Does Losartan block the receptor used by the Coronavirus? Medically reviewed by Carmen Fookes, BPharm Last updated on Mar 30, 2020. Official Answer by Drugs.com Losartan is not a receptor, but it does block a chemical (angiotensin II), from binding to a receptor, type 1 angiotensin 2 (AT1), which lowers blood pressure. Losartan does not block the virus causing COVID-19, called SARS-CoV-2, but it may reduce the activity of the renin-angiotensin system, which is overactive in people with high blood pressure, which may increase their risk of developing lung complications from COVID-19. Some animal studies found losartan beneficial at reducing...