Brand name:
Diovan
Pronounced: DYE-oh-van
Generic name:
Valsartan
Other brand name:
Diovan HCT
Why is Diovan prescribed?
Diovan is one of a new class of blood pressure medications called
angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Diovan works by preventing the
hormone angiotensin II from narrowing the blood vessels, which tends
to raise blood pressure. Diovan may be prescribed alone or with
other blood pressure medications, such as diuretics that help the
body get rid of excess water. Diovan HCT provides just such a
combination. It contains Diovan plus the common diuretic
hydrochlorothiazide.
Diovan also has a stimulative effect on the heart and is
prescribed for heart failure in patients who can't tolerate another
type of medication called ACE inhibitors.
Most important fact about Diovan
You must take Diovan regularly for it to be effective. Since
blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before
you get the full benefit of Diovan, and you must continue taking it
even if you are feeling well. Diovan does not cure high blood
pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Diovan?
Diovan and Diovan HCT can be taken with or without food. Try to
get in the habit of taking the medicine at the same time each
day--for example, before or after breakfast. You'll be less likely
to forget your dose.
--If you miss a dose...
Take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next
dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule.
Never take 2 doses at the same time.
--Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature. Keep in a tightly closed container,
away from moisture.
Diovan side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in
intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor
can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Diovan or
Diovan HCT.
- Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain,
allergic reactions,
back pain,
blurred vision,
cough,
diarrhea,
dizziness,
fainting,
fatigue,
headache,
joint pain,
low blood pressure,
nausea,
runny nose,
sinus inflammation,
sore throat,
swelling,
swollen mouth and throat,
upper respiratory infections,
vertigo,
viral infections
Why should Diovan not be prescribed?
Do not take Diovan or Diovan HCT while pregnant. Avoid both drugs
if they cause an allergic reaction, and do not take Diovan HCT if
you have ever had an allergic reaction to a Sulfa drug such as
Bactrim or Septra. Also avoid Diovan HCT if you have trouble
urinating.
Special warnings about Diovan
In rare cases, Diovan and Diovan HCT can cause a severe drop in
blood pressure. The problem is more likely if your body's supply of
water has been depleted by high doses of diuretics. Symptoms include
light-headedness or faintness, and are more likely when you first
start taking the drug. Diovan HCT can also cause dry mouth,
weakness, drowsiness, muscle cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Call your
doctor if any of these symptoms occur. You may need to have your
dosage adjusted.
Use Diovan HCT with caution if you have a history of allergy or
bronchial asthma, or suffer from the condition called lupus
erythematosus. Report a rapid or irregular pulse to your doctor.
If you have liver or kidney disease, Diovan and Diovan HCT must
be used with caution. Be sure the doctor is aware of either problem.
Also let the doctor know if you suffer from gout or diabetes.
The safety and effectiveness of Diovan and Diovan HCT have not
been studied in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Diovan
Check with your doctor before combining Diovan with salt
substitutes that contain potassium, or with diuretics that leave
potassium in the body, including the following:
Amiloride (Midamor)
Spironolactone (Aldactone)
Triamterene (Dyrenium)
The hydrochlorothiazide in Diovan HCT may interact with a variety
of drugs. Be sure to check with your doctor before combining Diovan
HCT with the following:
Alcohol
Cholestyramine (Questran)
Colestipol (Colestid)
Corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone and prednisone
Glipizide (Glucotrol)
Glyburide (Diabeta, Micronase)
Insulin
Lithium (Lithobid, Lithonate)
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil, Aleve,
Motin, and Naprosyn
Other blood pressure medications such as Cardizem, Lopressor,
and Procardia
Phenobarbital
Narcotic drugs such as morphine or codeine products
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Drugs such as Diovan and Diovan HCT can cause injury or even
death to the unborn child when used during the last 6 months of
pregnancy. As soon as you find out that you're pregnant, stop taking
the drug and call your doctor. Both of these drugs may also appear
in breast milk and could affect the nursing infant. If the
medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you
to avoid breastfeeding while you are taking Diovan or Diovan HCT.
Recommended dosage for Diovan
DIOVAN
Overdosage
There has been little experience with overdosage. However, the
most likely results would be extremely low blood pressure and an
abnormally slow or rapid heartbeat. If you suspect an overdose, seek
medical attention immediately.
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