Valsartan

Valsartan is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). It is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack. Valsartan works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a substance that causes blood vessels to tighten, thereby relaxing blood vessels and lowering blood pressure.

Indications

Hypertension: Valsartan is used to treat high blood pressure, helping to prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems

Dosage

For hypertension in adults, the typical starting dose is 80 mg once daily, which can be adjusted based on individual response up to 320 mg per day. In pediatric patients (6 to 16 years), the starting dose may be 1.3 mg/kg once daily. For heart failure, the usual starting dose is 40 mg twice daily, which may be increased up to 160 mg twice daily based on tolerance and response. For post-myocardial infarction, the starting dose is usually 20 mg twice daily, increasing to 160 mg twice daily based on tolerance.

Contra-Indications

Pregnant women (especially during the second and third trimesters) due to the risk of harm to the fetus. Patients with severe liver dysfunction, particularly those with cholestasis, and severe renal dysfunction.

Special Precautions

Pregnancy: Valsartan can cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman, particularly during the second and third trimesters. Renal function: Valsartan may cause a deterioration in renal function, including renal failure, particularly in patients with pre-existing kidney problems. Electrolyte imbalances: Monitor potassium levels, as valsartan may increase the risk of hyperkalemia.

Side Effects

Headache, dizziness, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, allergic reactions.

Drug Interactions

No clinically significant pharmacokinetic interactions were observed when Diovan (valsartan) was coadministered with amlodipine, atenolol, cimetidine, digoxin, furosemide, glyburide, hydrochlorothiazide, or indomethacin. The valsartan-atenolol combination was more antihypertensive than either component, but it did not lower the heart rate more than atenolol alone. Coadministration of valsartan and warfarin did not change the pharmacokinetics of valsartan or the timecourse of the anticoagulant