Diovan Side Effects
Diovan | valsartan side effects and adverse reactions include:
- Cough
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Low blood pressure (especially if you take water pills)
- Increase in potassium
- Joint pain
- Back pain
- Stomach problems
- Vertigo
- Severe allergic reaction
- Anxiety
- Rhabdomyolysis
- Hepatitis
- Increased urination (Diovan HCT)
Warnings & Recalls for Diovan
Tell your doctor if you have/are:
- Gallstones
- Any food or medication allergies
- Kidney disease
- Pregnant or nursing
- On kidney dialysis
Diovan contains a black box warning advising patients who are pregnant or may be pregnant to avoid taking this drug due to the risk of miscarriage or injury to the fetus.
Do not take this drug if you have problems urinating or if you have a low urine output.
High blood pressure has been observed to be less effective in African Americans
Diovan Treatment and Use
Diovan | valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist made by Novartis that is indicated for the treatment of hypertension as well as heart failure in patients whose bodies cannot tolerate drugs called angiotensin converting enzyme inhibitors. Diovan HCT is the same drug with an added diuretic, or water pill for drawing out excess fluid from the body to aid in blood pressure reduction. This medications are either used alone or in combination with other drugs to lower blood pressure in patients who take Diovan
How does Diovan work?
Diovan is an angiotensin II inhibitor. Angiotensin II causes narrowing of the blood vessels. By inhibiting this chemical from being produced, Diovan allows the blood vessels to be wider and more relaxed, thus allowing your blood to flow more easily and your blood pressure to decrease.
Diovan dosage
- Diovan comes in tablets of 80 mg, 160 mg, and 320 mg. It can be taken with or without food and once daily.
- The recommended starting dose for Diovan is 80 mg-160 mg. This can be increased to 320 mg if directed by a doctor.
- Care should be taken when prescribing this drug to persons with severe renal impairments.
Other Names for Diovan
Brand name:
Generic (unavailable):
- valsartan
- valsartan hydrochlorothiazide
Lawsuits & Legal Information for Diovan
Author:
Lainee Hooks
Posted on May 22, 2012