Does losartan make you tired
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Summary
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Some studies suggest losartan may cause fatigue due to changes in brain serotonin levels, while other studies indicate it can improve physical function and reduce fatigue in certain populations.
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Does Losartan Make You Tired?
Introduction to Losartan and Fatigue
Losartan is a commonly prescribed antihypertensive medication that functions as an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). While it is effective in managing high blood pressure, there is interest in understanding its potential side effects, particularly whether it can cause fatigue.
Central Fatigue and Neurotransmitter Interaction
Research indicates that losartan can influence central fatigue through its effects on brain neurotransmitters. A study involving rats demonstrated that blocking angiotensin II AT1 receptors with losartan increased serotonin (5-HT) levels in specific brain regions, such as the preoptic area and hypothalamus, which correlated with increased body heating rate and reduced time to fatigue during exercise. This suggests that losartan may induce central fatigue by altering the balance of serotonin and dopamine in the brain, leading to premature fatigue.
Clinical Observations in Older Adults
In a pilot study involving prefrail older adults, losartan treatment was associated with several side effects, including fatigue, hyperkalemia, and hypotension. Despite these side effects, the study also found that losartan improved physical function and reduced frailty scores. This dual outcome indicates that while losartan can cause fatigue, it may also have beneficial effects on physical performance in certain populations.
Fatigue in Cancer Patients
Fatigue is a common symptom among cancer patients, often exacerbated by muscle wasting and myocardial dysfunction. Research on animal models has shown that losartan can mitigate tumor-induced myocardial dysfunction and muscle wasting, which are significant contributors to fatigue in cancer patients. By improving myocardial function and reducing systemic inflammation, losartan may help alleviate some of the fatigue associated with cancer.
Conclusion
In summary, while losartan has been shown to cause fatigue in some cases, particularly through its effects on brain neurotransmitters and in clinical observations of older adults, it also has potential benefits in improving physical function and mitigating fatigue-related conditions in cancer patients. Therefore, the relationship between losartan and fatigue is complex and may vary depending on the individual and the context of its use.
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