Cozaar generic name
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Consensus Meter
Cozaar Generic Name: Losartan
Introduction to Losartan
Losartan, the generic name for Cozaar, is a medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is the first angiotensin II (AII) antagonist available for clinical use, designed specifically to counteract the cardiovascular effects of the hormone AII. Losartan is effective in reducing blood pressure and is comparable to other well-established agents such as amlodipine, enalapril, and atenolol.
Efficacy and Tolerability of Losartan
Losartan has been shown to be as effective as other antihypertensive medications in managing blood pressure in patients with hypertension. Additionally, it has additive effects when used in combination with hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic. One of the notable advantages of losartan over ACE inhibitors is that it does not cause a persistent cough, making it a well-tolerated option for many patients.
Quality Assessment of Generic Losartan
A study comparing the pharmaceutical quality of generic losartan potassium formulations with the brand-name product Cozaar revealed some concerns. The study assessed the active substance content, organic impurities, and elemental impurities in four generic formulations and the brand-name product. While organic impurities were not detected, and elemental impurities were within acceptable limits, three out of four generic products had a lower content of the active ingredient than the acceptable range (95% of the labeled amount). This discrepancy in active ingredient content could have clinical implications, especially for patients on long-term therapy.
International Trade and Generic Losartan
The international trade of generic losartan has also faced challenges. A notable incident involved the seizure of a shipment of generic losartan potassium by Dutch customs authorities, which led to a dispute between Brazil, India, and the European Union at the World Trade Organization (WTO). This incident highlighted the ongoing tension between ensuring access to affordable medications in poorer nations and the enforcement of intellectual property rights by wealthier countries.
Conclusion
Losartan, the generic name for Cozaar, is a widely used and effective medication for managing hypertension. While it is generally well-tolerated and effective, the quality of generic formulations can vary, which may impact clinical outcomes. Additionally, international trade issues can affect the availability of generic losartan in different regions. Ensuring the quality and accessibility of generic medications remains a critical concern for global health.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic