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 the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more smoothly and the heart to pump more efficiently. This medication is widely recognized for its efficacy in reducing cardiovascular events and is commonly used in long-term treatment plans to support overall vascular health.

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 for blood pressure reduction
• Suitable for use as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensives

Benefits

• Significantly lowers systolic and diastolic blood pressure, reducing strain on the heart and arteries.
• Lowers the risk of cardiovascular events such as stroke and heart attack in at-risk patients.
• Improves survival rates in post-heart attack patients with left ventricular dysfunction.
• Helps manage chronic heart failure by decreasing hospitalizations related to worsening cardiac function.
• Supports long-term vascular and renal health, particularly in hypertensive patients with type 2 diabetes and albuminuria.
• Generally well-tolerated with a side effect profile comparable to placebo in many studies.

Common use

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

Dosage and direction

The dosage of Diovan must be individualized based on the patient’s condition and response. For hypertension, the usual starting dose is 80 mg or 160 mg once daily; the dose may be increased to 320 mg once daily if needed. For heart failure, the recommended starting dose is 40 mg twice daily, uptitrated to 80 mg or 160 mg twice daily as tolerated. For post-myocardial infarction, therapy may be initiated as early as 12 hours after the event, starting at 20 mg twice daily and increasing 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.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored for hypotension, especially after initial dosing or dose increases. Renal function and serum potassium should be assessed periodically, particularly in patients with renal impairment, diabetes, or those using potassium-sparing diuretics. Use with caution in patients with hepatic impairment, severe congestive heart failure, or renal artery stenosis. Diovan may cause fetal harm if administered during pregnancy; pregnancy should be excluded before starting treatment and avoided during therapy.

Contraindications

Diovan is contraindicated in patients with a known hypersensitivity to valsartan or any component of the formulation. It is also contraindicated during pregnancy due to the risk of fetal injury and death. Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes is contraindicated.

Possible side effects

Common side effects may include dizziness, headache, fatigue, abdominal pain, nausea, diarrhea, and viral infections. Less frequently, hypotension, hyperkalemia, elevated blood creatinine, and renal impairment may occur. Rare but serious side effects include angioedema, decreased renal function, and liver enzyme elevations. Patients should report any signs of allergic reaction or unusual symptoms to their healthcare provider.

Drug interaction

Diovan may interact with other medications including:

• Potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, or salt substitutes containing potassium (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)

A comprehensive medication review is advised before initiation.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is almost time for the next dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Doubling the dose is not recommended.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe hypotension and tachycardia. Management involves supportive care, including intravenous fluids and vasoconstrictors if necessary. Valsartan is not significantly removed by hemodialysis.

Storage

Store Diovan tablets at room temperature (20–25°C or 68–77°F), in a tightly closed container, away from light, moisture, and heat. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

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

Diovan has been extensively studied in clinical trials and is generally regarded as effective and well-tolerated. In the Valsartan Heart Failure Trial (Val-HeFT), it demonstrated a significant reduction in combined mortality and morbidity. The VALIANT trial showed valsartan is as effective as captopril in post-myocardial infarction patients with heart failure. Many clinicians appreciate its once-daily dosing and favorable side effect profile, though individual patient experiences may vary. Long-term users often report stable blood pressure control and improved quality of life when used as directed under medical supervision.