Does Losartan block COVID-19 Coronavirus Receptors?
Losartan (Cozaar) does not directly block SARS-CoV-2 coronavirus receptors, but this angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), may influence COVID-19 outcomes through its effects on the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS). Losartan works by blocking angiotensin II from binding to angiotensin II type 1 receptors (AT1) in the heart, blood vessels, kidneys, and lungs, reducing the activity of RAAS, which lowers blood pressure and may modulate the inflammatory response.
Losartan appears safe to continue during COVID-19 infections for patients with established indications, but should not be started solely for coronavirus protection without proper medical evaluation.
How losartan works in relation to COVID-19:
- RAAS modulation: Losartan may reduce overactivity in the renin-angiotensin system, potentially decreasing lung inflammation and injury.
- Cardiovascular protection: ARBs like losartan may provide cardioprotective effects in COVID-19 patients with hypertension.
Clinical trial evidence: Losartan and COVID-19 outcomes
At the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, losartan attracted interest from the medical community because losartan was used in some preclinical studies to determine its effectiveness against the SARS virus that first appeared in 2002. Animal studies showed losartan reduced severe lung injury in mice exposed to SARS coronavirus and H5N1 influenza. SARS was also a coronavirus and is like SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. Subsequent research has reported:
- Losartan has anti-inflammatory effects and may decrease cytokine storm and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) risk
- Some population studies suggested ARB users had lower COVID-19 hospitalization rates compared to other antihypertensive medications.
References
- Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and angiotensin receptor blockers in COVID-19. CEBM March 23, 2020, https://www.cebm.net/covid-19/angiotensin-converting-enzyme-ace-inhibitors-and-angiotensin-receptor-blockers-in-covid-19/
- Antihypertensive drugs and risk of COVID-19? Tignanelli, Christopher J et al.
The Lancet Respiratory Medicine, Volume 8, Issue 5, e30 - e31. DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/S2213-2600(20)30153-3
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Drug information
- Losartan Information for Consumers
- Losartan prescribing info & package insert (for Health Professionals)
- Side Effects of Losartan (detailed)
- Losartan user reviews (581)
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