Can I take Alogliptin and Losartan together?

Why this happens

Alogliptin helps lower blood sugar, and some blood pressure medications like losartan can occasionally enhance this effect. Additionally, both drugs can affect a system in the body that regulates swelling, which may rarely lead to an allergic-type reaction.

What you should do

It is generally safe to take these together, but you should monitor your blood sugar levels more closely, especially when starting or changing doses. Seek immediate medical help if you notice any swelling of the face, lips, or tongue, or if you have difficulty breathing.

Important precautions

Pregnancy

You must not take losartan if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, as it can cause serious harm or death to an unborn baby, particularly in the second and third trimesters.

Pancreatitis

Stop taking alogliptin and seek immediate medical help if you experience severe and persistent stomach pain, which may reach through to your back, as this can be a sign of an inflamed pancreas (pancreatitis).

High potassium levels (Hyperkalaemia)

Avoid using salt substitutes containing potassium or taking potassium supplements while on losartan, as it can cause dangerously high levels of potassium in your blood.

Food and drink warnings

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol while taking losartan can increase the blood-pressure-lowering effect of the medicine. This may make you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint, especially when standing up. It is best to keep your alcohol intake within recommended limits and be cautious until you know how the medicine affects you.

Salt substitutes and high-potassium foods

Losartan can increase the levels of potassium in your blood. Using salt substitutes (which often contain potassium chloride) or consuming very large amounts of potassium-rich foods (such as bananas or leafy greens) may lead to dangerously high potassium levels (hyperkalaemia). You do not need to avoid these foods entirely, but you should avoid using potassium-based salt substitutes.

Using other medicines

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.