Can I take Empagliflozin and Losartan together?

Why this happens

Both medicines work in different ways to lower blood pressure and affect how your kidneys handle fluids and salts. Losartan helps relax blood vessels and can cause the body to keep hold of potassium. Empagliflozin is a 'water tablet' (diuretic) type of medicine that makes you lose more fluid through your urine. Together, they can cause you to lose too much fluid (dehydration) or put extra strain on the kidneys.

You can usually take these together, but your doctor should monitor your blood pressure and kidney function regularly through blood tests. Make sure you stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water. If you feel very dizzy, have a persistent headache, or feel unusually tired, contact your GP. Always stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position to avoid dizzy spells.

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. Use effective contraception while taking it.

Dehydration and Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

You must stop taking empagliflozin and seek urgent medical help if you become very unwell, lose your appetite, or have persistent vomiting/diarrhoea. This is to prevent a rare but serious condition called ketoacidosis, which can occur even if your blood sugar levels are normal.

Fournier’s gangrene - empagliflozin

Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling in the genital or anal area, accompanied by fever or a general feeling of being unwell.

Foot ulcers

Check your feet regularly and tell your doctor immediately if you develop any sores, ulcers, or infections, as empagliflozin may increase the risk of lower limb amputations if foot care is neglected.

Alcohol

It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol while taking these medicines. Both empagliflozin and losartan can lower your blood pressure; combining them with alcohol can cause your blood pressure to drop too low, leading to dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting. Additionally, alcohol can increase the risk of a serious condition called ketoacidosis when taking empagliflozin.

Water and fluids

It is essential to drink plenty of water and stay well-hydrated. Empagliflozin works by removing sugar through your urine, which increases the amount of fluid you lose. This can lead to dehydration and low blood pressure if you do not drink enough fluids.

Potassium-rich foods and salt substitutes

Losartan can increase the levels of potassium in your blood. You should avoid using salt substitutes that contain potassium (often labelled as 'low sodium' salts) and speak to your doctor before significantly increasing your intake of potassium-rich foods (such as bananas, spinach, or sweet potatoes), as high potassium levels can affect your heart rhythm.

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.