What is Diovan?

Diovan (valsartan) is an type of blood pressure medication called an ARB (angiotensin II receptor antagonist). Diovan keeps blood vessels from narrowing, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow. Diovan is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults and children who are at least 6 years old. It is sometimes given together with other blood pressure medications. Diovan is also used in adults to treat heart failure, and to lower the risk of death after a heart attack.

Always read the patient information and instructions carefully before using this medication.

• T ake Diovan at the same time(s) each day, with or without food.
• Your blood pressure will need to be checked often. Your kidney function may also need to be checked.
• I t may take 2 to 4 weeks of using this medicine before your blood pressure is under control. Keep using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life.
• Store at room temperature away from moisture and heat.

Make sure to tell your doctor and pharmacist:

• If you have any drug allergies.
• Which other prescription and non-prescription medications you currently take.
• Your medical history, especially of: liver disease, loss of too much body water and minerals (dehydration).
• If you are using marijuana.
• If you are breast-feeding.

Also be aware that:

• This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.
• This medication may increase your potassium levels.
• This medication is not recommended for use during pregnancy. It may harm an unborn baby.

Common side-effects may include but are not limited to:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.

Contact your doctor if you experience any of the following side-effects:

• Fainting, symptoms of a high potassium blood level (such as muscle weakness, slow/irregular heartbeat)
• Signs of kidney problems such as a change in the amount of urine.
• Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as rashes, itching, swelling especially of the face, tongue or throat, severe dizziness or trouble breathing.

Q: What special dietary instructions should I follow?

A: Do not use salt substitutes containing potassium without talking to your doctor. If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these directions carefully.

Q: What should I do if I forget a dose?

A: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.