Change of medication

[Pie1948]

I had a severe hypertensive episode in May & was admitted to hospital. I was discharged 2 days later with ramapril and amlodipine. I have had a horrid tickly cough since I was on the ramapril & GP has now prescribed losartan but my BP is creeping up a bit although I’m only on day 3 of the losartan. I also have asthma, so I cough anyway.

Any advice would be appreciated. I’m waiting for an outpatient appointment at the hospital. I’m told it will be months away.

[lettingoffsteam]

The same thing happened to me last March...same meds as well.Mine was at 244/133 and I'd never had meds before. I had loads of side effects but thankfully my cough wasn't too bad and eventually they died down.Give losartan a chance for a few weeks.I know it can be really scary that your blood pressure will zoom up again but you are on meds so tell yourself that you'll be OK.Have you got your own bp machine?Keep an eye but try to keep calm about it if you can.I'm sure if your numbers creep up you can get in touch with your GP.A year on I've managed to halve my dose through losing weight and exercise.You will get through this.

[Pie1948]

Thank you for your reassuring reply. I do have a BP machine and generally it is now well controlled since being on the meds. I will persevere with the losartan! I walked a lot before lockdown - about 3 miles a day with the dog but didn’t do as much at the beginning of lockdown. I’m increasing it again now. I think COVID made me very anxious & that was a factor in my hospital admission. Thanks again.

[Ropa511]

Losartan is def one of the better medications in terms of side effects....far better than amlodipine in my experience.

But like all medications it may take a few weeks to settle in to.

Other than that try and get some exercise, eat healthy, and not worry too much. Good luck!

[onadiet in reply to Ropa511]

I have had same fears due to covid unable to walk about much. I am now on Ibersartin. I found that Amlopidine Ramipril all had similar side effects.Anxiety is my worst thing to control. I get night time anxiety and my bp goes up. Vicious circle. Beta Blocker had worst side effect of all. Hated Bisopnarol . Anxiety went sky high.

[Pie1948]

Thank you. You are right. Worry is not good! I am walking more now too now lockdown has eased a bit.

[onadiet]

It may take a few weeks brfore you feel full effects so give it time