Valsartan is a selective angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB), primarily used to treat hypertension and cardiac diseases. This medication works by blocking the binding of angiotensin II to the AT₁ receptor, thereby lowering blood pressure and improving cardiac function. Its core mechanism is vasodilation, reducing vascular resistance, and alleviating cardiac workload.
This drug is suitable for adult patients, commonly used to control primary hypertension and as a long-term management medication for heart failure. In diabetic patients, valsartan can also delay the progression of diabetic nephropathy, particularly effective against proteinuria complications. Its pharmacological properties make it an alternative for patients intolerant to ACE inhibitors.
The generic name is Valsartan. Major brand names include:
Different dosage forms may vary by manufacturer, and patients should use as prescribed by their physician.
The active ingredients may have different potency compared to other ARBs (such as Losartan, Candesartan). Strict adherence to medical instructions is essential, and brand or dosage should not be changed without consultation.
Valsartan is classified as Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB), which is an antihypertensive medication that works differently from ACE inhibitors. ARBs directly block the angiotensin II receptor, whereas ACE inhibitors inhibit the formation of angiotensin I.
This class of drugs is often combined with other antihypertensives (such as diuretics) for synergistic effects. In heart failure treatment, ARBs can improve afterload and reduce the risk of cardiac dilation.
Main indications include:
In heart failure, it can be combined with diuretics and β-blockers.
It is also used for cardioprotection after myocardial infarction to improve cardiac contractility. However, not all ARBs are approved for this indication, and use should follow medical guidelines.
Mild side effects include:
These reactions usually occur early in treatment and may subside with continued use.
Serious side effects requiring immediate medical attention:
If experiencing difficulty breathing, facial swelling, or skin rash, stop medication immediately and seek medical attention.
Contraindications include:
This medication is classified as pregnancy category C (first trimester) and D (later stages). Use with caution during early pregnancy.
Special precautions:
Caution when combined with:
When used with potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics (such as spironolactone), serum potassium should be monitored regularly. Combining with lithium may increase lithium levels, requiring close monitoring.
Initial adult dose for hypertension is usually 80-160 mg once daily, taken orally as a single dose or divided. For heart failure, the starting dose is lower (20 mg daily), titrated gradually to the target dose (up to 800 mg/day) based on efficacy.
It should be taken with food to enhance absorption, but it is not mandatory. In severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance
Missed dose management
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as possible. If less than 6 hours remain before the next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular schedule. Do not double doses to make up for missed doses, as this may cause hypotension.
It is recommended to set medication reminders and establish a fixed dosing schedule. If missed doses persist and affect treatment efficacy, consult healthcare providers to adjust the medication plan.
Overdose may cause severe hypotension, dizziness, and altered consciousness. Seek immediate medical attention and monitor hemodynamics, with IV fluids or vasopressors if necessary.
Acute management includes:
Patients should not self-adjust doses; medical professionals should evaluate and manage overdose cases.
Yes. The primary effect of Diovan is to lower blood pressure. Excessive salt intake can reduce its efficacy. It is recommended to limit daily salt intake to less than 6 grams, reduce processed foods, canned foods, and high-sodium seasonings to enhance medication effectiveness and maintain stable blood pressure.
When combined with diuretics (such as furosemide), Diovan may cause excessive blood pressure reduction or abnormal serum potassium levels. Concurrent use with NSAIDs (like ibuprofen) may also diminish its antihypertensive effect. Patients should inform their doctors of all medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements.
Dizziness or headache may indicate rapid blood pressure lowering. When starting or adjusting medication, move slowly when changing positions to avoid sudden standing. If symptoms persist or worsen, stop medication immediately and contact a healthcare professional. Do not attempt to modify treatment on your own.
Diovan does not directly affect blood glucose levels, but when used with certain antidiabetic drugs (such as insulin or sulfonylureas), it may increase the risk of hypoglycemia. Diabetic patients should regularly monitor blood glucose and discuss target levels and drug interactions with their doctors.
Diovan is strictly contraindicated during the second trimester (from the 20th week) of pregnancy, as it may cause fetal harm or oligohydramnios. Women planning pregnancy should inform their doctors before starting treatment. If pregnancy occurs, medication should be discontinued immediately and alternative therapies considered. Women of reproductive age should use effective contraception during treatment.
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