Diovan (Valsartan) belongs to a family of medications known as angiotensin II receptor blockers. This medication is used to lower mild to moderate high blood pressure. Valsartan is also used to treat chronic heart failure to reduce the risk of death after a heart attack in people who cannot use another type of medication called angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor. Angiotensin II is a chemical that the body releases to cause the constriction of blood vessels. Valsartan blocks the action of angiotensin II, resulting in the relaxation of the blood vessels. This causes the blood pressure to drop. The full effects of this medication are usually seen within 4 weeks. Valsartan may be used alone or in combination with a diuretic (water pill).
Manufacturer Information
We currently have the brand from Turkey and UK manufactured by Novartis and the generic from Canada and India. It may come from other international suppliers. Diovan is available in tablets of 40 mg, 80 mg, 160 mg, and 320 mg strengths.
Contact your doctor if you experience these side effects and they are severe or bothersome.
• Abdominal pain
• Back pain
• Cough
• Diarrhea
• Fatigue
• Joint pain
• Sore throat
Check with your doctor as soon as possible if any of the following side effects occur:
• Decreased urination
• Fainting
• Viral infections
Stop taking the medication and seek immediate medical attention if there are signs of a serious allergic reaction (e.g, swelling of face or throat, hives or difficulty breathing).
This drug may make you dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy due to the risk for harm to an unborn baby. It is unknown if this drug passes into breast milk, consult your doctor before breast-feeding. There may be an interaction between valsartan and other medications such as angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors, diuretics, lithium, medications that increase the level of potassium in the blood, potassium supplements. Inform your doctor if you are taking any of these medications.
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