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Losartan

Prescription
Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB)
Last reviewed 19 Apr 2026 · PetCare.AI Editorial Team
Species
Dog
Brands
3 available
Interactions
2 documented
Formulations
2

Mechanism of action

Selectively blocks angiotensin II AT1 receptors, reducing vasoconstriction, aldosterone release, and blood pressure; provides renoprotective effects

At a glance

Class
Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB)
Schedule
Prescription
Storage
Store below 25°C, protect from moisture

Dosing

🐕

Dog

Proteinuria / Hypertension (ACE inhibitor alternative)
Dose
0.125–0.5 mg/kg
Route
PO
Frequency
SID to BID
Max dose
25 mg/dose; 50 mg/day
Duration: Long-term
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Formulations

💊

Tablet — 2

Strength
25mg
Available in India
Strength
50mg
Available in India

Storage

Store below 25°C, protect from moisture

Safety

Absolute contraindications — do not use

  • Known hypersensitivity

Use with caution

  • Concurrent ACE inhibitor use
    Increased hypotension and hyperkalemia risk

Adverse effects

Common
Mild hypotension
Inappetence
Serious
Hyperkalemia
Acute renal injury

Monitoring parameters

Blood pressureBUN/CreatinineSerum potassium
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Interactions

Major — 2

Benazepril
major
Dual RAAS blockade (ARB + ACE inhibitor) increases risk of hyperkalemia, hypotension, and acute kidney injury
Management: Generally avoid. If combined for refractory proteinuria, monitor renal values and potassium closely.
Spironolactone
major
Both cause potassium retention; combined use significantly increases hyperkalemia risk
Management: Monitor serum potassium frequently. Consider alternative diuretic if ARB is required.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

Brands

International

Cozaar
MSD

India

Losar
Unichem
Losacar
Cadila

FAQs

Frequently asked questions

What is Losartan?
Losartan is a angiotensin ii receptor blocker (arb) used in pets. Selectively blocks angiotensin II AT1 receptors, reducing vasoconstriction, aldosterone release, and blood pressure; provides renoprotective effects
What is Losartan used for in pets?
Losartan is used in veterinary medicine for: Proteinuria / Hypertension (ACE inhibitor alternative).
What is the Losartan dose for dogs?
For dogs, Losartan is typically dosed as follows — Proteinuria / Hypertension (ACE inhibitor alternative): 0.125–0.5 mg/kg PO SID to BID. Always consult your veterinarian for a dose tailored to your pet's weight, age, and condition.
What are the side effects of Losartan?
Common: Mild hypotension, Inappetence. Serious (call your vet immediately): Hyperkalemia, Acute renal injury.
Does Losartan need a prescription?
Yes. Losartan is a prescription medication and should only be administered under veterinary supervision.
When should Losartan not be used?
Do not use Losartan if: Known hypersensitivity.
Educational reference only
This information is provided for educational purposes and is not a substitute for professional veterinary advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified veterinarian before administering any medication to your pet. Find a vet near you →

References

References

The PetCare.AI drug reference is built from 13 authoritative sources cited across 580 drug monographs.

Textbooks & handbooks — 5

  • Plumb's Veterinary Drug Handbook
  • Withrow & MacEwen's Small Animal Clinical Oncology
  • Merck Veterinary Manual
  • NRC Nutrient Requirements of Dogs and Cats
  • Veterinary Pharmacology and Therapeutics (Riviere & Papich)

Clinical guidelines & consensus — 4

  • ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center Guidelines
  • AAHA Diabetes Management Guidelines
  • ASPCA Poison Control Guidelines
  • RECOVER CPR Guidelines

Journals & peer-reviewed studies — 2

  • EPIC Study (J Vet Intern Med 2016)
  • JVIM FAT CAT Study

Regulatory & approvals — 1

  • CDSCO Veterinary Drug Approval Registry (1969–2026)

Databases — 1

  • Washington State University VCPL MDR1 Database

Related medicines

Other medicines in the same class (Angiotensin II receptor blocker).

Irbesartan
Rx
Selectively blocks angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors, preventing angiotensin II-mediated vasoconstriction, aldosterone secretion, and cardiac/renal remodeling. Unlike ACE inhibitors, does not cause bradykinin accumulation (no cough).
dogcat
Telmisartan
Rx
Selectively blocks angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptors, reducing vasoconstriction, aldosterone secretion, and sympathetic activity; provides renoprotective effects by reducing glomerular pressure
catdog
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