What You Need to Know About Losartan Intolerance

If you're taking losartan for high blood pressure but feel off, you might be dealing with losartan intolerance. Simply put, it means your body reacts badly to the medication—think side effects that make you think twice about continuing. It's more common than you might expect and can include symptoms like dizziness, fatigue, or even a persistent cough.

Know this: losartan helps relax blood vessels to lower blood pressure, but not everyone handles it the same way. If you suspect intolerance, don't just stop the drug on your own. Talk to your doctor—there might be better options for you.

Common Signs and What to Watch For

Some people experience mild symptoms like headaches or lightheadedness, while others might get more serious issues such as swelling or changes in kidney function. A dry cough is a classic sign linked to many blood pressure meds, including losartan. If these symptoms stick around or worsen, that's a red flag.

Tracking your symptoms is helpful. Keep a simple journal noting when you take your medicine and any changes you feel. This info makes your doctor’s job easier and speeds up finding the right treatment plan for you.

Next Steps: Alternatives and Adjustments

If losartan just isn’t your friend, your healthcare provider may suggest alternatives like other types of blood pressure meds—think ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, or diuretics. Each works differently but aims for the same goal: keeping your blood pressure in check without side effects wrecking your day.

Sometimes, your doctor might adjust the dose or add supportive treatments to ease side effects. Lifestyle changes like cutting back on salt, regular exercise, and managing stress also play a big role and can reduce the need for stronger meds.

Bottom line? Losartan intolerance isn’t a dead end. With the right help, you can find a solution that works for your body and keeps your health on track.