What it is used for
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Heart failure
- Protecting the heart after a heart attack
How it works
Valsartan blocks the receptor for a hormone (angiotensin II) that tightens blood vessels. By preventing the hormone from working, blood vessels relax and widen, lowering blood pressure and easing strain on the heart.
How it is taken
Taken by mouth as a tablet, and as an oral liquid in some countries, usually once a day with or without food. Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist directs and follow the label. Do not stop on your own; your clinician may check kidney function and potassium with blood tests.
No doses here on purpose. The right strength and schedule depend on you — only a doctor or pharmacist should set them. Always follow your prescription and the label.
Common side effects
- Dizziness, especially when standing
- Tiredness
- Headache
- Mild rise in blood potassium
- Cold-like symptoms
Serious effects — get help
- Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, or trouble breathing (angioedema) — seek emergency care
- Fainting
- Signs of high potassium such as muscle weakness or irregular heartbeat
- Reduced urination or signs of kidney problems
If a reaction is severe — for example trouble breathing, swelling of the face or throat, or collapse — go to the nearest emergency room now or call your local emergency number. Do not wait for an online consultation.
Interactions to watch
- Potassium supplements and potassium-containing salt substitutes
- Potassium-sparing diuretics such as spironolactone
- ACE inhibitors and other blood pressure medicines (avoid combining without advice)
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen
- Lithium
Who should take care
- Do NOT use in pregnancy — it can harm the unborn baby; tell your doctor if you become or plan to become pregnant
- Tell your clinician about kidney disease or narrowing of the kidney arteries
- Avoid potassium-based salt substitutes unless advised
- Dizziness risk is higher if dehydrated or on a water pill
- Discuss severe liver problems with your clinician