Diovan (valsartan) is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) prescribed for the management of hypertension and heart failure, as well as to improve survival following a myocardial infarction in clinically stable patients with left ventricular failure or dysfunction. It works by blocking the action of certain natural substances that tighten blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently. This medication is a cornerstone in cardiovascular therapy, trusted by healthcare professionals for its efficacy and well-established safety profile.

Features

• Active ingredient: Valsartan
• Available in tablet form (40 mg, 80 mg, 160 mg, 320 mg)
• Once-daily dosing for convenience and adherence
• Demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials involving over 15,000 patients
• Suitable for use as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive agents
• Manufactured under strict quality control standards

Benefits

• Significantly reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure
• Lowers the risk of cardiovascular events such as stroke and heart attack
• Improves survival rates post-myocardial infarction in eligible patients
• Reduces hospitalizations due to heart failure
• Well-tolerated with a low incidence of side effects compared to other antihypertensive classes
• Supports long-term cardiovascular and renal protection

Common use

Diovan is primarily indicated for the treatment of hypertension in adults and children 6 years of age and older. It is also used in adults for heart failure (NYHA Class II–IV) to reduce hospitalization, and for post-myocardial infarction patients with left ventricular systolic dysfunction or clinical evidence of heart failure when stable. In some cases, it may be used off-label for additional cardiovascular or renal conditions under specialist supervision.

Dosage and direction

The recommended starting dose for hypertension in adults is 80 mg or 160 mg once daily, depending on the patient’s condition. The dosage may be increased to a maximum of 320 mg daily. For heart failure, the initial dose is 40 mg twice daily, titrated to 80 mg or 160 mg twice daily as tolerated. For post-myocardial infarction, start with 20 mg twice daily and titrate to a target maintenance dose of 160 mg twice daily. Tablets should be taken with or without food, at approximately the same time each day. Dosage adjustments are necessary for patients with hepatic impairment or volume depletion.

Precautions

Patients should avoid becoming pregnant while taking Diovan due to the risk of fetal harm. Use with caution in patients with renal impairment, hepatic insufficiency, or those with significant electrolyte imbalances. Monitor renal function and electrolytes periodically. Avoid use in patients with bilateral renal artery stenosis. Caution is advised when administering to elderly patients or those with pre-existing hypotension. Patients should be advised against operating machinery or driving until they know how Diovan affects them, as dizziness may occur.

Contraindications

Diovan is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to valsartan or any component of the formulation. It must not be used during pregnancy due to the risk of fetal injury and death. Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes is contraindicated. Avoid use in patients with severe hepatic impairment, biliary cirrhosis, or biliary obstruction.

Possible side effect

Common side effects may include dizziness, headache, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and upper respiratory infection. Less frequently, patients may experience hypotension, hyperkalemia, increased blood creatinine, angioedema, or impaired renal function. Rare but serious side effects include hepatotoxicity, neutropenia, and thrombocytopenia. Patients should report any signs of allergic reaction, such as rash or difficulty breathing, to their healthcare provider immediately.

Drug interaction

Diovan may interact with other medications, including:

• Potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements (increased risk of hyperkalemia)
• NSAIDs (may reduce antihypertensive effect and worsen renal function)
• Lithium (increased lithium levels)
• Other antihypertensive agents (additive hypotensive effects)
• Aliskiren (contraindicated in patients with diabetes)
• CYP 450 inducers or inhibitors (may alter valsartan concentrations)

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and resume the usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe hypotension and tachycardia. Bradycardia, dizziness, syncope, and electrolyte imbalances can also occur. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic; consider gastric lavage and activated charcoal if ingestion was recent. Hemodialysis may not be effective due to high protein binding. Vital signs, electrolyte levels, and renal function should be monitored closely.

Storage

Store Diovan tablets at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F), in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep the container tightly closed and out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging.

Disclaimer

This information is intended for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting or changing any medication regimen. Individual patient needs and responses may vary.

Reviews

Clinical studies and post-marketing surveillance consistently report high satisfaction with Diovan among both prescribers and patients. It is praised for its effective blood pressure control, once-daily dosing convenience, and generally favorable side effect profile. Many patients note improved quality of life and reduced cardiovascular symptoms. Healthcare professionals value its reliability and versatility in combination therapies.