Valsartan: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Uses of Valsartan

Valsartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). It widens blood vessels to act as a blood pressure reducer, making it easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the body. For this reason, it is primarily used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure conditions. It is also sometimes used after a heart attack. Valsartan is characterised by 24 hours of activity at any dose compared to chlorthalidomide (an ARB drug with a short duration of activity at low doses.) Valsartan can also be used in combination with other drugs (amlodipine, hydrochlorothiazide and sacubitril). Trade name: Diovan.

Dosage

Valsartan is available in four dosage forms, including 40 mg, 80 mg, 160 mg, and 320 mg. When Valsartan is administered as oral tablets, 80 or 160 milligrams (mg) per dose once daily for adults with hypertension. For adults with heart failure, 40 milligrams (mg) per dose twice daily. For adults with left ventricular failure after a heart attack, 20 milligrams (mg) twice daily. The above dosages may be adjusted as appropriate, but the maximum dose is usually no more than 320 mg per day. Use in children as directed by a physician.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Valsartan include: dizziness, headache, nausea, vomiting, diarrhoea, joint or muscle pain. Serious side effects include: chest pain, fainting, arrhythmia, shortness of breath, yellowing of the whites of the eyes or skin, easy bruising, reddish-purple patches on the skin, prolonged bleeding, pins and needles and muscle cramps. Serious allergic reactions are rare and may include sudden swelling of the lips, mouth, throat or tongue, difficulty breathing, tightness in the throat or difficulty swallowing, drowsiness or dizziness.