Started Taking Blood Pressure Medicine. Switched To Losartan. Throat Becomes Dry & Scratchy. How Long For Relief?

Posted on Fri, 19 Jul 2013

Question: Hi, I have had a chronic cough for several months right after I started on High blood pressure medicine- My doctor just switched me to Losartan 100 mg= however, whenever I try to eat my throat becomes dry & scratchy and the cough begins again- stopped eating all acidy and spicy foods, no coffee, sweets, white rice/bread as all of these make me nauseous and vomit. Doctor put me on lansoprazole 30 mg 2 weeks ago for possible acid reflux- no big changes. How long does this take to show signs of relief- As soon as I drink or eat anything- the cough starts up.
This ahs been happening since March 15

Answered by Dr. Ram Choudhary (38 minutes later)

Hi XXXXX,
Welcome to healthcare Magic!
The cough induced by blood pressure control medicines mainly the ACE Inhibitor group medicines are the cause. Your doctor has already switched you to ARB that is Losartan which does not cause cough.
It takes about two months for the cough to subside after you had the drug last.
Avoid the same drug in future.
I hope the advise would be informative and useful for you.
Take Care!

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Ram Choudhary (34 hours later)

Thank you- Would this cause acid reflux symptoms, can't seem to eat anything without coughing and then bringing up excessive mucus or any food eaten.
you response does make sense- I'll have to wait and see.
thank you again for your response.

Answered by Dr. Ram Choudhary (3 hours later)

Hi XXXXX,
Welcome back.
The blood pressure medicine or the cough per se would not cause
acid reflux problem but it will certainly aggravate.
The strains due to jerks caused by cough efforts affects
the food pipe capability to contain food and acid in stomach and may cause
excess regurgitation.
To cover for this period you should start treatment with rabeprazole and domperidone combination under the supervision and prescription of a local clinician.
I hope the advise would be helpful.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar

Follow up: Dr. Ram Choudhary (21 hours later)

hello Dr. C- thank you for the advice , I will contact my primary physician and discuss - Your explanations were very helpful.
thank you again.gailw

Answered by Dr. Ram Choudhary (7 hours later)

Hi XXXXX,
Welcome back to healthcare Magic!
I hope the advise will be useful for you and will lead to attainment of
good health.
I look forward to getting referals from your circle.
Take Care!

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Chakravarthy Mazumdar