Summary of
Interactions with Vitamins, Herbs, and Foods
In some cases, an herb or supplement may appear in more than one category, which may seem
contradictory. For clarification, read the full article for details about the summarized
interactions.
 Check: Other—Before taking any of these supplements
or eating any of these foods with your medication, read this article in full for details. |
Potassium
|
| Depletion or interference |
None known
|
| Side effect reduction/prevention |
None known
|
| Supportive interaction |
None known
|
| Reduced drug
absorption/bioavailability |
None known
|
| Adverse interaction |
None known
|
An asterisk (*) next to an item in the summary indicates that the
interaction is supported only by weak, fragmentary, and/or contradictory scientific
evidence.
Interactions with Dietary Supplements
Potassium
Losartan has caused significant increases in blood potassium levels.1 Potassium
supplements, potassium-containing salt substitutes (No Salt®, Morton Salt
Substitute®, and others), and even high-potassium foods (primarily fruit) should be avoided by those taking losartan, unless
directed otherwise by their doctor.
Interactions with Foods and Other Compounds
Food
The intestinal absorption of losartan may be reduced up to 10% if taken with food.2
Although this is a minor reduction, losartan should be taken an hour before or two hours after
food for maximum effectiveness.
References
1. Perazella MA. Drug-induced hyperkalemia: Old culprits and new
offenders. Am J Med 2000;109:307–14 [review].
2. Sifton DW, ed. Physicians Desk Reference. Montvale, NJ:
Medical Economics Company, Inc., 2000, 1769–72.
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Medicines with Vitamins and Herbs
The information presented in Healthnotes is for informational
purposes only. It is based on scientific studies (human, animal, or in vitro),
clinical experience, or traditional usage as cited in each article. The results reported may
not necessarily occur in all individuals. For many of the conditions discussed, treatment with
prescription or over-the-counter medication is also available. Consult your doctor,
practitioner, and/or pharmacist for any health problem and before using any supplements or
before making any changes in prescribed medications. Information expires December 2005.