Hyzaar is a combination of two medicines --
Cozaar® and
hydrochlorothiazide. Cozaar is a newer type of
blood pressure medicine known as an angiotensin II receptor blocker, or ARB for short. Cozaar blocks angiotensin II receptors, thus decreasing the effectiveness of a chemical known as angiotensin II, which normally causes blood vessels to narrow (constrict). By blocking the effects of angiotensin II, Cozaar causes blood vessels to relax.
Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic, which is commonly referred to as a "water pill." It works by increasing the amount of salt and water the kidneys remove from the blood. This extra salt and water is passed out through the urine. By increasing the amount of water removed from the blood, hydrochlorothiazide causes a decrease in blood volume.
Because of the effect of both Cozaar and hydrochlorothiazide, Hyzaar can
lower blood pressure. Because of its combined effects, Hyzaar causes a greater drop in
blood pressure than when either medicine is used alone.
Hyzaar has not been approved for use in children.
On occasion, a healthcare provider may recommend Hyzaar for treating a condition other than those listed above. This is called an "
off-label" use. At this time, there are no universally accepted off-label uses for Hyzaar.
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