Losartan for Cardiovascular Disease

This trial tests losartan, a medication, to determine if it can help individuals exposed to significant secondhand tobacco smoke avoid developing chronic lung problems. The study compares losartan with a placebo (a harmless pill with no active drug) to measure effects on heart and lung health. Participants will alternate between the placebo and losartan, allowing researchers to compare results. This trial may suit non-smokers or those who smoked minimally in the past and have worked in smoky environments, such as certain flight attendants or casino workers. As a Phase 4 trial, losartan is already FDA-approved and proven effective; this research aims to understand how it benefits more patients.

The trial requires that you do not currently use certain medications like ACE inhibitors, ARBs, NSAIDs regularly, or potassium supplements. If you are on these medications, you may need to stop them to participate.

Research shows that losartan is generally safe for people. The FDA has approved this drug, which is commonly used to treat high blood pressure and protect the kidneys. Studies have found that most people tolerate losartan well.

In clinical trials, side effects were usually mild. Some individuals might experience dizziness or a stuffy nose, but these effects are not serious and often resolve over time. Serious side effects are rare. Losartan has been used safely in many studies, including those focused on heart and kidney health.

Researchers are excited about Losartan for cardiovascular disease because it targets the angiotensin II receptor, which helps relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. Unlike many standard treatments that might focus on different pathways or involve complex combinations, Losartan's mechanism offers a direct approach to reducing strain on the heart. Additionally, its established safety profile from treating hypertension makes it a promising option for broader cardiovascular applications, potentially offering more tailored treatment strategies for patients.

Research has shown that losartan, an FDA-approved medication, can lower the risk of heart problems. In studies, losartan reduced heart-related issues by 25% compared to atenolol. It also alleviates symptoms like shortness of breath in people with heart failure. Losartan blocks certain signals that cause blood vessels to tighten, allowing them to relax and improve blood flow. In this trial, participants will receive either losartan or a placebo in different sequences to evaluate its effects. These benefits suggest that losartan might improve heart and lung function in people at risk of COPD from secondhand smoke exposure.⁴⁶⁷⁸⁹