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== Losartan ==
'''Losartan''' (pronounced loe-SAR-tan) is a medication used primarily to treat [[high blood pressure]] and [[heart failure]]. It is also used to lower the risk of stroke in certain people with heart disease. Losartan is in a class of drugs known as [[angiotensin II receptor antagonists]]. It works by blocking the action of certain natural substances that tighten the blood vessels, allowing the blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently.

=== Etymology ===
The name "Losartan" is derived from its chemical name, which is 2-butyl-4-chloro-1-[[p-tolylmethyl]]-5-imidazolecarboxylic acid, 5-methoxy-3-oxo-3,4-dihydro-2H-1,4-benzoxazin-6-yl ester. The "Los" part of the name is derived from the Los Angeles-based pharmaceutical company that first developed the drug, [[Merck & Co.]], and "artan" is a common suffix for angiotensin II receptor antagonists.

=== Related Terms ===
* [[Angiotensin II receptor antagonists]]: A class of drugs that includes Losartan. These drugs block the action of angiotensin II, a chemical in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten and narrow.
* [[High blood pressure]]: A condition that Losartan is often used to treat. High blood pressure, or hypertension, occurs when the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high.
* [[Heart failure]]: A chronic condition in which the heart doesn't pump blood as well as it should. Losartan is used to manage this condition.
* [[Stroke]]: A medical emergency that occurs when blood flow to a part of the brain is interrupted. Losartan is used to lower the risk of stroke in certain people with heart disease.

[[Category:Medicine]]
[[Category:Pharmacology]]
[[Category:Cardiology]]

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