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Valsartan |
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What is Valsartan and why is it prescribed? Valsartan is a blood pressure medication. Valsartan works by preventing the hormone angiotensin II from narrowing the blood vessels, which tends to raise blood pressure. Valsartan may be prescribed alone or with other blood pressure medications, such as diuretics that help the body get rid of excess water. Valsartan also has a stimulative effect on the heart and is prescribed for heart failure in patients who can't tolerate another type of medication called ACE inhibitors. You must take Valsartan regularly for it to be effective. Valsartan does not cure high blood pressure but it keeps it under control. How should you take Valsartan? Follow your doctors directions for taking Valsartan. Valsartan can be taken with or without food. Try to get in the habit of taking the medicine at the same time each day. If you miss a dose take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Store Valsartan at room temperature. Keep in a tightly closed container, away from moisture. Are there any Valsartan side effects? Valsartan side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Valsartan side effects may include abdominal pain, allergic reactions, back pain, blurred vision, cough, diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, fatigue, headache, joint pain, low blood pressure, nausea, runny nose, sinus inflammation, sore throat, swelling, swollen mouth and throat, upper respiratory infections, vertigo, and viral infections. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Valsartan? If Valsartan is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. Check with your doctor before combining Valsartan with salt substitutes that contain potassium, or with diuretics that leave potassium in the body, including Amiloride (Midamor), Spironolactone (Aldactone), and Triamterene (Dyrenium). Are there any special warnings about Valsartan? In rare cases, Valsartan can cause a severe drop in blood pressure. The problem is more likely if your body's supply of water has been depleted by high doses of diuretics. Symptoms include light-headedness or faintness, and are more likely when you first start taking the drug. If you have liver or kidney disease, Valsartan must be used with caution. Be sure the doctor is aware of either problem. Also let the doctor know if you suffer from gout or diabetes. The safety and effectiveness of Valsartan has not been studied in children. |
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