About valsartan
Angiotensin II receptor blocker
Used for
- High blood pressure
- Heart failure
- Reducing cardiovascular complications after a heart attack
Usual adult dose
High blood pressure: usually 80–160 mg once daily. Heart failure: usually 40 mg twice daily, increased gradually.
Usual dose in children
For ages 6–16 with high blood pressure: usually 1.3 mg/kg once daily; maximum 40–160 mg daily depending on weight.
Common side effects
- Dizziness
- Low blood pressure
- High potassium
- Kidney function changes
Important warnings
- Can harm or cause death to a developing fetus; avoid during pregnancy.
- May worsen kidney function, especially with dehydration or kidney artery narrowing.
- Potassium levels and kidney function may need monitoring.
- Seek urgent care for facial or throat swelling.
Pregnancy
Do not use during pregnancy; stop promptly if pregnancy occurs and contact a healthcare professional.
Breastfeeding
Not usually recommended, especially for newborn or premature infants; discuss alternatives with a healthcare professional.
Interactions
- Potassium supplements or potassium-containing salt substitutes can raise potassium.
- NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, may impair kidney function and reduce blood-pressure effects.
- Lithium levels may rise.
- Other blood-pressure medicines can increase low-blood-pressure risk.
AI-generated from general medical knowledge, not from this product's official leaflet. It may be incomplete or out of date. Not medical advice — ask a pharmacist or doctor before making any decision.