Diovan FAQ
Diovan (valsartan) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker used to keep blood vessels open, allowing blood to flow smoothly. It is most commonly used in high blood pressure patients or patients that have recently experienced a heart attack. It comes in tablet form for oral administration in 80 mg, 160 mg or 320 mg, and it can be taken alone or in combination with other drugs. Diovan begins working within 24 hours of the first dose.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diovan – Can Diovan Cause Blood To Thin?
No. Diovan is a vasodilator, not a blood thinner. By blocking the chemical angiotensin II, which causes blood vessels to constrict, Diovan aids blood flow throughout the body.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diovan – Is Diovan a Statin Drug?
No. Diovan is not a statin drug and does not interact with cholesterol to aid in increased blood flow. Diovan simply blocks the angiotensin II receptors, which cause vein constriction. In this way, Diovan dilates veins and allows blood to flow more smoothly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diovan – When Did Diovan Come Out?
Valsartan was released in the U.S. market in 2005 by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. That year, it was prescribed more than 12 million times in the United States. It goes by the brand name Diovan in the United States, Angiotan in India, and Tareg in Egypt.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diovan – Does Diovan Have Significant Side Effects?
The most common side effects of Diovan are headache, dizziness, flu-like symptoms, tiredness and stomach (abdominal) pain.
There are some serious side effects that you should be aware of.
- Diovan can cause birth defect, miscarriage or stillbirth, so do not take Diovan if you are pregnant.
- Low Blood Pressure (hypotension): If you experience dizziness or feel faint, lie down immediately and call your doctor.
- Kidney Problems. Kidney problems may worsen for those with previous kidney conditions. Contact your doctor if you notice swelling in your feet, ankles or hands, or if you experience unexpected weight gain. If you have experienced heart failure, have your doctor check your kidney function before taking Diovan.
The most common side effects experienced by patients who are taking Diovan for heart failure are:
- Dizziness
- Low blood pressure
- Diarrhea
- Joint and back pain
- Tiredness
- High blood potassium
The most common side effects experienced by patients taking Diovan after a heart attack are:
- Low blood pressure
- Cough
- High blood creatinine (decreased kidney function)
- Rash
These are not all the possible side effects of Diovan. Ask your doctor or pharmacist for a complete list.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diovan – Can I Take Diovan at Bed Time?
Yes. As long as you take Diovan at the same time every day, you can take it whenever you wish. It is not important to take with or without food. If you miss a dose or realize you have missed a dose, you may take the missed dose immediately unless it is near your normal intake time. If you take too much Diovan, call Poison Control immediately.