Losartan

Pronunciation

Definition 1

A drug used to treat high blood pressure. Losartan blocks the action of chemicals that make blood vessels constrict (get narrower). It is a type of angiotensin II receptor antagonist. Also called Cozaar and losartan potassium. (NCI Dictionary)

Definition 2

The potassium salt form of losartan, a non-peptide angiotensin II antagonist with antihypertensive activity. Losartan potassium selectively and competitively blocks the binding of angiotensin II to the angiotensin I (AT1) receptor. Angiotensin II, formed from angiotensin I by angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), stimulates the adrenal cortex to synthesize and secrete aldosterone, which decreases the excretion of sodium and increases the excretion of potassium. Angiotensin II also acts as a vasoconstrictor in vascular smooth muscle. Losartan potassium, by blocking the binding of angiotensin II to the AT 1 receptor, promotes vasodilatation and decreases the effects of aldosterone. (NCI Thesaurus)

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