Valsartan

What is Valsartan? How does it work?

Valsartan is a type of antihypertensive (high blood pressure medication) called an angiotensin II receptor antagonist (ARB). It works by blocking certain receptors that allow the blood vessels to relax and widen. Wider blood vessels make the blood flow easier, lowering blood pressure and reducing strain on the heart, because it does not have to work as hard to pump blood around the body. 

Who is Valsartan suitable for?

Valsartan is generally only prescribed as a second-line treatment. This means that if you have tried another high blood pressure treatment, it may be prescribed to you as an alternative. The main reason Valsartan is prescribed is if you have experienced a dry, tickly cough as a side effect of another high blood pressure medication. 

Common side effects of Valsartan (affecting 1 in 100 people):

• Dizziness
• Vertigo
• Headache
• Nausea
• Vommitting
• Diarrhoea
• Joint Pain
• Muscle Pain

If you experience any prolonged side effects, speak to your doctor about alternative treatments.

Serious, but rare side effects of Valsartan

• Liver problems - this causes jaundice (yellowing of skin or whites of the eyes)

• Blood or bone marrow disorders - look for symptoms of pale skin, tiredness, faintness, dizziness, purple spots, bleeding, sore throat, fever

• Changes in sodium and potassium in your blood - this can cause weakness, low energy, irregular heartbeat, cramps, pins and needles,

• Allergic reaction - may involve difficulty breathing, swelling and rash

If you experience any of these side effects, seek immediate medical attention

Depending on the strength of the tablet, it may contain 40mg, 80mg, 160mg of Valsartan. Valsartan helps to relax and widen the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and reducing blood pressure.