Merc Sharp & Dohme

Chemical Name: LOSARTAN (loe-SAR-tan) and HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE (hye-droe-klor-oh-THYE-a-zide)

HYZAAR is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is also used to lower the risk of stroke in certain people with heart disease. This medication contains a combination of hydrochlorothiazide and losartan. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill) that helps prevent your body from absorbing too much salt, which can cause fluid retention. Losartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonists that keeps blood vessels from narrowing, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow.

Take HYZAAR exactly as prescribed by your doctor and follow the directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose to make sure you get the best results, but do not change your dosage without consulting your physician first.

Take HYZAAR with a full glass (8 ounces) of water. You can easily become dehydrated while taking this medication, which can lead to severely low blood pressure or a serious electrolyte imbalance. Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. Your kidney function may also need to be tested. Visit your doctor regularly.

Before you start HYZAAR, be sure to inform your doctor if you are allergic to hydrochlorothiazide or losartan, or any other chemicals contained in this medication. Also, inform your doctor if you are unable to urinate.

To make sure you can safely take HYZAAR, tell your doctor if you have any of the following conditions:

• kidney disease
• liver disease
• congestive heart failure
• glaucoma
• asthma
• low or high levels of potassium in your blood
• gout
• lupus
• diabetes
• an allergy to sulfa drugs or penicillin
• pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant

All medications may cause side effects, but usually patients have no, or minor, side effects.

Common side effects of BONIVA may include:

• stomach pain
• back pain
• dizziness, tired feeling
• skin rash
• runny or stuffy nose, sore throat
• dry cough

• eye pain/vision problems
• feeling light-headed/faintness
• swelling, rapid weight gain
• urinating less than usual, or not at all
• drowsiness or confusion
• mood changes
• increased thirst
• loss of appetite
• nausea/vomiting
• fast or pounding heartbeats
• pale skin, easy bruising or bleeding
• jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes)
• high potassium (slow heart rate, weak pulse, muscle weakness, tingly feeling)