Brand Name: Diovan
Generic Name: Valsartan

Valsartan

(val-SAR-tan)

NEWLY DISCOVERED USES (OFF-LABEL)
Diabetic nephropathy

ORIGINAL USES (ON-LABEL)
For the treatment of high blood pressure and heart failure

BRAND NAME
Diovan

DRUG CLASS
Blood pressure medication (angiotensin II receptor antagonist [ARB])

DESCRIPTION
Valsartan works by blocking the substance that causes fluid retention and blood vessels to constrict.

POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Dizziness, fatigue, increased potassium levels, abdominal pain, dry cough, upper respiratory infection.

CAUTIONS

• Do not use if you have certain kidney problems (kidney artery stenosis, decreased kidney function).
• Do not use in pregnant patients who are in the second or third trimester.
• Avoid use if you are dehydrated.

DRUG INTERACTIONS
Lithium, amiloride, spironolactone and triamterene

FOOD INTERACTIONS
Unknown

HERBAL INTERACTIONS
Ma huang, yohimbine, limit intake of natural licorice

PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
FDA Pregnancy Risk Category C in first trimester, Category D in second and third trimesters. Do not use during second and third trimesters of pregnancy. Excreted in breast milk. Breast-feeding is not recommended.

SPECIAL INFORMATION
This drug has a black box warning regarding the fetal toxicities associated with the use of this drug class during the second and third trimesters of pregnancy. When pregnancy is detected, the drug should be discontinued as soon as possible.