Medically reviewed by Austin Ulrich, PharmD
Key Takeaways
- Losartan is a prescription medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and protect kidney function in people with diabetes.
- The generic version contains the same active ingredients as brand-name Cozaar but typically costs significantly less.
- Prescription discount programs like the Super+ RX coupon can help you save money on losartan and other prescriptions.
Price Comparison
Understanding the cost difference between the brand name medication and the generic alternative is the first step toward sustainable savings. The following table illustrates the estimated price difference you may encounter at the pharmacy counter.
| Medication Name | Estimated Average Retail Price | Estimated Super+ RX Member Price |
| Losartan (Tablets, Generic) | ~$15.00 – $45.00 | ~$9.00 – $20.00 |
| Cozaar (Tablets, Brand) | ~$200.00 – $250.00 | ~$90.00 – $120.00 |
| Arbli (Oral Liquid, Brand) | ~$1,000.00 – $1,200.00 | ~$590.00 – $640.00 |
What Is Losartan?
Losartan is a widely prescribed medication belonging to a class of treatments known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). It is FDA-approved to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), reduce the risk of stroke in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy (enlargement of the heart walls), and treat diabetic nephropathy (kidney disease) in people with type 2 diabetes and a history of hypertension.
How Losartan Works
To understand how this medication helps regulate blood pressure, it is helpful to understand the body’s renin-angiotensin system. Angiotensin II is a natural substance in the body that causes blood vessels to narrow and tighten. When these vessels constrict, the heart must work harder to pump blood through them, which raises blood pressure.
Losartan works by blocking the action of angiotensin II. By preventing this substance from binding to receptors on the blood vessels, the medication allows the vessels to relax and widen. This relaxation lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow, reducing the workload on the heart. For patients with type 2 diabetes, this mechanism also helps protect the kidneys from damage caused by high pressure within the kidney’s filtration structure.
Brand vs. Generic Options
The brand-name version of losartan tablets is called Cozaar. The patent for Cozaar has expired, allowing other pharmaceutical manufacturers to produce the generic version, known simply as losartan. Another brand name product called Arbli (losartan oral solution) is also available, and there is not currently a generic version.
According to the FDA, generic medications must have the same active ingredients, strength, dosage form, and route of administration as the brand-name product. They are held to the same rigorous quality standards. The primary difference is often the price, with the generic version offering a more affordable path to treatment.
How to Save on Your Losartan Prescription
Here are several practical ways you can save money if you need a prescription for losartan — whether you have insurance or not:
- Use a prescription discount card or coupon like Super+ RX: The Super+ RX coupon uncovers discounts to help lower out-of-pocket costs for losartan. Whether it’s losartan or another medication, we want to help you save—because your well-being comes first.
- Check multiple pharmacies — cash prices can vary. Pharmacies in the same area sometimes charge different prices for the same medication. Comparing cash prices among pharmacies can help you find the cheapest option. Search for your prescription on Super.com/rx, compare prices across pharmacies, and find discounts near you.
- Consider asking for the generic form, not the brand-name form. The generic version of losartan is often much cheaper than the brand-name version, Cozaar, and works the same.
What you can do before you go to the pharmacy:
- Use a discount program like the Super+ RX coupon — print it or bring it on your phone — and ask the pharmacist or cashier to apply it to your prescription.
- Compare at least two or three pharmacies on Super.com/rx to see who offers the lowest price.
- If you are uninsured or if you have a high copay, ask your healthcare team about patient-assistance programs or reduced-cost clinics in your area.
Ready to save on losartan? Compare prices for losartan at pharmacies near you and start lowering your medication costs.
Losartan Dosage and Administration
Taking this medication correctly is essential for it to work effectively. A healthcare professional will determine the appropriate dosage based on your specific medical condition and response to treatment.
Common Dosages
Losartan oral tablets are typically available in three strengths:
- 25 mg
- 50 mg
- 100 mg
The usual starting dose for treating high blood pressure in adults is often 50 mg taken once daily. Depending on how your blood pressure responds, a healthcare professional may increase the dose to 100 mg taken once daily.
Administration Guidelines
You can take losartan with or without food. However, it is important to maintain consistency. If you choose to take it with breakfast, try to do so every day. Establishing a routine helps ensure you do not miss a dose, which keeps the levels of the medication steady in your body for optimal blood pressure control.
- Missed Dose: If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one.
- Storage: Keep the tablets at room temperature, away from excess moisture and heat. Do not store them in the bathroom, as humidity can affect the stability of the medication.
Side Effects of Losartan
Like all medications, losartan may cause side effects in some people. While many people take this medication without experiencing significant issues, being aware of potential reactions allows you to monitor your health effectively.
Common Side Effects
These side effects are generally mild and may subside as your body adjusts to the medication. If they persist or become bothersome, discuss them with a healthcare professional.
- Dizziness or Lightheadedness: This is one of the most frequently reported side effects, often caused by a drop in blood pressure. It may happen when you stand up quickly from a sitting or lying down position.
- Upper Respiratory Infections: Some people report symptoms similar to a cold, such as a stuffy nose, sneezing, or sore throat.
- Back Pain: Muscle pain or back discomfort has been noted in clinical studies.
- Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or lacking energy can occur, especially when starting treatment.
Serious Side Effects
Although rare, some side effects require immediate attention. If you experience any of the following, contact a healthcare professional right away:
- High Potassium Levels (Hyperkalemia): Losartan can cause potassium levels in the blood to rise. Symptoms may include a slow or irregular heartbeat and muscle weakness. Your healthcare professional will monitor your potassium levels regularly while you’re taking losartan.
- Kidney Problems: Signs of kidney issues may include a change in the amount of urine produced, swelling in the feet or ankles, or unexplained shortness of breath.
- Allergic Reactions: Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
Managing Dizziness
Because dizziness is a common reaction, especially when first starting the medication or increasing the dose, it is advisable to rise slowly when getting up from a chair or bed. This gives your body time to adjust to the change in position and blood pressure.
Interactions and Precautions
Certain substances, foods, and other medications can interact with losartan, potentially altering how it works or increasing the risk of side effects. Transparency with your healthcare professional about everything you take is vital for your safety.
Drug Interactions
- Lithium: Taking Losartan with lithium may decrease the body’s ability to remove lithium, leading to increased lithium levels and worse side effects.
- NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): Common pain relievers like ibuprofen and naproxen can reduce the blood-pressure-lowering effect of losartan. Additionally, using NSAIDs alongside losartan may increase the risk of kidney dysfunction, particularly in older adults or those who are dehydrated.
- Potassium Supplements and Salt Substitutes: Because losartan can increase potassium levels in the blood, taking additional potassium supplements or using salt substitutes containing potassium can lead to dangerously high levels (hyperkalemia).
- Other Blood Pressure Medications: Combining losartan with other medications that lower blood pressure (such as diuretics or ACE inhibitors) can cause blood pressure to drop too low (hypotension).
Medical Considerations
- Pregnancy: Losartan can cause serious harm or death to the developing fetus if taken during the second or third trimester. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your healthcare professional immediately.
- Liver or Kidney History: Individuals with a history of liver or kidney disease may require dose adjustments or more frequent monitoring.
- Dehydration: Losing too much body water through sweating, vomiting, or diarrhea can lead to a severe drop in blood pressure when taking this medication.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the most common side effect of losartan?
It depends, but dizziness is considered one of the most common side effects. It often occurs when the body is adjusting to lower blood pressure levels or when standing up too quickly.
Why is losartan sometimes taken at night?
Some research suggests that taking blood pressure medication at night may better control blood pressure during sleep and the early morning hours, which are critical times for heart health. However, the best time to take it is whenever you can consistently remember it. Consult your healthcare professional for personalized timing advice.
Can losartan cause a cough?
While a persistent dry cough is a well-known side effect of angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors (a different class of blood pressure medication), it is much less common with ARBs like losartan. However, if you develop a cough that does not go away, mention it to your healthcare professional.
What should I avoid eating or drinking while taking losartan?
You should generally avoid potassium-rich salt substitutes and be cautious with high-potassium foods (like bananas or avocados) if your healthcare professional has advised you to monitor potassium intake. Alcohol can also increase the blood-pressure-lowering effect of losartan, which may increase dizziness or drowsiness.
Is there a difference between losartan and losartan potassium?
No. Losartan is the generic name for the active ingredient. “Losartan potassium” is the full chemical name used on the prescription label. They refer to the same medication.
Will I be on losartan for life?
High blood pressure is often a chronic condition that requires long-term management. Many people take losartan or similar medications indefinitely to protect their heart and kidneys. However, lifestyle changes such as weight loss, improved diet, and exercise may sometimes reduce the need for medication. Never stop taking the medication without guidance from a healthcare professional.
Can losartan damage your kidneys?
In most cases, Losartan is prescribed to protect the kidneys, particularly in diabetic patients. However, in rare instances—especially if you are dehydrated or taking other medications like NSAIDs—it can stress kidney function. Regular blood tests are typically used to monitor kidney health during treatment.
References
Arbli. Prescribing information. Scienture LLC, 2025. Accessed February 17, 2026. https://nctr-crs.fda.gov/fdalabel/services/spl/set-ids/afd2d1ba-e7af-4e4e-8b7e-a9f72612fc97/spl-doc
Losartan potassium tablet, film coated. Prescribing information. RemedyRepack Inc., 2026. Accessed February 17, 2026. https://nctr-crs.fda.gov/fdalabel/services/spl/set-ids/df4f55f0-fb11-4f6f-a7ed-127b50f955fc/spl-doc
Mulla S, Patel P, Siddiqui WJ. Losartan. StatPearls. February 26, 2024. Accessed February 17, 2026. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK526065/
Patel P, Launico MV. Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARB). StatPearls. May 5, 2025. Accessed February 17, 2026. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK537027/
Zhang XJ, Yan Y, Liu YJ, et al. The effect of evening vs. morning medication on morning blood pressure surge. Sci Rep. 2026;16(1):5405. doi:10.1038/s41598-025-34118-9
Disclaimer:
Generative AI was used in the development of this content. All information in this article has been reviewed by our highly-trained clinicians. We do not provide medical advice. Please, consult a physician.
