About valsartan
Angiotensin II receptor blocker
Used for
- High blood pressure
- Heart failure
- Reducing cardiovascular risk 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. After heart attack: usually 20 mg twice daily, increased gradually.
Usual dose in children
For high blood pressure from age 6: usually 1.3 mg/kg once daily; maximum 40–160 mg daily depending on weight. Not for children under 6.
Common side effects
- Dizziness or low blood pressure
- High potassium
- Changes in kidney function
- Rarely, swelling of the face or throat
Important warnings
- Can harm or kill an unborn baby; stop if pregnancy occurs.
- Monitor kidney function and potassium, especially with kidney disease.
- Avoid potassium supplements and potassium-containing salt substitutes unless directed.
- Do not combine with aliskiren in people with diabetes.
Pregnancy
Avoid during pregnancy, particularly after the first three months; it can seriously harm the unborn baby.
Breastfeeding
Not usually recommended, especially for newborn or premature infants; discuss alternatives with a healthcare professional.
Interactions
- Aliskiren, especially in diabetes or kidney disease
- Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing medicines
- NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen, may affect kidney function
- Lithium; valsartan may raise lithium levels
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 It may be incomplete or out of date.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.