What is the most important information I should know about Cozaar?

Do not take Cozaar if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, Cozaar can cause injury and even death of the developing fetus. Notify your doctor immediately if you think you might be pregnant.

Use caution when driving, operating machinery or performing other hazardous activities. Cozaar may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.

Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking Cozaar.

What is Cozaar?

Cozaar is in a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Cozaar prevents the constriction (narrowing) of blood vessels (veins and arteries).

Cozaar is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to reduce the risk of stroke.

Cozaar may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.

What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking Cozaar?

Before taking Cozaar, tell your doctor if you

have liver disease;

have kidney disease;

are on a salt-restricted diet or have high levels of potassium in the blood; or

are taking a potassium supplement (e.g., K-Dur, Klor-Con, others), or a potassium-sparing diuretic such as amiloride (Midamor), triamterene (Dyrenium, Dyazide, Maxzide), or spironolactone (Aldactone).

You may not be able to take Cozaar, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.

Cozaar is in the FDA pregnancy category D. This means that it is known to be harmful to an unborn baby. When used during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy, Cozaar can cause injury and even death of the developing fetus. Do not take Cozaar if you are pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.

It is not known whether Cozaar passes into breast milk. Do not take Cozaar without talking to your doctor first if you are breast-feeding a baby.

How should I take Cozaar?

Take Cozaar exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse or doctor to explain them to you.

Each dose should be taken with a full glass (8 ounces) of water.

Cozaar can be taken with or without food.

It is important to take Cozaar regularly to get the most benefit.

Your doctor may want you to have blood pressure checks, blood tests, or other medical evaluations during treatment with Cozaar to monitor progress and side effects.

Do not stop taking Cozaar without talking to your doctor first. If you stop taking the medication, your condition could become much worse.

Store Cozaar at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

What happens if I miss a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

What happens if I overdose?

Seek emergency medical attention if an overdose is suspected.

Symptoms of a Cozaar overdose are not well known but might include dizziness, weakness, fainting, and fatigue.

What should I avoid while taking Cozaar?

Use caution when driving, operating machinery or performing other hazardous activities. Cozaar may cause dizziness or drowsiness. If you experience dizziness or drowsiness, avoid these activities. Also use caution when rising from a sitting or lying position.

Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may further lower blood pressure and increase drowsiness and dizziness while taking Cozaar.

Do not use salt substitutes or take potassium supplements without talking to your doctor first. Cozaar can affect potassium levels in the body.

What are the possible side effects of Cozaar?

If you experience any of the following serious side effects, stop taking Cozaar and contact your doctor immediately or seek emergency medical treatment.

an allergic reaction (difficulty breathing; closing of the throat; swelling of the lips, tongue, or face; or hives); or

little or no urine.

Other side effects are less serious. Continue to take Cozaar and talk to your doctor if you experience

diarrhea or upset stomach,

muscle pain or cramps,

dizziness, or

insomnia.

Side effects other than those listed here may also occur. Talk to your doctor about any side effect that seems unusual or that is especially bothersome.

What other drugs will affect Cozaar?

Before taking Cozaar, tell your doctor if you

take a potassium supplement such as K-Dur, Klor-Con, and others;

take a potassium-sparing diuretic (water pill) such as amiloride (Midamor), spironolactone (Aldactone), or triamterene (Dyrenium, Dyazide, Maxzide); or

use a salt substitute.

Cozaar can affect potassium levels in the body. You may not be able to take Cozaar, or you may require a dosage adjustment or special monitoring if you are taking any of the medicines listed above.

Tell your doctor about any other medicines you take to treat high blood pressure or other heart conditions. Cozaar may cause very low blood pressure if it is taken with other heart medications.

Drugs other than those listed here may also interact with Cozaar or affect your condition. Talk to your doctor and pharmacist before taking any prescription or over-the-counter medicines, including herbal products.