Valsartan

What is Valsartan for?

Angiotensin II is a substance that causes the blood vessels to become narrower and this causes an increase in blood pressure. Valsartan lowers blood pressure by blocking the effects of a substance called Angiotensin II at the blood vessel walls. 

This medication can also be used for patients who have protein in their urine and other heart conditions.

How should I take or use Valsartan?

• Do not stop taking your medicine without checking with your healthcare provider 
• This medicine may be taken with or without food

What should I do if I forget to take or use Valsartan?

If you miss a dose, take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only the usual dose. Do not double your dose or use extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

What precautions should I take when taking or using Valsartan?

Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant. Once you find out you are pregnant, stop the medication as soon as possible. Taking this medication can cause injury and death to your developing fetus. 

Your doctor may need to monitor your potassium levels and kidney function when you are on this medication.  

What are some common side effects of Valsartan?

The side effects include dizziness and lightheadedness on getting up.

The symptoms of a drug allergy include one or more of the following: 

• Swollen face/eyes/lips/tongue
• Difficulty in breathing
• Itchy skin rashes over your whole body

If you experience any of these symptoms, you should stop your medicine immediately and see your doctor.

Very rarely, this medicine can injure or damage the liver. A liver injury may recover on its own. However in some cases, it can cause serious liver damage. Stop this medicine and see a doctor immediately if you notice dark coloured urine or light coloured stools, or if you experience nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain or yellowing of your eyes or skin. This side effect has a very low chance of occurring. Most patients take this medicine with no problems. Check with your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns regarding your medicines.

How should I store Valsartan?

• Keep away from children
• Keep in a cool, dry place, away from direct sunlight

• Throw away all expired medicines.

How do I throw away Valsartan safely?

Pack this medicine into a black trash bag and seal it tightly before throwing into the rubbish chute or bin. 

What should I do if I overdose?

If you take more than the recommended dose, please seek medical advice immediately.