Diovan Dosages

Diovan (valsartan) is a prescription medication that treats hypertension and reduces the risk of heart attack in patients that have experienced cardiac arrest or are in congenital heart failure. Diovan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker that blocks the chemicals that tell blood vessels to constrict. With the blood vessels left open, blood can flow more freely from the heart and the heart is under less stress. This is not a cure for hypertension or congenital heart failure.

Taking a Diovan Dosage

Diovan comes in several dosage combinations. The Diovan dosage you require will depend on your situation as well as your doctor’s recommendations. The most common starting dosage for patients with high blood pressure (hypertension) is 80 mg, though some patients in severe cases begin at 160 mg per day. Patients that have experienced a cardiac episode (or cardiac arrest/heart attack) may be prescribed a starting dose of 20 mg twice daily, and patients in congestive heart failure may begin with 40 mg twice daily. Diovan may take up to three weeks to realize its full effect. After the first few weeks, one’s doctor may adjust the dosage as needed based on your body’s reaction and any side effects, so it is important to tell him or her about everything you experience.

Children (aged 6-16) may take the drug, but their Diovan dosage is based on weight – 0.6 mg per pound, daily. It is up to the doctor to adjust the dosing as necessary. While Diovan is only available in a tablet, pharmacists may convert the tablets into liquid form if the child is unable to swallow tablets.

Diovan may be taken with or without food. It is important to take Diovan at the same time every day in order to maintain the proper amount in your blood. If you forget to take Diovan at your normal time, take it immediately when you remember. However, if it is near the time for your next dose, do not take the forgotten dose, as too much of the drug can cause damage. Do not stop taking Diovan without consulting your doctor.