Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used widely for treating high blood pressure, heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack.
Recommended Usage
Usage & Indications:
Valsartan is indicated for:
Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Effective alone or in combination with other medications to lower blood pressure.
Heart Failure: Reduces the need for hospitalization due to heart failure.
Post-Myocardial Infarction: Helps in lowering the risk of cardiovascular death in stable patients with left ventricular dysfunction after a heart attack.
Dosage & Administration:
Hypertension:
Initial dose: 80-160 mg orally once a day.
Maintenance dose: 80-320 mg orally once a day.
Heart Failure:
Initial dose: 40 mg orally twice a day.
Maintenance dose: 80-160 mg twice a day.
Post-Myocardial Infarction:
Initial dose: 20 mg orally twice a day.
Maintenance dose: Up to 160 mg twice a day as tolerated.
Precautions:
Monitor Blood Pressure: Regular monitoring is crucial to avoid hypotension.
Kidney Health: It's important to monitor kidney function due to potential side effects like high blood potassium levels.
Pregnancy: Not recommended during pregnancy due to risks to the fetus.
Contraindications:
Known hypersensitivity to Valsartan.
Severe hepatic impairment or patients diagnosed with primary hyperaldosteronism.
Not recommended for patients with severe renal impairment.
Key Benefits:
Blood Pressure Reduction: Significantly lowers blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack.
Heart Protection: Provides substantial relief and protection for heart function, particularly beneficial post-heart attack and in heart failure.
Improved Survival Rates: Assists in improving survival rates post-heart attack by enhancing cardiovascular stability.