What is the lowest dosage of losartan
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Consensus Meter
Lowest Dosage of Losartan: Insights from Research Studies
Introduction to Losartan Dosage in Hypertension Treatment
Losartan, an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), is widely used to manage hypertension, heart failure, and renal diseases. Determining the optimal dosage is crucial for maximizing therapeutic benefits while minimizing adverse effects. This article synthesizes findings from multiple studies to identify the lowest effective dosage of losartan.
Losartan Dosage in Hypertensive Children
Dose-Response Study in Young Children
A study focusing on hypertensive children aged 6 months to 6 years evaluated the efficacy and safety of losartan at different dosages: 0.1 mg/kg, 0.3 mg/kg, and 0.7 mg/kg per day. The results indicated that even the lowest dose of 0.1 mg/kg per day significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure (SBP and DBP) without a clear dose-response relationship, suggesting that 0.1 mg/kg per day is effective and well-tolerated in this age group.
Dose-Response Study in Older Children
Another study involving hypertensive children aged 6 to 16 years assessed losartan dosages of 2.5/5.0 mg, 25/50 mg, and 50/100 mg. The findings demonstrated a dose-dependent reduction in DBP, with the lowest dose of 2.5/5.0 mg per day effectively lowering blood pressure. This study supports the use of a starting dose of 0.75 mg/kg (up to 50 mg) for effective blood pressure control in older children.
Losartan Dosage in Adults
Pharmacokinetic and Clinical Studies
Pharmacokinetic evaluations suggest that losartan is rapidly absorbed and converted to its active metabolite, EXP3174, which is more potent. The recommended starting dose for adults is typically 50 mg per day, with studies indicating that this dose is effective for most patients. However, some research suggests that higher doses, such as 100 mg per day, may provide additional benefits in certain populations .
High-Dose vs. Low-Dose Efficacy
The HEAAL study compared the effects of 50 mg and 150 mg of losartan in patients with heart failure. The results showed that the higher dose reduced the rate of death or hospitalization for heart failure more effectively than the lower dose, although it also increased the incidence of adverse events like renal impairment and hyperkalemia. This indicates that while higher doses may offer greater efficacy, they also come with increased risks.
Conclusion
The lowest effective dosage of losartan varies by age and condition. In hypertensive children, doses as low as 0.1 mg/kg per day are effective and well-tolerated. For adults, the standard starting dose is 50 mg per day, with the potential for increased efficacy at higher doses, albeit with a higher risk of adverse effects. These findings underscore the importance of individualized dosing to balance efficacy and safety.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic