Valsartan
Valsartan is an ingredient used in the treatment of heart failure. It is taken by mouth as a tablet, either on its own or in a fixed-dose combination with sacubitril. Both the single ingredient and the combination are supplied as tablets.
Medicine containing Valsartan
Key points
- Valsartan is used in heart failure, a condition explained on the heart failure page.
- Entresto is a tablet that combines sacubitril and valsartan at 97/103 mg.
- Valsartan is also supplied as a single-ingredient medicine (valsartan).
What valsartan is used for
Valsartan belongs to the group of medicines given for heart failure, where the heart does not pump as well as it should. It is used on its own and as part of a combination with sacubitril, which is described on the sacubitril page. The combination is taken as one tablet rather than two separate ones.
How it works
Valsartan blocks the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels. When that action is blocked, the vessels relax and the heart meets less resistance as it pumps. Sacubitril works through a different pathway, so the combination brings two separate effects together in one tablet.
Forms and brands
The combination product is Entresto, a tablet containing sacubitril and valsartan at 97/103 mg, used for heart failure. Valsartan is also made as a single-ingredient tablet. Orders are shipped to Malaysia by pharmacy partners in India in discreet packaging.
Safety
Valsartan should not be used during pregnancy, because medicines of this type can harm a developing baby. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if you have kidney or liver problems, or if you have ever had swelling of the face, lips or tongue with a similar medicine.
Valsartan can raise the level of potassium in the blood, so potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium and potassium-sparing diuretics should only be taken on advice. It can cause dizziness, especially when standing up quickly or when treatment starts. Other blood pressure medicines and some painkillers can interact with it, so list everything you take, including anything bought without a prescription.
Further reading
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