Valsartan: An Angiotensin Receptor Blocker for Hypertension and Heart Failure
Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. It relaxes the blood vessels, reduces the workload on the heart and lowers blood pressure, which can prevent complications like stroke, heart attack, and kidney damage.
Mechanism of Action
Valsartan blocks the angiotensin II receptor in blood vessels, which is responsible for vasoconstriction (narrowing of blood vessels) and increasing blood pressure. By blocking this receptor, Valsartan relaxes and dilates blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the strain on the heart.
Indications
● Hypertension: For the management of high blood pressure.
● Heart Failure: To improve heart function and reduce the risk of hospitalization in patients with heart failure.
● Post-Myocardial Infarction: To reduce the risk of death and further heart damage in patients who have had a heart attack.
● Chronic Kidney Disease: Often used in combination with other medications to protect kidney function, especially in patients with diabetes.
Dosage and Administration
● Hypertension: 80–160 mg once daily. The dose may be increased to 320 mg per day based on the response.
● Heart Failure: 40–160 mg once daily, titrated to the target dose of 160 mg daily.
● Post-Myocardial Infarction: Starting dose is 20 mg once daily, adjusted based on tolerance.
● Chronic Kidney Disease: The dose depends on the severity of kidney function and underlying conditions.
Side Effects
● Common: Dizziness, headache, fatigue, and gastrointestinal symptoms (e.g., diarrhea).
● Serious: Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels), hypotension (low blood pressure), kidney dysfunction, and angioedema (swelling of the deep layers of skin).
Pregnancy Category: Category D – Not recommended during pregnancy due to potential harm to the fetus.
Common Brands
● Diovan
● Votubia