes it in order to maintain smooth control of your blood pressure.

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High Blood Pressure The usual dose of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide for most patients with high blood pressure is 1 tablet of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg/12.5 mg per day to control blood pressure over the 24-hour period. This can be increased to 2 tablets once daily of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg/12.5 mg film-coated tablets or changed to 1 tablet daily of Losartan Potassium/ Hydrochlorothiazide 100 mg/25 mg film-coated tablets (a stronger strength) per day. The maximum daily dose is 2 tablets per day of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg/12.5 mg film-coated tablets or 1 tablet daily of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100 mg/25 mg film-coated tablets. If you take more Losartan Potassium/ Hydrochlorothiazide than you should In case of an overdose, contact your doctor immediately so that medical attention may be given promptly. Overdose can cause a drop in blood pressure, palpitations, slow pulse, changes in blood composition, and dehydration. If you forget to take Losartan Potassium/ Hydrochlorothiazide Try to take Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide daily as prescribed. However, if you miss a dose, do not take an extra dose. Just resume your usual schedule. If you have any further questions on the use of this medicine, ask your doctor or pharmacist.

Possible side effects

Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them.

If you experience the following, stop taking Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide tablets and tell your doctor immediately or go to the casualty department of your nearest hospital: A severe allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, mouth or throat that may cause difficulty in swallowing or breathing). This is a serious but rare side effect, which affects more than 1 out of 10,000 patients but fewer than 1 out of 1,000 patients. You may need urgent medical attention or hospitalisation. The following side effects have been reported: Common (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Cough, upper airway infection, congestion in the nose, sinusitis, sinus disorder.
  • Diarrhoea, abdominal pain, nausea, indigestion.
  • Muscle pain or cramps, leg pain, back pain.
  • Insomnia, headache, dizziness.
  • Weakness, tiredness, chest pain.
  • Increased potassium levels (which can cause an abnormal heart rhythm), decreased haemoglobin levels.
  • Changes in kidney function including kidney failure.
  • Too low sugar in the blood (hypoglycaemia). Uncommon (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):
  • Anaemia, red or brownish spots on the skin (sometimes especially on the feet, legs, arms and buttocks, with joint pain, swelling of the hands and feet and stomach pain), bruising, reduction in white blood cells, clotting problems and reduced number of platelets.
  • Loss of appetite, increased uric acid levels or frank gout, increased blood sugar levels, abnormal blood electrolyte levels.

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  • Anxiety, nervousness, panic disorder (recurring panic attacks), confusion, depression, abnormal dreams, sleep disorders, sleepiness, memory impairment.
  • Pins and needles or similar sensations, pain in the extremities, trembling, migraine, fainting.
  • Blurred vision, burning or stinging in the eyes, conjunctivitis, worsening eyesight, seeing things in yellow.
  • Ringing, buzzing, roaring or clicking in the ears, vertigo.
  • Low blood pressure, which may be associated with changes in posture (feeling light-headed or weak when you stand up, angina (chest pain), abnormal heartbeat, cerebrovascular accident (TIA, "mini-stroke"), heart attack, palpitations.
  • Inflammation of blood vessels, which is often associated with a skin rash or bruising.
  • Sore throat, breathlessness, bronchitis, pneumonia, water on the lungs (which causes difficulty breathing), nosebleed, runny nose, congestion.
  • Constipation, obstipation, wind, stomach upsets, stomach spasms, vomiting, dry mouth, inflammation of a salivary gland, toothache.
  • Jaundice (yellowing of the eyes and skin), inflammation of the pancreas.
  • Hives, itching, inflammation of the skin, rash, redness of the skin, sensitivity to light, dry skin, flushing, sweating, hair loss.
  • Pain in the arms, shoulders, hips, knees or other joints, joint swelling, stiffness, muscle weakness.
  • Frequent urination including at night, abnormal kidney function including inflammation of the kidneys, urinary infection, sugar in the urine.
  • Decreased sexual appetite, impotence.
  • Swelling of the face, localised swelling (oedema), fever. Rare (may affect up to 1 in 1,000 people):
  • Hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), abnormal liver function tests. Very rare (may affect up to 1 in 10,000 people):
  • Acute respiratory distress (signs include severe shortness of breath, fever, weakness, and confusion). Not known (frequency cannot be estimated from the available data):
  • Flu-like symptoms,
  • Low levels of sodium in the blood (hyponatraemia),
  • Generally feeling unwell (malaise),
  • Skin and lip cancer (Non-melanoma skin cancer),
  • Unexplained muscle pain with dark (tea-coloured) urine (rhabdomyolisis),
  • Disturbed taste (dysgeusia),
  • Decrease in vision or pain in your eyes due to high pressure (possible signs of fluid accumulation in the vascular layer of the eye (choroidal effusion) or acute angle-closure glaucoma). Reporting of side effects If you get any side effects, talk to your doctor or pharmacist. This includes any possible side effects not listed in this leaflet. You can also report side effects directly via Yellow Card Scheme, Website: https://yellowcard.mhra.gov.uk/ or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store. By reporting side effects you can help provide more information on the safety of this medicine.

How to store it

Losartan Potassium/ Hydrochlorothiazide Keep this medicine out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use this medicine after the expiry date which is stated on the packaging after EXP. The expiry date refers to the last day of that month. Do not store above 30°C. Store in the original package in order to protect from moisture. HDPE tablet container: After first opening of the container, the product should be used within 100 days. Do not throw away any medicines via wastewater or household waste. Ask your pharmacist how to throw away medicines you no longer use. These measures will help protect the environment.

Contents of the pack and other information

What Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide contains

  • The active substances are losartan potassium and hydrochlorothiazide. Each film-coated tablet contains 100 mg losartan potassium, equivalent to 91.52 mg losartan and 25 mg hydrochlorothiazide.
  • The other ingredients are: pregelatinised maize starch, microcrystalline cellulose, lactose monohydrate and magnesium stearate in the tablet core and hypromellose, macrogol 4000, quinoline yellow (E104), talc and titanium dioxide (E171) in the film coating. See section 2 „Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide contains lactose".

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What Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide looks like and contents of the pack Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100 mg/25 mg: yellow, oval, slightly biconvex, film-coated tablets, tablet dimension 8 mm x 15 mm, thickness 5.1 – 6.1 mm. Tablets are supplied in cartons containing:

  • 7, 10, 14, 20, 28, 30, 50, 56, 60, 84, 90, 98 and 112 film-coated tablets, in Al/PVC/PVDC transparent blisters,
  • 100 film-coated tablets in white plastic tablet container with white tamper-evident screw closure. Not all pack sizes may be marketed. Marketing Authorisation Holder KRKA, d.d., Novo mesto, Šmarješka cesta 6, 8501 Novo mesto, Slovenia Manufacturers KRKA, d.d., Novo mesto, Šmarješka cesta 6, 8501 Novo mesto, Slovenia TAD Pharma GmbH, Heinz-Lohmann-Straße 5, 27472 Cuxhaven, Germany This leaflet was last revised in July 2023.

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Frequently asked questions about Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100/25 mg film-coated tablets

How do I take Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100/25 mg film-coated tablets?

Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100/25 mg film-coated tablets comes as tablet containing 25mg. Always follow the dose your doctor or pharmacist has given you, and read the leaflet that comes with the medicine.

What is the active substance in Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100/25 mg film-coated tablets?

The active substance in Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100/25 mg film-coated tablets is hydrochlorothiazide, losartan potassium.

Are there equivalent medicines to Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100/25 mg film-coated tablets?

Medicines with the same active substance, strength and form include: Cozaar – Comp 100/25mg Film-Coated Tablets. They are interchangeable only if your prescriber or pharmacist says so.

Where does this information come from?

This leaflet reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100/25 mg film-coated tablets, as published on the electronic medicines compendium (emc). The version printed inside your medicine’s packaging is the one that applies to you.

Can I get Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100/25 mg film-coated tablets without a prescription?

Whether a medicine is available over the counter or on prescription only depends on its licence. Check the leaflet, or ask your pharmacist — they can tell you straight away.

About this leaflet

The text above reproduces the patient information leaflet approved for this medicine, restructured for easier reading.

Medical disclaimer: This page is for information only and does not replace advice from your doctor or pharmacist. Always read the leaflet supplied with your medicine. If you are unwell, call NHS 111; in an emergency, call 999.

Medicines with the same active substance: Hydrochlorothiazide, losartan potassium (10 medicines), Losartan potassium (37 medicines)
See every medicine containing this substance, or browse the full A–Z of active substances.
⚕For healthcare professionals — Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC)Full SmPC: dosage, interactions, contraindications, warnings+
Technical information intended for healthcare professionals (doctors and pharmacists). The Summary of Product Characteristics (SmPC) is the official document approved by the MHRA/EMA. It does not replace the patient leaflet or a doctor’s advice.

4.1. Therapeutic indications

Treatment of essential hypertension in patients, whose blood pressure cannot be adequately controlled by losartan or hydrochlorothiazide alone.

4.2. Posology and method of administration

Hypertension

Losartan and hydrochlorothiazide is not for use as initial therapy, but in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by losartan potassium or hydrochlorothiazide alone.

Dose titration with the individual components (losartan and hydrochlorothiazide) is recommended.

When clinically appropriate direct change from monotherapy to the fixed combination may be considered in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled.

The usual maintenance dose of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide is one tablet of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg/12.5 mg (losartan 50 mg/HCTZ 12.5 mg) once daily. For patients who do not respond adequately to Losartan

Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 50 mg/12.5 mg, the dosage may be increased to one tablet of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100 mg/25 mg (losartan 100 mg/ HCTZ 25 mg) once daily. The maximum dose is one tablet of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100 mg/25 mg once daily. In general, the antihypertensive effect is attained within three to four weeks after initiation of therapy. Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide 100/12.5 (losartan 100 mg/ HCTZ 12.5 mg) is available for those patients titrated to 100 mg of losartan who require additional blood pressure control.

Use in patients with renal impairment and haemodialysis patients

No initial dosage adjustment is necessary in patients with moderate renal impairment (i.e. creatinine clearance 30-50 ml/min). Losartan and hydrochlorothiazide tablets are not recommended for haemodialysis patients.

Losartan/HCTZ tablets must not be used in patients with severe renal impairment (i.e. creatinine clearance <30 ml/min) (see section 4.3).

Use in patients with hepatic impairment

Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment (see section 4.3.).

Use in patients with intravascular volume depletion

Volume and /or sodium depletion should be corrected prior to administration of Losartan/HCTZ tablets.

Older people

Dosage adjustment is not usually necessary for the elderly.

Paediatric population

There is no experience in children and adolescents (< 18 years). Therefore, losartan/hydrochlorothiazide should not be administered to children and adolescents.

Method of administration

Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide may be administered with other antihypertensive agents (see sections 4.3, 4.4, 4.5 and 5.1).

Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide tablets should be swallowed with a glass of water. Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide may be administered with or without food.

4.3. Contraindications

- Hypersensitivity to the active substance, to sulphonamide-derived substances (as hydrochlorothiazide) or to any of the excipients listed in section 6.1.

- Therapy resistant hypokalaemia or hypercalcaemia.

- Severe hepatic impairment; cholestasis and biliary obstructive disorders.

- Refractory hyponatraemia.

- Symtomatic hyperuricaemia/gout.

- 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy (see section 4.4 and 4.6).

- Severe renal impairment (i.e. creatinine clearance < 30 ml/min).

- Anuria.

- The concomitant use of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide with aliskirencontaining products is contraindicated in patients with diabetes mellitus or renal impairment (GFR < 60 ml/min/1.73 m2) (see sections 4.5 and 5.1).

4.4. Special warnings and precautions for use

Losartan

Angiooedema

Patients with a history of angiooedema (swelling of the face, lips, throat, and/or tongue) should be closely monitored (see section 4.8).

Hypotension and Intravascular volume depletion

Symptomatic hypotension, especially after the first dose, may occur in patients who are volume and/or sodium-depleted by vigorous diuretic therapy, dietary salt restriction, diarrhoea or vomiting.

Such conditions should be corrected before the administration of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide (see sections 4.2. and 4.3.).

Electrolyte imbalances

Electrolyte imbalances are common in patients with renal impairment, with or without diabetes, and should be addressed. Therefore, the plasma concentrations of potassium and creatinine clearance values should be closely monitored; especially patients with heart failure and a creatinine clearance between 30-50 ml/ min should be closely monitored.

The concomitant use of potassium sparing diuretics, potassium supplements and potassium containing salt substitutes with losartan/ hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended (see section 4.5).

Liver function impairment

Based on pharmacokinetic data which demonstrate significantly increased plasma concentrations of losartan in cirrhotic patients, Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide should be used with caution in patients with a history of mild to moderate hepatic impairment. There is no therapeutic experience with losartan in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Therefore Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment (see sections 4.2, 4.3 and 5.2).

Renal function impairment

As a consequence of inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, changes in renal function, including renal failure, have been reported (in particular, in patients whose renal function is dependent on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, such as those with severe cardiac insufficiency or pre-existing renal dysfunction). As with other drugs that affect the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, increases in blood urea and serum creatinine have also been reported in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis or stenosis of the artery to a solitary kidney; these changes in renal function may be reversible upon discontinuation of therapy. Losartan should be used with caution in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis or stenosis of the artery to a solitary kidney.

Renal transplantation

There is no experience in patients with recent kidney transplantation.

Primary hyperaldosteronism

Patients with primary aldosteronism generally will not respond to antihypertensive drugs acting through inhibition of the renin-angiotensin system. Therefore, the use of Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended.

Coronary heart disease and cerebrovascular disease:

As with any antihypertensive agents, excessive blood pressure decrease in patients with ischaemic cardiovascular and cerebrovascular disease could result in a myocardial infarction or stroke.

Heart failure:

In patients with heart failure, with or without renal impairment, there is - as with other drugs acting on the renin-angiotensin system - a risk of severe arterial hypotension, and (often acute) renal impairment.

Aortic and mitral valve stenosis, obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyophathy As with other vasodilators, special caution is indicated in patients suffering from aortic or mitral stenosis, or obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy.

Ethnic differences

As observed for angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors, losartan and the other angiotensin antagonists are apparently less effective in lowering blood pressure in black people than in nonblacks, possibly because of higher prevalence of low-renin states in the black hypertensive population.

Pregnancy

AIIRAs should not be initiated during pregnancy. Unless continued AIIRA therapy is considered essential, patients planning pregnancy should be changed to alternative anti-hypertensive treatments which have an established safety profile for use in pregnancy. When pregnancy is diagnosed, treatment with AIIRAs should be stopped immediately, and, if appropriate, alternative therapy should be started (see sections 4.3 and 4.6).

Dual blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS)

There is evidence that the concomitant use of ACE-inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers or aliskiren increases the risk of hypotension, hyperkalaemia and decreased renal function (including acute renal failure). Dual blockade of RAAS through the combined use of ACE-inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers or aliskiren is therefore not recommended (see sections 4.5 and 5.1).

If dual blockade therapy is considered absolutely necessary, this should only occur under specialist supervision and subject to frequent close monitoring of renal function, electrolytes and blood pressure.

ACE-inhibitors and angiotensin II receptor blockers should not be used concomitantly in patients with diabetic nephropathy.

Hydrochlorothiazide

Hypotension and electrolyte/fluid imbalance

As with all antihypertensive therapy, symptomatic hypotension may occur in some patients. Patients should be observed for clinical signs of fluid or electrolyte imbalance, e.g., volume depletion, hyponatremia, hypochloremic alkalosis, hypomagnesemia or hypokalemia which may occur during intercurrent diarrhea or vomiting. Periodic determination of serum electrolytes should be performed at appropriate intervals in such patients. Dilutional hyponatraemia may occur in oedematous patients in hot weather.

Metabolic and endocrine effects

Thiazide therapy may impair glucose tolerance. Dosage adjustment of antidiabetic agents, including insulin, may be required (see section 4.5). Latent diabetes mellitus may become manifest during thiazide therapy.

Thiazides may decrease urinary calcium excretion and may cause intermittent and slight elevation of serum calcium. Marked hypercalcemia may be evidence of hidden hyperparathyroidism. Thiazides should be discontinued before carrying out tests for parathyroid function.

Increases in cholesterol and triglyceride levels may be associated with thiazide diuretic therapy.

Thiazide therapy may precipitate hyperuricemia and/or gout in certain patients. Because losartan decreases uric acid, losartan in combination with hydrochlorothiazide attenuates the diuretic-induced hyperuricemia.

Hepatic impairment

Thiazides should be used with caution in patients with impaired hepatic function or progressive liver disease, as it may cause intrahepatic cholestasis, and since minor alterations of fluid and electrolyte balance may precipitate hepatic coma. Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide is contraindicated for patients with severe hepatic impairment (see section 4.3 and 5.2).

In patients receiving thiazides, hypersensitivity reactions may occur with or without a history of allergy or bronchial asthma. Exacerbations or activation of systemic lupus erythematosus was reported after the use of thiazides.

Non-melanoma skin cancer

An increased risk of non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC) [basal cell carcinoma (BCC) and squamous cell carcinoma (SCC)] with increasing cumulative dose of hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) exposure has been observed in two epidemiological studies based on the Danish National Cancer Registry. Photosensitizing actions of HCTZ could act as a possible mechanism for NMSC.

Patients taking HCTZ should be informed of the risk of NMSC and advised to regularly check their skin for any new lesions and promptly report any suspicious skin lesions. Possible preventive measures such as limited exposure to sunlight and UV rays and, in case of exposure, adequate protection should be advised to the patients in order to minimize the risk of skin cancer. Suspicious skin lesions should be promptly examined potentially including histological examinations of biopsies. The use of HCTZ may also need to be reconsidered in patients who have experienced previous NMSC (see also section 4.8).

Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide contains lactose. Patients with rare hereditary problems of galactose intolerance, total lactase deficiency or glucosegalactose malabsorption should not take this medicine.

4.5. Interaction with other medicinal products and other forms of interaction

Losartan

Rifampicin and fluconazole have been reportedto lower levels of active metabolites. The clinical consequences of these interactions have not been evaluated.

As with other drugs that block angiotensin II or its effects, concomitant use of potassiumsparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene, amiloride), potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium, or other drugs that may increase serum potassium (e.g., trimethoprim-containing products) may lead to increases in serum potassium. Co-medication is not advisable.

As with other medicines which affect the excretion of sodium, lithium excretion may be reduced.

Therefore, serum lithium levels should be monitored carefully if lithium salts are to be coadministered with angiotensin II receptor antagonists.

When angiotensin II antagonists are administered simultaneously with NSAIDs (i.e. selective COX-2 inhibitors, acetylsalicylic acid at anti-inflammatory doses) and non-selective NSAIDs, attenuation of the antihypertensive effect may occur. Concomitant use of angiotensin II antagonists or diuretics and NSAIDs may lead to an increased risk of worsening of renal function, including possible acute renal failure, and an increase in serum potassium, especially in patients with poor pre-existing renal function. The combination should be administered with caution, especially in the elderly. Patients should be adequately hydrated and consideration should be given to monitoring renal function after initiation of concomitant therapy, and periodically thereafter.

In some patients with compromised renal function who are being treated with non-steroidal antiinflammatory drugs, including selective cyclooxygenase-2 inhibitors, the coadministration of angiotensin II receptor antagonists may result in a further deterioration of renal function. These effects are usually reversible.

Clinical trial data has shown that dual blockade of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone-system (RAAS) through the combined use of ACE-inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers or aliskiren is associated with a higher frequency of adverse events such as hypotension, hyperkalaemia and decreased renal function (including acute renal failure) compared to the use of a single RAAS-acting agent (see sections 4.3, 4.4 and 5.1).

Other substances inducing hypotension like tricyclic antidepressants, antipsychotics, baclofene, amifostine: Concomitant use with these drugs that lower blood pressure, as main or side-effect, may increase the risk of hypotension.

Hydrochlorothiazide

When given concurrently, the following drugs may interact with thiazide diuretics:

Alcohol, barbiturates, narcotics or antidepressants:

Potentiation of orthostatic hypotension may occur.

Antidiabetic drugs (oral agents and insulin):

The treatment with a thiazide may influence the glucose tolerance. Dosage adjustment of the antidiabetic drug may be required. Metformin should be used with caution because of the risk of lactic acidosis induced by possible functional renal failure linked to hydrochlorothiazide.

Other antihypertensive drugs Additive effect.

Cholestyramine and colestipol resins:

Absorption of hydrochlorothiazide is impaired in the presence of anionic exchange resins. Single doses of either cholestyramine or colestipol resins bind the hydrochlorothiazide and reduce its absorption from the gastrointestinal tract by up to 85 and 43 percent, respectively.

Corticosteroids, ACTH

Intensified electrolyte depletion, particularly hypokalemia.

Pressor amines (e.g., adrenaline)

Possible decreased response to pressor amines but not sufficient to preclude their use.

Skeletal muscle relaxants, nondepolarizing (e.g., tubocurarine) Possible increased responsiveness to the muscle relaxant.

Lithium

Diuretic agents reduce the renal clearance of lithium and add a high risk of lithium toxicity; concomitant use is not recommended.

Medicinal products used in the treatment of gout (probenecid, sulfinpyrazone and allopurinol)

Dosage adjustment of uricosuric medicinal products may be necessary since hydrochlorothiazide may raise the level of serum uric acid. Increase in dosage of probenecid or sulfinpyrazone may be necessary. Coadministration of a thiazide may increase the incidence of hypersensitivity reactions to allopurinol.

Anticholinergic agents (e.g. atropine, biperiden)

Increase of the bioavailability to thiazide-type diuretics by decreasing gastrointestinal motility and stomach emptying rate.

Cytotoxic agents (eg cyclophosphamide, methotrexate)

Thiazides may reduce the renal excretion of cytotoxic medicinal products and potentiate their myelosuppressive effects.

Salicylates

In case of high dosages of salicylates hydrochlorothiazide may enhance the toxic effect of the salicylates on the central nervous system.

Methyldopa

There have been isolated reports of haemolytic anaemia occurring with concomitant use of hydrochlorothiazide and methyldopa.

Cyclosporine

Concomitant treatment with cyclosporine may increase the risk of hyperuricaemia and gouttype complications.

Digitalis glycosides

Thiazide-induced hypokalaemia or hypomagnesaemia may favour the onset of digitalisinduced cardiac arrhythmias.

Medicinal products affected by serum potassium disturbances Periodic monitoring of serum potassium and ECG is recommended when losartan/hydrochlorothiazide is administered with medicinal products affected by serum potassium disturbances (e.g. digitalis glycosides and antiarrhythmics) and with the following torsades de pointes(ventricular tachycardia)-inducing medicinal products (including some antiarrhythmics), hypokalaemia being a predisposing factor to torsades de pointes (ventricular tachycardia):

- Class Ia antiarrythmics (eg quinidine, hydroquinidine, disopyramide).

- Class III antiarrythmics (eg amiodarone, sotalol, dofetilide, ibutilide).

- Some antipsychotics (eg thioridazine, chlorpromazine, levomepromazine, trifluoperazine, cyamemazine, sulpiride, sultopride, amisulpride, tiapride, pimozide, haloperidol, droperidol).

- Others (eg bepridil, cisapride, diphemanil, erythromycin IV, halofantrin, mizolastine, pentamidine, terfenadine, vincamine IV).

Calcium salts

Thiazide diuretics may increase serum calcium levels due to decreased excretion. If calcium supplements must be prescribed, serum calcium levels should be monitored and calcium dosage should be adjusted accordingly.

Laboratory Test Interactions

Because of their effects on calcium metabolism, thiazides may interfere with tests for parathyroid function (see section 4.4).

Carbamazepine

Risk of symptomatic hyponatremia. Clinical and biological monitoring is required.

Iodine Contrast Media

In case of diuretic-induced dehydration, there is an increased risk of acute renal failure, especially with high doses of the iodine product.

Patients should be rehydrated before the administration.

Amphotericin B (parenteral), corticosteroids, ACTH, stimulant laxatives or glycyrrhizin (found in liquorice)

Hydrochlorothiazide may intensify electrolyte imbalance, particularly hypokalaemia.

4.6. Fertility, pregnancy and lactation

Pregnancy

Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists (AIIRAs):

The use of AIIRAs is not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy (see section 4.4). The use of AIIRAs is contra-indicated during the 2nd and 3rd trimester of pregnancy (see section 4.3 and 4.4)

Epidemiological evidence regarding the risk of teratogenicity following exposure to ACE inhibitors during the first trimester of pregnancy has not been conclusive; however a small increase in risk cannot be excluded. Whilst there is no controlled epidemiological data on the risk with Angiotensin II Receptor Inhibitors (AIIRAs), similar risks may exist for this class of drugs. Unless continued AIIRAs therapy is considered essential, patients planning pregnancy should be changed to alternative antihypertensive treatments which have an established safety profile for use in pregnancy. When pregnancy is diagnosed, treatment with Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide should be stopped immediately and, if appropriate, alternative therapy should be started.

Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide therapy exposure during the second and third trimesters is known to induce human fetotoxicity (decreased renal function, oligohydramnios, skull ossification retardation) and neonatal toxicity (renal failure, hypotension, hyperkalaemia) (see also 5.3 'Preclinical safety data').

Should exposure to Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide have occurred from the second trimester of pregnancy, ultrasound check of renal function and skull is recommended. Infants whose mothers have taken Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide should be closely observed for hypotension (see also section 4.3 and 4.4).

Hydrochlorothiazide:

There is limited experience with hydrochlorothiazide during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Animal studies are insufficient.

Hydrochlorothiazide crosses the placenta. Based on the pharmacological mechanism of action of hydrochlorothiazide its use during the second and third trimester may compromise foetoplacental perfusion and may cause foetal and neonatal effects like icterus, disturbance of electrolyte balance and thrombocytopenia.

Hydrochlorothiazide should not be used for gestational oedema, gestational hypertension or preeclampsia due to the risk of decreased plasma volume and placental hypoperfusion, without a beneficial effect on the course of the disease.

Hydrochlorothiazide should not be used for essential hypertension in pregnant women except in rare situations where no other treatment could be used.

Breastfeeding

Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists (AIIRAs):

Because no information is available regarding the use of Losartan

Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide during breastfeeding, Losartan

Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended and alternative treatments with better established safety profiles during breast-feeding are preferable, especially while nursing a newborn or preterm infant.

Hydrochlorothiazide:

Hydrochlorothiazide is excreted in human milk in small amounts. Thiazides in high doses causing intense diuresis can inhibit the milk production. The use of Losartan

Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide during breast feeding is not recommended. If Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide is used during breast feeding, doses should be kept as low as possible.

4.7. Effects on ability to drive and use machines

No studies on the reactions on the ability to drive and use machines have been performed. However, when driving vehicles or operating machinery it must be borne in mind that dizziness or drowsiness may occasionally occur when taking antihypertensive therapy, in particular during initiation of treatment or when the dose is increased.

4.8. Undesirable effects

The adverse reactions below are classified where appropriate by system organ class and frequency according to the following convention:

Very common: ≥1/10

Common: ≥1/100, <1/10

Uncommon: ≥1/1,000, ≤1/100

Rare: ≥1/10,000, ≤1/1,000

Very rare: ≤ 1/10,000

Not known: cannot be estimated from the available data

In clinical trials with losartan potassium salt and hydrochlorothiazide, no adverse reactions peculiar to this combination of substances were observed.

The adverse reactions were restricted to those which were formerly observed with losartan potassium and/or hydrochlorothiazide.

In controlled clinical trials of essential hypertension, dizziness was the only adverse reaction reported as substance-related that occurred with an incidence greater than placebo in 1% or more of patients treated with losartan and hydrochlorothiazide.

Next to these effects, there are further adverse reactions reported after the introduction of the product to the market as follows:

System organ class

Adverse reaction

Frequency

Hepato-biliary disorders

Hepatitis

rare

Investigations

Hyperkalaemia, elevation of ALT

rare

The adverse reactions that have been seen with one of the individual components and may be potential adverse reactions with losartan potassium/hydrocholorthiazide are the following:

Losartan

The following adverse reactions have been reported for losartan in clinical studies and in postmarketing experience:

System organ class

Adverse reaction

Frequency

Blood and lymphatic system disorders

anaemia, Henoch-Schönlein purpura, ecchymosis, haemolysis

uncommon

Cardiac disorders

hypotension, orthostatic hypotension, sternalgia, angina pectoris, grade II-AV block, cerebrovascular event, myocardial infarction, palpitation, arrhythmias (atrial fibrillations, sinus bradycardia, tachycardia, ventricular tachycardia, ventricular fibrillation)

uncommon

Ear and labyrinth disorders

vertigo, tinnitus

uncommon

Eye disorders

blurred vision, burning/stinging in the eye, conjunctivitis, decrease in visual acuity

uncommon

Gastrointestinal disorders

abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, dyspepsia

common

constipation, dental pain, dry mouth, flatulence, gastritis, vomiting

uncommon

pancreatitis

not known

General disorders and administration site conditions

asthenia, fatigue, chest pain

common

facial oedema, oedema, fever

uncommon

Hepatobiliary disorders

liver function abnormalities

not known

Immune system disorders

anaphylactic reactions, angioedema, urticaria

rare

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

anorexia, gout

uncommon

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders

muscle cramp, back pain, leg pain, myalgia

common

arm pain, hip pain, joint swelling, knee pain, musculoskeletal pain, shoulder pain, stiffness, arthralgia, arthritis, coxalgia, fibromyalgia, muscle weakness

uncommon

rhabdomyolysis

not known

Nervous system disorders

headache, dizziness

common

nervousness, paraesthesia, peripheral neuropathy, tremor, migraine, syncope

uncommon

dysgeusia

not known

Psychiatric disorders

insomnia

common

anxiety, anxiety disorder, panic disorder, confusion, depression, abnormal dreams, sleep disorder, somnolence, memory impairment

uncommon

Renal and urinary disorders

nocturia, urinary frequency, urinary tract infection

uncommon

Reproductive system and breast disorders

decreased libido, impotence

uncommon

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

cough, upper respiratory infection, nasal congestion, sinusitis, sinus disorder

common

pharyngeal discomfort, pharyngitis, laryngitis, dyspnoea, bronchitis, epistaxis, rhinitis, respiratory congestion

uncommon

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

alopecia, dermatitis, dry skin, erythema, flushing, photosensitivity, pruritus, rash, urticaria, sweating

uncommon

Vascular disorders

vasculitis

uncommon

dose-related orthostatic effects

not known

Investigations

hyperkalaemia, mild reduction of haematocrit and haemoglobin

common

mild increase in urea and creatinine serum levels

uncommon

increase in hepatic enzymes and

very rare

bilirubin

Hydrochlorothiazide

System organ class

Adverse reaction

Frequency

Neoplasms benign, malignant and unspecified (incl cysts and polyps)

Non-melanoma skin cancer

(Basal cell carcinoma and Squamous cell carcinoma)1

not known

Blood and lymphatic system disorders

Agranulocytosis, aplastic anaemia, haemolytic anaemia, leukopenia, purpura, thrombocytopenia

uncommon

Immune system disorders

Anaphylactic reaction

rare

Metabolism and nutrition disorders

Anorexia, hyperglycaemia, hyperuricaemia, hypokalaemia, hyponatraemia

uncommon

Psychiatric disorders

Insomnia

uncommon

Nervous system disorders

Cephalalgia

common

Eye disorders

Transient blurred vision, xanthopsia

uncommon

Vascular disorders

Necrotizing angiitis (vasculitis, cutaneous vasculitis)

uncommon

Respiratory, thoracic and mediastinal disorders

Respiratory distress including pneumonitis and pulmonary oedema

uncommon

Gastrointestinal disorders

Sialoadenitis, spasms, stomach irritation, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, constipation

uncommon

Hepato-biliary disorders

Icterus (intrahepatic cholestatis), pancreatitis

uncommon

Skin and subcutaneous tissue disorders

Photosensitivity, urticaria, toxic epidermal necrolysis

uncommon

Cutaneous lupus erythematosus

not known

Musculoskeletal and connective tissue disorders

Muscle cramps

uncommon

Renal and urinary disorders

Glycosuria, interstitial nephritis, renal dysfunction, renal failure

uncommon

General disorders and administration site conditions

Fever, dizziness

uncommon

1 -Non-melanoma skin cancer: Based on available data from epidemiological studies, cumulative dosedependent association between HCTZ and NMSC has been observed (see also sections 4.4 and 5.1).

Reporting of suspected adverse reactions

Reporting suspected adverse reactions after authorisation of the medicinal product is important. It allows continued monitoring of the benefit/risk balance of the medicinal product. Healthcare professionals are asked to report any suspected adverse reactions via Yellow Card Scheme,

Website: www.mhra.gov.uk/yellowcard or search for MHRA Yellow Card in the Google Play or Apple App Store.

4.9. Overdose

No specific information is available on the treatment of overdosage with Losartan

Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide. Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Therapy with Losartan Potassium/Hydrochlorothiazide should be discontinued and the patient observed closely. Suggested measures include induction of emesis if ingestion is recent, and correction of dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, hepatic coma and hypotension by established procedures.

Losartan

Limited data are available in regard to overdosage in humans. The most likely manifestation of overdosage would be hypotension and tachycardia; bradycardia could occur from parasympathetic (vagal) stimulation. If symptomatic hypotension should occur, supportive treatment should be instituted.

Neither losartan nor the active metabolite can be removed by hemodialysis.

Hydrochlorothiazide

The most common signs and symptoms observed are those caused by electrolyte depletion (hypokalemia, hypochloremia, hyponatremia) and dehydration resulting from excessive diuresis. If digitalis has also been administered, hypokalemia may accentuate cardiac arrhythmias.

The degree to which hydrochlorothiazide is removed by hemodialysis has not been established.

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