Losartan is a medication primarily used to manage high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. It also plays a role in treating heart failure and protecting the kidneys in individuals with type 2 diabetes. Like many prescription drugs, Losartan can lead to various side effects, and this article will explore diarrhea as a possible reaction to this medication.
Is Diarrhea a Side Effect of Losartan?
Diarrhea can indeed be a side effect of Losartan, though it is not one of the most frequently reported adverse reactions. Clinical data indicates that diarrhea occurs in approximately 1% to 10% of patients taking Losartan. For many, if experienced, this side effect is often mild and may improve as the body adjusts to the medication over time.
Why Losartan Might Cause Diarrhea
The exact reasons why Losartan can lead to diarrhea are not fully understood, but potential mechanisms relate to its impact on the body’s systems, particularly the renin-angiotensin system. Losartan works by blocking angiotensin II receptors, which helps relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. Some research suggests that Losartan may influence gastrointestinal motility, meaning how quickly food moves through the digestive tract.
Studies show that Losartan can affect the tone of intestinal smooth muscles, potentially interfering with pathways that control gut movement. This modulation of smooth muscle activity could contribute to changes in bowel function, including diarrhea. In rare instances, Losartan has been associated with a condition called sprue-like enteropathy, which involves severe, chronic diarrhea and weight loss, and resolves upon discontinuation of the medication.
What to Do If You Experience Diarrhea
If you experience diarrhea while taking Losartan, consult your healthcare provider. Stay well-hydrated by drinking clear fluids like water, clear broths, and oral rehydration solutions to replace lost fluids and electrolytes. Eat a bland diet, which includes foods like bananas, rice, applesauce, and toast (often referred to as the BRAT diet). Avoiding foods that might irritate your digestive system, such as spicy, fatty, or high-fiber foods, as well as dairy products, is also advisable.
Contact your healthcare provider if diarrhea persists for more than two days, becomes severe, or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms. Seek medical advice for:
- Signs of dehydration, such as decreased urination, dark urine, excessive thirst, dry mouth, dizziness, or lightheadedness.
- Blood or mucus in your stool.
- Severe abdominal pain.
- A fever above 102°F (39°C).
Do not stop taking Losartan without first speaking to your doctor, as abrupt discontinuation can have adverse health consequences.
Other Common Losartan Side Effects
Beyond diarrhea, Losartan can cause a range of other side effects that are generally more common. These often include dizziness, which can occur due to the medication’s blood pressure-lowering effects. Other frequently reported side effects include fatigue, headache, and upper respiratory tract infections, such as the common cold. Some individuals may also experience back pain, muscle cramps, or a cough, though the incidence of cough is lower compared to other similar medications.