Before taking Diovan (valsartan) 160mg, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using Diovan (valsartan) 160mg, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: kidney disease, liver disease, severe loss of body water and minerals (volume depletion).
Diovan (valsartan) 160mg may make you dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do any activity that requires alertness until you are sure you can perform such activities safely. Limit alcoholic beverages.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of Diovan (valsartan) 160mg, especially kidney effects.
Diovan (valsartan) 160mg is not recommended for use during pregnancy due to the risk for harm to an unborn baby. Consult your doctor for more details. (See also Warning section.)
It is unknown if Diovan (valsartan) 160mg passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Store tablets/capsules at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Store the suspension at room temperature for up to 30 days, or in the refrigerator at 36-46 degrees F (2-8 degrees C) for up to 75 days. Do not freeze.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Read the Patient Information Leaflet if available from your pharmacist before you start taking Diovan (valsartan) 160mg and each time you get a refill. If you have any questions, ask your doctor or pharmacist.
Take Diovan (valsartan) 160mg by mouth as directed by your doctor, usually once or twice daily with or without food. The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment.
If you are using the liquid form of Diovan (valsartan) 160mg, shake the bottle well for at least 10 seconds before each dose. Carefully measure the dose using a special measuring device/spoon. Do not use a household spoon because you may not get the correct dose.
Use Diovan (valsartan) 160mg regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same time(s) each day. It is important to continue taking Diovan (valsartan) 160mg even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.
This product may affect your potassium levels. Before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Tell your doctor if your condition does not improve or if it worsens (for example, your blood pressure readings increase).
Dizziness or lightheadedness may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.
Remember that your doctor has prescribed Diovan (valsartan) 160mg because he or she has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using Diovan (valsartan) 160mg do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: fainting, slow/irregular heartbeat, unusual decrease in the amount of urine.
A very serious allergic reaction to Diovan (valsartan) 160mg is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US -
Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.
In Canada - Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Click here to view a more detailed list of Diovan side effects.
If you miss a dose of Diovan (valsartan) 160mg, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your usual dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to catch up.
See also How to Use section.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor's approval.
Products that may interact with Diovan (valsartan) 160mg include: lithium.