What kind of medication is losartan?

Losartan is classified as an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), which is specifically designed to manage hypertension and related cardiovascular conditions. It works by selectively blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure. By inhibiting this action, losartan helps to relax blood vessels, thereby lowering blood pressure and reducing the workload on the heart.

This mechanism is important in the treatment of conditions such as hypertension, heart failure, and to offer renal protection in patients with diabetes. Unlike calcium channel blockers, thiazide diuretics, or beta-agonists, which have different mechanisms of action and clinical applications, the role of losartan as an ARB is pivotal in the management of high blood pressure and offers benefits in cardiovascular health without the side effects that may be associated with other classes of antihypertensive medications.