Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker used to lower blood pressure and treat certain types of heart failure patients.

It relaxes arteries, reduces strain on the heart, and can slow kidney damage related to long term hypertension in diabetes. Doctors often choose valsartan when ACE inhibitors cause a persistent cough or if the patient has intolerance to those drugs. Standard starting doses for adults with high blood pressure are usually eighty to one hundred sixty milligrams taken once daily.

Some people need higher amounts, up to three hundred twenty milligrams per day split or taken once depending on product. Heart failure and post heart attack dosing follow different protocols so medical supervision and heart failure clinics guide those adjustments. Take valsartan at the same time each day, with or without food, and follow any special instructions from your pharmacist.

Avoid potassium supplements unless your doctor approves because valsartan can raise potassium levels which may cause dangerous heart rhythm problems. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs like ibuprofen can reduce kidney function when combined with valsartan, especially in dehydrated patients and elderly people. Do not use valsartan during pregnancy because it can cause fetal injury or death; stop the drug before planned conception.

Common side effects include dizziness, fatigue, headache, abdominal pain, or cough, though cough is less than with ACE inhibitors overall. If you feel faint, notice swelling, or have breathing trouble, seek medical help as these may signal a serious reaction. Your doctor will check kidney function and potassium before starting valsartan and repeat tests within one to two weeks afterwards.

Elderly patients often start at lower doses because they are more sensitive to blood pressure drops and kidney effects too. If you miss a dose, take it when remembered unless the next dose is near, then skip the missed dose. Store valsartan in a cool dry place away from direct sunlight and keep medications out of reach of children always.

Discuss all your medicines with the prescriber including supplements, herbal products, and over the counter drugs to avoid interactions always. Some people switch to other classes like ACE inhibitors or calcium channel blockers for side effects, cost, or kidney reasons. If you have diabetes, tell your doctor because monitoring of kidneys and medications that affect the renin angiotensin system matters. Want more on dosing, side effects, or safe online pharmacies? Check related posts and use the contact page for questions.

Remember blood pressure control uses medicines plus lifestyle changes like diet, exercise, weight loss, and cutting alcohol and salt too. Never stop valsartan suddenly without your doctor's advice because abrupt changes can worsen blood pressure control or heart failure symptoms. If you plan surgery or imaging with contrast, tell providers you take valsartan; they monitor kidneys or pause the drug.

Ask questions about generic options, copay programs, or manufacturer assistance if cost is a concern because generic valsartan is available. Always keep communication with your healthcare team so adjustments happen and you stay safe while getting blood pressure under control.