Drug Name

Diovan (Valsartan)

Drug Uses

Diovan is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It is also prescribed after heart attacks since diovan may reduce death in patients who developed congestive heart failure after a heart attack. Diovan may also reduce hospitalizations in patients with congestive heart failure.

How to use

The usual dose of diovan in patients with high blood pressure is 80 to 160 mg once daily. The maximum dose is 320 mg daily. Maximum blood pressure reduction occurs within 4 weeks. For congestive heart failure, the usual dose is 40 mg twice daily. The doses may be increased to 80-160 mg twice daily. The initial dose after a heart attack is 20 mg twice daily. The dose should be increased with a target of 160 mg twice daily if tolerated without side effects.

Drug Class and Mechanism

The chemical name is a proper scientific name for an ingredient of a product. Chemical name of this medicine is VALSARTAN (read as: val-SAR-tan). Valsartan is an oral medication that belongs to a class of drugs, called angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs) . Other ARBs include irbesartan (Avapro), losartan (Cozaar), and candesartan (Atacand). Angiotensin, formed in the blood by the action of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE), is a powerful chemical that attaches to angiotensin receptors found in many tissues but primarily on smooth muscle cells of blood vessels. Angiotensin attachment to the receptors causes the blood vessels to narrow (vasoconstrict) which leads to an increase in blood pressure (hypertension). Valsartan blocks the angiotensin receptor. By blocking the action of angiotensin, valsartan dilates blood vessels and reduces blood pressure. Valsartan was approved by the FDA in December of 1996.

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. If you are taking 1 dose daily and do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.

Storage

Diovan should be stored at room temperature, 15-30 degrees C (59-86 degrees F).

Warnings/Precautions

The most important precaution related to the intake of brand or generic CO Diovan HCT is for pregnant women. In case its intake is unavoidable, you may use this medicine as per your doctor's prescription during the first three months of your pregnancy. However, the use of this drug during last six months of pregnancy is absolutely prohibited.

Possible Side Effects

Diovan is generally well-tolerated and side effects are rare. The most common side effects include headache, dizziness, fatigue , abdominal pain, cough, diarrhea and nausea. Patients may also experience hyperkalemia, impotence, reduced renal function, and allergic reactions. Rhabdomyolysis (inflammation and destruction of muscles) and angioedema (swelling of soft tissues including those of the throat and larynx) are rare but serious side effects of diovan.

More Information

Your pharmacist can provide more information about Diovan.