What is Diovan: Uses, Warnings & Interactions

Updated Jan 12, 2021  •  Published Dec 30, 2020

Diovan overview

BRAND NAMES:

  • Valsartan AvPak, Valsartan AvPak, Diovan

Generic Names:

  • Valsartan

Uses:

  • Treats high blood pressure and heart failure. May lower the risk of death after a heart attack. This medicine is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB).

Therapeutic Classes:

  • Cardiovascular Agent, Renal Protective Agent

Forms:

  • Capsule, Tablet

How it’s taken:

  • By mouth

What is Diovan used for?

Valsartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker is used to treat hypertension and also patients who have had a heart attack. Valsartan works by relaxing and widening blood vessels in order for blood to flow easily. This also decreases blood pressure. It is indicated for use by adults and is available as a capsule.

What form(s) does Diovan come in

  • Capsule

  • Tablet

What are common Diovan doses?

  • Tablet 40MG

  • Tablet 80MG

  • Tablet 160MG

  • Tablet 320MG

Common Diovan prescriptions

  • Diovan
    30 tablets bottle

  • Diovan
    160mg tablet

  • Diovan
    320mg tablet

  • Diovan
    40mg tablet

  • Diovan
    80mg tablet

How to take Diovan

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

  • Oral liquid: Shake the bottle well for at least 10 seconds before you measure the dose. Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Store the oral liquid at room temperature for up to 30 days or in the refrigerator for up to 75 days.

  • Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.

  • Oral liquid: Shake the bottle well for at least 10 seconds before you measure the dose. Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.

  • Store the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Store the oral liquid at room temperature for up to 30 days or in the refrigerator for up to 75 days.

  • Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

  • Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you.

Diovan contraindications

  • This medicine is not right for everyone. Do not use it if you had an allergic reaction to valsartan, or if you are pregnant.

Diovan warnings

  • It is not safe to take this medicine during pregnancy. It could harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant.

  • Tell your doctor if you are breastfeeding, or if you have kidney problems, liver disease, or heart or blood vessel problems.

  • This medicine could lower your blood pressure too much, especially when you first use it or if you are dehydrated. Stand or sit up slowly if you feel lightheaded or dizzy.

  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Diovan interactions

  • Do not use this medicine together with aliskiren, especially if you have diabetes or kidney disease.

  • Some medicines can affect how valsartan works. Tell your doctor if you also use any of the following:Cyclosporine, lithium, rifampin, ritonavirACE inhibitor blood pressure medicineDiuretic (water pill)HeparinNSAID pain or arthritis medicine, including aspirin, diclofenac, ibuprofen, naproxen

  • Ask your doctor before you use any medicine, supplement, or salt substitute that contains potassium.

  • Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

  • Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Diovan side effects

Serious Side Effects

  • Confusion, weakness, uneven heartbeat, trouble breathing, numbness in your hands, feet, or lips

  • Change in how much or how often you urinate, bloody or cloudy urine

  • Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet

  • Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing

  • Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting