Diovan

Generic name: Valsartan

What is Diovan?

Diovan is an angiotensin receptor blocker. It is used in adults to lower high blood pressure, treat 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. Diovan can harm an unborn baby, causing injury and even death.

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 under 6 years of age or 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 nursing. This drug can cause harm to your unborn child, and should not be taken if you are going to nurse. 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.

High blood pressure

Adults: The usual dosage of Diovan is 80 milligrams (mg) or 160 mg once daily.

Children 6-16 years old: For children who can swallow tablets, the usual recommended starting dose is 1.3 milligram (mg)/kilogram (kg) once daily (up to 40mg total). For children who cannot swallow tablets or children for whom the calculated dosage (mg/kg) does not correspond to the available tablet strengths of Diovan, the use of a suspension is recommended. When the suspension is replaced by a tablet, the dose of valsartan may have to be increased.

Heart failure

Adults: The recommended starting dose of Diovan is 40 mg twice daily.

Heart attack

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.

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 you're your doctor before combining Diovan with the following: potassium sparing diuretics, 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: cough, diarrhea, dizziness, flu symptoms, headache, high blood potassium, joint and back pain, low blood pressure, rash, stomach pain, tiredness, dizziness, swelling of the feet/hands, unexplained weight gain

Can I receive Diovan if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or nursing. If pregnancy is detected, immediately stop taking Diovan. Diovan may pass into your breast milk and harm your baby. Speak to your doctor before or if already 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 double the dose.

How should I store Diovan?

Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Store the bottle of suspension at room temperature for up to 30 days, or in the refrigerator for up to 75 days.