Diovan
Generic Name: Valsartan
What is Diovan?
Diovan is a medication called an angiotensin receptor blocker used in adults to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and improve the chances of living longer after a heart attack. It is also used in children to treat high blood pressure.What is the most important information I should know about Diovan?
Diovan should not be taken during pregnancy. If you become pregnant, stop taking Diovan and call your doctor right away.Diovan may cause low blood pressure, especially if you take diuretics (water pills), are on a low-salt diet, receive dialysis, have heart problems, or get sick with vomiting or diarrhea. Lie down if you feel faint or dizzy and call your doctor right away.
Who should not take Diovan?
Do not take Diovan if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, or if you are pregnant. Diovan is not for children with certain kidney problems.What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Diovan?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking, before beginning treatment with Diovan. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Also, tell your doctor if you have heart, liver, or kidney problems.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Blood Pressure
Adults: The starting dose of Diovan is 80 milligrams (mg) or 160 mg once daily. The usual dose of Diovan can range from 80-320 mg once daily.
Children 6-16 years old: Your doctor will prescribe the appropriate dose for your child.
Heart Attack Survivor
Adults: Diovan may be started as early as 12 hours after a heart attack. The recommended starting dose of Diovan is 20 mg twice daily. The usual dose ranges from 20-160 mg twice daily.
Heart Failure
Adults: The recommended starting dose of Diovan is 40 mg twice daily. The usual dose ranges from 40-160 mg twice daily.
How should I take Diovan?
Diovan may be taken with or without food.For children who cannot swallow the tablets, your pharmacist will mix this medicine as a liquid suspension. Shake the bottle of suspension well for at least 10 seconds before giving it to your child.
Carefully follow your doctor's instructions about any special diet. For treatment of high blood pressure, take Diovan once daily at the same time each day. For treatment of heart failure or after a heart attack, take Diovan twice a day at the same times each day.
What should I avoid while taking Diovan?
Avoid becoming pregnant while taking Diovan. Do not take potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium while on Diovan; doing so may lead to increases in potassium levels in your body and may worsen your condition if you have heart failure.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Diovan?
If Diovan is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Diovan with the following: diuretics (water pills), potassium supplements, or salt substitutes.What are the possible side effects of Diovan?
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 this drug.Side effects may include: back pain, cough, diarrhea, dizziness, flu symptoms, headache, high blood potassium, joint pain, low blood pressure, rash, stomach pain, tiredness
Can I receive Diovan if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you become pregnant while taking Diovan, stop taking it and call your doctor right away. Diovan can harm an unborn baby, causing injury and even death. If you plan to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about other treatment options before taking Diovan. Diovan may pass through your breast milk and cause harm. Notify your doctor if you are nursing.What should I do if I miss a dose of Diovan?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Diovan?
Store at room temperature. Store the bottle of suspension at room temperature for up to 30 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 75 days.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
