Valsartan: how to take it safely
Diovan
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Lowers high blood pressure and helps in heart failure.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow once a day with water.
- Keep taking it even if you feel well.
When to take it
Take it at the same time every day.
Take it with
With or without food.
What to avoid
- Pregnancy. Tell your doctor straight away if you are pregnant or planning to be.
- Potassium supplements and salt substitutes, unless your doctor says so.
- Regular anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen or diclofenac.
- Becoming dehydrated.
Possible side effects
Dizziness, tiredness, headache.
Get help if
Swelling of the lips, face or tongue, fainting, or passing very little urine: get help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.