Hypertension, more commonly known as high blood pressure is the silent killer of the modern era. Being a symptomless condition, it can often go undiagnosed for a long period of time until the possible occurrence of a primary cardiovascular event. Alive Pharmaceuticals provide a vast range of anti-hypertensive medications including the combination product Amlodipine and Losartan. It is a calcium channel blocker alongside an angiotensin II receptor blocker and this medication is prescribed for the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension.
Calcium Channel Blocker
These drugs lower hypertension by preventing the influx of calcium ions into the heart and surrounding blood vessels. These drugs are often found in combination therapies in order to maximise the blood pressure lowering effect. Since their discovery, CCB’s have been one of the most widely prescribed agents for the treatment of hypertension. Amlodipine is an example of a dihydropyridine CCB. They reduce blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessel walls, thus dilating the arteries allowing for a greater blood flow. Calcium channel antagonists have shown to be effective at reducing the risk of stroke and ischaemic heart disease due to their anti-hypertensive effect.
Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker
Losartan was the first Angiotensin II receptor blocker to be identified and marketed. It is present in the salt form, Losartan potassium. Administration of this drug results in a decrease in Total Peripheral Resistance (TPR) and cardiac venous return. Angiotensin is a chemical produced by angiotensin converting enzyme and attaches to receptors based primarily on smooth muscle cells of blood vessels. This binding mechanism causes vasoconstriction of the blood vessels thereby leading to increased blood pressure. In an antagonistic fashion, Losartan blocks this angiotensin receptor resulting in vasodilation and relaxation of the blood vessels, thus lowering blood pressure.
As Losartan has the possibility to cause hyperkalemia, potassium supplements or potassium containing salt substitutes should be avoided unless under direct supervision of a doctor.
As described above, both of the drugs in this combination product by Alive Pharmaceuticals lower blood pressure by different mechanisms therefore can be taken in the same tablet formulation. According to a study carried out by the Archives of Pharmacal Research in 2009 on murine models, it was found that the combined use of Amlodipine and Losartan was more effective at reducing blood pressure compared with monotherapy. Therefore this medication provided by Alive Pharmaceuticals can provide significant anti-hypertensive benefits compared with the single drug.
Alive Pharmaceuticalsprovides this medication in following strengths:
1. Losartan Potassium 50mg, Amlodipine 5mg
The usual starting and maintenance dose of Losartan Potassium is 50 mg once daily for most patients. For Amlodipine, the initial dose is 5mg once daily which may be increased to 10 mg depending on the patient’s response. This medication can be taken with or without food.
Alive Pharmaceuticals provide a wide range of products to aid in the management of heart health. Please visit www.alivenepal.com
It is important to always consult your doctor before commencing new medication or if you notice any unusual side effects.
