Valsartan (val-SAR-tan)

Treats high blood pressure and heart failure. May lower the risk of death after a heart attack. This medicine is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB).

Brand Name(s):

Diovan, Valsartan AvPak

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Tablet

• Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.
• Oral liquid: Shake the bottle well for at least 10 seconds before you measure the dose. Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Store the oral liquid at room temperature for up to 30 days or in the refrigerator for up to 75 days.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Do not use this medicine together with aliskiren, especially if you have diabetes or kidney disease.
• Some medicines can affect how valsartan works. Tell your doctor if you also use any of the following:
  • Cyclosporine, lithium, rifampin, ritonavir
  • ACE inhibitor blood pressure medicine
  • Diuretic (water pill)
  • Heparin
  • NSAID pain or arthritis medicine, including aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen
• Ask your doctor before you use any medicine, supplement, or salt substitute that contains potassium.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.
• Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have kidney problems, liver disease, or heart or blood vessel problems.
• This medicine could lower your blood pressure too much, especially when you first use it or if you are dehydrated. Stand or sit up slowly if you feel lightheaded or dizzy.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Change in how much or how often you urinate, bloody or cloudy urine
• Confusion, weakness, uneven heartbeat, trouble breathing, numbness in your hands, feet, or lips
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
• Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088