SUMMARY:

Hyzaar is the brand name for the combination of losartan and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ). It comes as a tablet in several strengths (losartan/HCTZ): 100 mg/25 mg, 100 mg/12.5 mg, and 50 mg/12.5 mg. The indications are for hypertension and for the prevention of stroke. Dosing is generally initiated at 50 mg/12.5 mg PO qd but if the patient has severe hypertension it is initiated at higher strengths. There is a Black Box Warning for fetal toxicity and the medication should not be used or discontinued immediately if pregnancy is detected or suspected. The most common side effects are dizziness, cough, and dyspepsia. The serious side effects are renal failure, acute angle-closure glaucoma, and non-melanoma skin cancer.