| Why
is Diovan prescribed?
Diovan is used to treat high blood pressure. It blocks the action
of certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows
more smoothly. Valsartan is sometimes prescribed for other uses;
ask your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
How
should Diovan be used?
Diovan comes as a capsule to take by mouth. It is usually taken
once a day. Follow the directions on your prescription label carefully,
and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not
understand. Take Valsartan exactly as directed. Do not take more
or less of it or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Diovan controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue
to take Diovan even if you feel well. Do not stop taking Diovan
without talking to your doctor.
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What
special precautions should I follow?
Before
taking diovan, tell
your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to Diovan, candesartan
(Atacand), benazepril (Lotensin), captopril (Capoten), enalapril
(Vasotec), fosinopril (Monopril), hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL),
irbesartan (Avapro), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril), losartan (Cozaar),
moexipril (Univasc), quinapril (Accupril), ramipril (Altace), sulfas,
telmisartan (Micardis), trandolapril (Mavik), or any other drugs.
tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription
medications you are taking, especially barbiturates; cholestyramine
(Questran); colestipol (Colestid); diuretics (''water pills'');
lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid); medications for diabetes; nonsteroidal
anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen [Motrin, Advil], naproxen
[Naprosyn, Aleve], and others); other medications for high blood
pressure; potassium supplements; and vitamins.
tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart, kidney, or
liver disease or diabetes.
if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor
or dentist that you are taking Diovan.
you should know that this drug may make you drowsy. Do not drive
a car or operate machinery until you know how Diovan will affect
you.
remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by this drug.
What should I do if I forget a dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it
is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue
your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make
up for a missed one.
What
side effects can Diovan cause?
Although side effects from Valsartan are not common, they can occur.
Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go
away:
dizziness
lightheadedness
congestion
cough
diarrhea
trouble sleeping
headache
muscle aches
fever
sore throat
runny nose
excessive tiredness
If you experience any of the following symptoms, call your doctor
immediately:
swelling
of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
difficulty breathing or swallowing
fainting
rash
What storage conditions are needed for Diovan?
Keep Valsartan in the container it came in, tightly closed, and
out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away
from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away
any medication that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your
pharmacist about the proper disposal of your medication.
What
other information should I know?
Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory.
Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your
response to valsartan.
Do
not let anyone else take your medication. Ask your pharmacist any
questions you have about refilling your prescription
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