Diovan HCT
Generic Name: Valsartan
What is Diovan HCT?
Diovan HCT contains two prescription medicines: valsartan (Diovan), an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), and hydrochlorothiazide, a diuretic (water pill). Diovan HCT is used to lower high blood pressure in adults.What is the most important information I should know about Diovan HCT?
If you get pregnant, stop taking Diovan HCT and call your doctor right away.When taking Diovan HCT, you may develop symptoms of low blood pressure, such as dizziness or feeling faint, especially during the first few days of therapy. You should lie down and call your doctor right away. Low blood pressure is most likely to happen if you are on a low-salt diet, are receiving dialysis, have heart problems, drink alcohol, or are dehydrated due to vomiting or diarrhea, not drinking enough water, or are sweating too much.
Call your doctor right away if you get an unusual skin rash or swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands, or if you experience unexplained weight gain.
Diovan HCT may cause fluid and salt problems in your body. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of these signs and symptoms: dry mouth, thirst, weakness, drowsiness, muscle pain and/or weakness, low urine, fast heartbeat, or seizures.
Who should not take Diovan HCT?
Do not take Diovan HCT if you have trouble urinating (because of kidney problems), if you are allergic to medicines that contain sulfonamides, or if you are allergic to it or any of its ingredients.Do not take Diovan HCT if you are pregnant. If you get pregnant, stop taking Diovan HCT and call your doctor right away.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Diovan HCT?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Diovan HCT. Specifically, tell your doctor if you are taking any potassium supplements, salt substitutes with potassium, diuretics (water pills), antidiabetes medications including insulin, pain drugs, or sleeping pills. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have or ever have had gallstones, a heart condition, kidney problems, liver problems, or lupus (a disease that affects the immune system). Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.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.Diovan HCT should only be used by patients who have already tried Diovan by itself or hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) by itself. The starting dose of Diovan HCT is based on your previous dose of Diovan or HCTZ.
Adults: The usual starting dose is 160 milligrams (mg) of Diovan and 12.5 mg of HCTZ (160/12.5 mg) once daily. The dosage can be increased after 1-2 weeks of therapy to a maximum of one 320/25-mg tablet once daily.
How should I take Diovan HCT?
Take Diovan HCT exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor may change your dose if needed. Diovan HCT is taken once a day, at the same time each day. Diovan HCT can be taken with or without food.What should I avoid while taking Diovan HCT?
Avoid becoming pregnant while taking Diovan HCT.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Diovan HCT?
If Diovan HCT 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 HCT with the following: alcohol, antidiabetes medicines including insulin, aspirin, carbamazepine, diuretics (water pills), lithium, muscle relaxants, narcotic painkillers, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, other medicines for high blood pressure or heart problems, potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium, sleeping pills, or steroids.What are the possible side effects of Diovan HCT?
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: headache, dizziness, flu symptoms, tiredness, stomach pain, low blood pressure, diarrhea, back pain, high potassium levels, cough, rash
Can I receive Diovan HCT if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
If you become pregnant while taking Diovan HCT, stop taking it and call your doctor right away. Diovan HCT 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 HCT. Diovan HCT 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 HCT?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to your next dose, do not take the missed dose. Take the next dose at your regular time.How should I store Diovan HCT?
Store at room temperature in a dry place.
I'm Beth Isaac, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
