If you’re on losartan (which you might know as Cozaar), you’ve probably heard about the potential risk of this medication raising your blood potassium levels, especially when combined with other factors. While it’s usually straightforward to steer clear of other medications that can affect potassium, figuring out which foods to avoid can be a bit trickier—especially when it comes to popular potassium-rich options like bananas. So, let’s dive into what you should know about taking losartan and your banana intake.

What is Losartan? 

Well, losartan is the chemical name for a medication that you might know better as Cozaar. It falls into a category of drugs known as angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) and has the green light from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for treating high blood pressure (hypertension), reducing the risk of strokes, and addressing kidney issues related to diabetes.

Interestingly, it can also be prescribed off-label after someone has a heart attack, especially for those dealing with heart failure who can’t handle ACE inhibitors, as well as for treating non-diabetic kidney disease. You can find losartan in both its generic form, losartan potassium tablets, and under the brand name Cozaar. The tablets come in various strengths: 25 mg, 50 mg, and 100 mg.

How Does Losartan Work?

Angiotensin II receptor blockers, or ARBs, such as losartan, function by preventing angiotensin II—a hormone—from attaching to its receptors. Angiotensin II is responsible for narrowing blood vessels, which raises blood pressure. By blocking its action, ARBs help keep blood vessels relaxed, leading to lower blood pressure levels. With wider blood vessels, the heart doesn’t have to exert as much effort to circulate blood, which contributes to a decrease in overall blood pressure.

Additionally, losartan and other ARBs boost urine production, which helps reduce water and sodium retention. When there’s less fluid in the body, the heart can work more efficiently, further lowering blood pressure. This process also offers protection to the kidneys, especially in individuals with diabetes.  

You can expect losartan to start working within about 6 hours after taking it. For most people, its effects last around 24 hours, but they might extend longer for older adults or those with liver or kidney issues.

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Side Effects of Losartan

For those dealing with high blood pressure, losartan can bring about some common side effects like:

• Dizziness 

• Stuffy Nose 

• Back Pain 

If you have type 2 diabetes and are using losartan to help with kidney issues, you might also experience chest pain, diarrhea, elevated potassium levels, low blood pressure, low blood sugar, and fatigue.

While it’s not as common, there’s a chance that individuals with existing kidney problems could see a decline in kidney function while on losartan. If you notice any swelling in your hands, feet, or ankles, or if you experience sudden, unexplained weight gain, it’s important to reach out to your healthcare provider right away.

Pregnant women should steer clear of losartan. If you discover that you’re pregnant, it’s crucial to stop taking this medication. Using losartan during the second or third trimesters can pose serious risks to the fetus, including potential injury or even death. If you find yourself pregnant while on this medication, consult your healthcare provider to explore safer options for managing your blood pressure during pregnancy.

Can You Eat Bananas While Taking Losartan?

Losartan and other medications can sometimes cause side effects that lead to increased potassium levels in the body. Potassium is an essential mineral that helps maintain fluid balance. However, having too much or too little potassium can create serious health issues. Since losartan works to eliminate excess fluids, it can cause potassium levels to rise. For individuals with healthy kidneys or those who follow a low-potassium diet, this might not pose a problem.

But for people with kidney issues related to type 2 diabetes, or those at high risk of developing such complications, it’s crucial to stick to your healthcare provider’s advice on maintaining a low-potassium, heart-healthy, and kidney-friendly diet.

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What Does The Research Say?

Whether you need to limit potassium-rich foods like bananas depends on your kidney health, medical history, and any other medications or supplements you might be taking. Make sure to discuss your medications and any risk factors with your doctor. Patients with existing kidney issues, such as chronic kidney disease or type 2 diabetes, are more susceptible to high potassium levels. This condition is known as hyperkalemia.

Symptoms can vary from mild to severe, and in extreme cases, hyperkalemia can be life-threatening. Certain medications can heighten the risk of hyperkalemia when taken alongside losartan, including:

• Potassium-sparing diuretics
• NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) like ibuprofen, aspirin, and naproxen

The research on how much high-potassium foods contribute to the risk of hyperkalemia isn’t entirely clear. Ultimately, it depends on your dietary potassium intake, as well as any potassium from supplements, including multivitamins. Keep in mind that many salt substitutes also contain potassium. Patients with kidney-related risk factors should be cautious if they’re getting potassium from multiple sources or if they’re taking several medications that help the body retain potassium.

Go Bananas—But Maybe Just Half a Peel!

While bananas are a fantastic source of nutrients and make for a delicious snack, it’s important to enjoy them in moderation if you’re on losartan. This medication can increase potassium levels in your blood, and since bananas are naturally high in potassium, eating too many could upset the balance and lead to health issues like an irregular heartbeat or muscle weakness. 

The good news is that you don’t have to completely cut bananas out of your diet. Most people can safely indulge in them in moderation—as part of a potassium-conscious diet—especially if they’re not taking other potassium-boosting medications or supplements. Always check in with your doctor or pharmacist to customize your diet to fit your health needs. A little potassium is vital, but remember, too much of a good thing can be… well, not so appealing!