WARNING

Diovan is a medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. Like any medication, it carries certain risks and potential side effects. Some of the risks associated with taking Diovan include:

• Hypotension (low blood pressure): Diovan can cause blood pressure to drop too low, leading to symptoms like dizziness, fainting, and weakness.
• Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels): In some cases, Diovan can cause potassium levels in the blood to become too high, which can be dangerous, especially for those with kidney problems.
• Kidney problems: Diovan can affect kidney function, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney issues. It may cause a decline in kidney function or exacerbate existing kidney problems.
• Allergic reactions: Some people may experience allergic reactions to Diovan, which can range from mild symptoms like rash and itching to severe reactions such as swelling of the face, tongue, or throat, which can be life-threatening.
• Liver problems: Rarely, Diovan can cause liver damage or liver failure. Symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, and abdominal pain.
• Fetal toxicity: Diovan should not be used during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby, particularly in the second and third trimesters.
• Interactions with other medications: Diovan can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements, leading to potentially harmful effects.

It’s essential to discuss the risks and benefits of taking Diovan with your healthcare provider, especially if you have pre-existing medical conditions or are taking other medications. They can help you make an informed decision about whether Diovan is the right choice for you and monitor you for any potential side effects.

Why is this medication prescribed?

Diovan is prescribed primarily for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. It belongs to a class of medications known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), which work by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and reducing the workload on the heart.

How should this medicine be used?

As for how Diovan should be used, it’s typically taken orally, usually once daily. The dosage prescribed can vary depending on the individual’s condition and response to the medication. It may be taken with or without food.

For high blood pressure, Diovan may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive medications. For heart failure, it’s often used alongside other heart failure treatments, such as ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, or diuretics.

It’s essential to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and the dosage prescribed on the label. Do not adjust the dosage or stop taking Diovan without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well. High blood pressure and heart failure often have no symptoms, so you may not realize when your condition is not adequately controlled.

If you miss a dose of Diovan, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Always store Diovan at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep it out of reach of children. If you have any questions or concerns about how to use Diovan, talk to your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

Other uses for this medicine

Some off-label uses of Diovan may include:

• Diabetic nephropathy: Diovan may be used to help protect the kidneys in people with type 2 diabetes who have diabetic nephropathy, a type of kidney disease.
• Left ventricular hypertrophy: Diovan may be used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events in individuals with left ventricular hypertrophy, a condition where the muscle wall of the heart’s left pumping chamber thickens.
• Migraine prevention: Some studies have suggested that Diovan may help prevent migraines in certain individuals, although more research is needed in this area.

What special precautions should I follow?

As for special precautions to follow when taking Diovan:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Diovan should not be used during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. It’s also not recommended for use while breastfeeding. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Diovan with your doctor.
• Kidney and liver function: Diovan can affect kidney and liver function, so it’s essential to have regular monitoring of these organ functions while taking the medication, especially if you have pre-existing kidney or liver problems.
• Potassium levels: Diovan can increase potassium levels in the blood, so your doctor may need to monitor your potassium levels periodically, especially if you are taking other medications that can also increase potassium levels.
• Allergic reactions: If you have a known allergy to Diovan or any of its ingredients, do not take the medication. Additionally, if you experience symptoms of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing, seek medical attention immediately.
• Interactions with other medications: Diovan can interact with other medications, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Before starting Diovan, inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are currently taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Dizziness: Diovan may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly from a sitting or lying position. To reduce the risk of falls, avoid sudden changes in posture and be cautious when performing activities that require alertness until you know how Diovan affects you.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and advice when taking Diovan, and don’t hesitate to ask questions or seek clarification if needed.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Special dietary instructions for Diovan are generally not required. However, since Diovan can affect potassium levels, it’s a good idea to avoid excessive consumption of potassium-rich foods or supplements while taking the medication unless otherwise directed by your doctor. High-potassium foods include bananas, oranges, potatoes, tomatoes, spinach, and avocados.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget to take a dose of Diovan, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. If you’re unsure about what to do, or if you frequently forget doses, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance on how to manage missed doses effectively.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Diovan (valsartan) can cause various side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Especially when standing up from a sitting or lying position.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak.
• Headache: Mild to moderate headaches may occur.
• Upper respiratory infections: Such as the common cold or flu-like symptoms.
• Nausea or abdominal pain: Some individuals may experience stomach discomfort.
• Back pain: Pain in the lower or upper back.
• Diarrhea: Loose or watery stools.
• Hyperkalemia: Elevated potassium levels in the blood, which can cause symptoms like weakness, irregular heartbeat, or numbness/tingling.

Less common but more severe side effects may include:

• Allergic reactions: Symptoms can range from rash and itching to swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which can be life-threatening.
• Liver problems: Signs of liver problems may include yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice), dark urine, or persistent abdominal pain.
• Kidney problems: Diovan may affect kidney function, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney issues. Symptoms may include changes in urination frequency or volume, swelling in the ankles or feet, or fatigue.
• Hypotension (low blood pressure): This can lead to symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or weakness.
• Angioedema: Swelling of the deeper layers of the skin, often around the eyes and lips, which can be serious if it affects the throat and interferes with breathing.
• Fetal toxicity: Diovan should not be used during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby, particularly in the second and third trimesters.

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking Diovan, seek medical attention promptly. It’s essential to discuss any side effects you experience with your healthcare provider, as they can help determine the best course of action, including adjusting the dosage or trying a different medication.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Regarding the storage and disposal of Diovan:

• Storage: Store Diovan tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused Diovan tablets properly according to local regulations or guidelines. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them down the drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult with your pharmacist or local waste disposal company on the best way to dispose of unused medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek medical attention: If you suspect an overdose of Diovan or experience severe symptoms such as fainting, rapid or irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek emergency medical help immediately. Call your local emergency services or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Poison Control: If you believe someone has overdosed on Diovan but is awake and alert, you can contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222 (in the United States) or the equivalent emergency number in your country for guidance on what to do next.

What other information should I know?

• Regular monitoring: Your healthcare provider may need to monitor your blood pressure, kidney function, potassium levels, and other parameters regularly while you are taking Diovan to ensure its effectiveness and safety.
• Avoid alcohol: Limit or avoid alcohol consumption while taking Diovan, as it can increase the risk of certain side effects such as dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Inform healthcare providers: Make sure to inform any healthcare providers involved in your care (such as doctors, dentists, or surgeons) that you are taking Diovan. This includes disclosing it before undergoing any surgical procedures or dental work.
• Medication interactions: Diovan can interact with other medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications and supplements you are taking to avoid potential interactions.
• Follow-up appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider to monitor your response to Diovan and address any concerns or questions you may have about your treatment.

As always, if you have any questions or concerns about Diovan or its use, don’t hesitate to discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized guidance and support based on your individual needs and circumstances.