Diovan

Diovan works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that constricts blood vessels and increases blood pressure. By blocking the effects of angiotensin II, Valsartan helps relax and widen the blood vessels, which in turn lowers blood pressure and reduces the workload on the heart.

In addition to treating hypertension, Diovan may also be prescribed to improve heart function and reduce the risk of complications in certain individuals who have had a heart attack or heart failure.

How to use

Here are general guidelines for using Diovan:

1. Administration: Diovan tablets should be taken orally with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
2. Timing: Try to take Diovan at the same time each day to help you remember.
3. Compliance: Take Diovan regularly and do not skip doses. If you accidentally miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled 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.
4. Duration: Continue taking Diovan for as long as prescribed, even if you feel well. Stopping the medication abruptly can cause your blood pressure to rise again.
5. Other medications: Some medications may interact with Valsartan, so it is important to discuss potential drug interactions.

Dosage

Here are the general dosage guidelines for Diovan:

Hypertension (high blood pressure):

• The usual starting dose for most adults is 80 mg once daily.
• Your healthcare professional may adjust the dosage based on your blood pressure response, up to a maximum dose of 320 mg per day.
• Diovan may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive medications.

Heart failure:

• The recommended starting dose for most adults is 40 mg twice daily.
• Your doctor may gradually increase the dosage to a target maintenance dose of 160 mg twice daily or as directed.

Post-heart attack treatment:

• The recommended starting dose is typically 20 mg twice daily.
• Your healthcare professional may increase the dosage to a target maintenance dose of 160 mg twice daily or as prescribed.

Pediatric hypertension:

• The dosage for children is based on their weight and is determined by a pediatrician.

Side effects

Diovan may cause side effects in some individuals. Not everyone will experience these side effects, and their severity can vary. Common side effects may include:

• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy is a common side effect. It is advised to get up slowly from a sitting or lying position to minimize this effect.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is another common side effect.
• Headache: Some individuals may experience headaches while taking Diovan.
• Hypotension: Valsartan may cause low blood pressure (hypotension) in some individuals. Symptoms may include dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting.
• Hyperkalemia: Medication may cause an increase in blood potassium levels (hyperkalemia) in some cases.
• Back pain: Back pain is a reported side effect, although it is less common.
• Allergic reactions: While rare, some individuals may experience allergic reactions to Diovan. Seek immediate medical attention if you develop symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.

Storage

Diovan should be stored properly to ensure its effectiveness and safety. Here are the recommended storage guidelines:

1. Temperature: Store Diovan at room temperature, typically between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
2. Avoid moisture: Keep tablets in its original packaging, and protect it from moisture. Avoid storing it in the bathroom or any area with high humidity.
3. Light exposure: Valsartan should be kept away from direct light, such as sunlight or bright indoor lights. Store it in a dark place, such as a closed cabinet or drawer.
4. Keep out of reach of children and pets: Store Diovan in a secure location that is out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
5. Do not transfer to another container: Keep drug in its original container with the label intact. This ensures proper identification and avoids confusion with other medications.
6. Check expiration date: Do not use Diovan beyond its expiration date. Check the packaging for the expiration date and dispose of any expired medication properly.

Overdose

If you suspect an overdose of Valsartan, it is important to seek immediate medical assistance or contact your local poison control center. An overdose of Diovan can potentially be serious and may require medical intervention. Here is some general information regarding overdose:

1. Symptoms of overdose: Signs and symptoms of an overdose may include extreme dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, rapid or irregular heartbeat, severe fatigue, and low blood pressure.
2. Emergency response: If you or someone else has taken an excessive amount of Diovan, call emergency services right away. Provide them with all relevant information about the medication and the suspected overdose.
3. Medical evaluation: Once at the hospital or under the care of medical professionals, they will assess the severity of the overdose and provide appropriate treatment. This may involve measures to stabilize blood pressure and heart rate, as well as monitoring for any potential complications.

It is important to note that the information provided here is for general knowledge, and the specific management of a Diovan overdose will depend on various factors, including the amount ingested, the individual's overall health, and the presence of any other medications or substances in the body.

Missed Doses

If you miss a dose of Diovan, it is generally recommended to take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, it is better to skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Here are some guidelines for managing missed doses of Diovan:

1. Timing: Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. If it is close to the time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
2. Double dose: Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Taking more than the prescribed amount can increase the risk of side effects or complications.
3. Regular schedule: Resume taking Diovan according to your usual dosing schedule. It is important to maintain consistency in taking the medication to achieve optimal results.

 Diovan (pdf)