Common side effects

• Viral infection
• Hyperkalemia
• Hypotension
• Arthralgia
• Back pain
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Headache disorder
• Diarrhea
• Acute abdominal pain
• Orthostatic hypotension
• Upper respiratory infection
• Kidney disease with reduction in GFR
• Cough
• Nausea
• Erectile dysfunction
• Vomiting

Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including

• Fainting
• Symptoms of a high potassium blood level

A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including

• Rash
• Itching/swelling
• Severe dizziness
• Trouble breathing

Other things to note

• Dizziness or lightheadedness may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
• To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.
• Although valsartan may be used to prevent kidney problems or treat people who have kidney problems, it may also rarely cause serious kidney problems or make them worse. Your doctor will check your kidney function while you are taking valsartan. Tell your doctor right away if you have any signs of kidney problems such as a change in the amount of urine.

Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you've had:

• Liver disease
• Loss of too much body water and minerals (dehydration)

Products that may interact with this drug include:

• Aliskiren
• Lithium
• Drugs that may increase the level of potassium in the blood (such as ACE inhibitors including benazepril/lisinopril, birth control pills containing drospirenone)

• If available, read the patient package insert
• Do not take if pregnant contact your doctor
• May make you dizzy. Use caution when driving.
• Be careful not to stand up too quickly
• Tell Dr. of slow pulse. Avoid potassium salt.
• Review all drugs you are taking with your doctor
• It is important to check blood pressure regularly.
• For capsule products : Check warnings on OTC medications.
• For solution, oral products : Measure dose using a dosing spoon/cup/syringe.

Valsartan is used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It is also used to improve the chance of living longer after a heart attack.

May Treat: Hypertension · Chronic heart failure · Diabetic nephropathy · Left ventricular dysfunction following MI

Brand Names: Diovan

Drug Class: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs)

Availability: Prescription Required

Pregnancy: Do not use. This medication may be harmful to an unborn child.

Lactation: Consult a doctor before using

Driving: May cause drowsiness or dizziness. Use caution