Valsartan: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo

Valsartan

Rx

Generic NameValsartan

Therapeutic ClassARB

Max / 24h320 mg

Common Dose80–160 mg once or twice daily; max 320 mg/day

PregnancyContraindicated (Category D)

Indications ▼

Essential hypertension

Heart failure

Post-myocardial infarction left ventricular dysfunction

Reduces risk of cardiovascular mortality and morbidity

Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼

Mechanism: Blocks angiotensin II receptors (AT1), preventing vasoconstriction and aldosterone secretion, reducing blood pressure and cardiac workload.

Pharmacokinetics: Oral bioavailability ~25%, peak 2–4 hours, highly protein-bound (~95%). Excreted mainly in feces; half-life ~6 hours. Minimal renal elimination.

Dosage & Administration ▼

Condition	Recommended Dose	Frequency
Hypertension	80–160 mg	Once daily; may increase to 320 mg/day if needed
Heart Failure	40 mg initial, titrate to 160 mg	Twice daily
Post-MI LV Dysfunction	20 mg initial, titrate to 160 mg	Twice daily

Note: Can be taken with or without food. Monitor renal function and electrolytes periodically.

Side Effects ▼

Dizziness, headache

Fatigue

Hypotension

Hyperkalemia

Rare: Angioedema, renal impairment

Contraindications ▼

Hypersensitivity to valsartan

Pregnancy (especially 2nd & 3rd trimester)

Severe hepatic or renal impairment

Anuria or severe hypotension

Drug Interaction ▼

Other antihypertensives: additive hypotension

Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics: risk of hyperkalemia

NSAIDs: may reduce antihypertensive effect and increase renal risk

Pregnancy & Lactation ▼

Contraindicated in pregnancy (Category D)

Use caution during breastfeeding; consult physician

Clinical / Research Summary ▼

Therapeutic Role: Effective ARB for controlling hypertension and improving heart failure outcomes.

Clinical Effectiveness: Lowers systolic/diastolic blood pressure and reduces cardiovascular morbidity/mortality.

Safety Profile: Generally well tolerated; monitor electrolytes, renal function, and blood pressure.

Current Research: Focused on long-term cardiovascular protection and combination therapy with other antihypertensives.

Patient Counseling Points ▼

Take at the same time daily, with or without food

Do not stop medication abruptly

Monitor blood pressure, kidney function, and electrolytes regularly

Report dizziness, swelling, or unusual fatigue to your physician

Storage & Handling ▼

Store below 30°C in a dry place

Protect from light and moisture

Keep out of reach of children

Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼

Bangladesh (Local Brands):

Valsartil Valsacor Valzan

Global / International Brands:

Diovan Valsacor

Medical Disclaimer: This information is intended for educational purposes only and must not replace professional medical advice.

Reference Hubs:

• Drug Class: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers • Conditions: Hypertension • Conditions: Heart Failure