Valzaar 80mg Tab

VALZAAR 80MG TABLET

Valzaar 80mg Tablet, manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is a medication primarily used for cardiovascular health.

• Name:

  • Brand Name: Valzaar 80mg Tablet
  • Common Name: Valsartan

• Composition:

  • Active Ingredient: Valsartan 80mg

• Uses: Valzaar 80mg Tablet is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that works by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. It is prescribed for:

  • High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): To lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney problems.
  • Heart Failure: To improve survival and reduce the need for hospitalization in adult patients with symptomatic heart failure.
  • Post-Myocardial Infarction: To improve the chance of living longer and reduce the risk of cardiovascular death in clinically stable adult patients after a recent heart attack with left ventricular failure or dysfunction.
  • Kidney Protection: May be used for kidney disease and to help protect the kidneys from harm due to diabetes, particularly in diabetic patients with hypertension.

• Dosage and Administration:

  • Valzaar 80mg Tablet is typically taken orally, once or twice a day, with or without food. It's best to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent levels in the blood.
  • For High Blood Pressure (Adults): The usual dose ranges from 80mg to 320mg, taken once daily.
  • For Heart Failure (Adults): Typically, 40mg twice daily, with potential adjustments up to 160mg twice daily.
  • After a Recent Heart Attack (Adults): May start as low as 20mg twice daily, titrating up to a target maintenance dose of 160mg twice daily as tolerated.
  • Children (6 years and older with hypertension): Dosing is weight-based, usually starting at 1 mg/kg once daily (up to 40 mg total) and adjusted as needed, not to exceed 4 mg/kg once daily (160 mg/day).

• Side Effects:

  • Common Side Effects: Headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, back pain, joint pain, and cough. Dizziness or lightheadedness can occur, especially when standing up quickly.
  • Serious Side Effects (Seek immediate medical attention if experienced): Severe low blood pressure, very high potassium levels (symptoms include muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat), kidney problems (decreased urine output, swelling), and serious allergic reactions such as swelling of the face, tongue, or throat (angioedema).

• Precautions:

  • Pregnancy: Valsartan can cause injury and death to the unborn baby. It is contraindicated in pregnancy and should be discontinued immediately if pregnancy is detected.
  • Kidney/Liver Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney impairment and mild to moderate liver impairment. It is not recommended for severe liver impairment or in patients undergoing dialysis.
  • Dehydration: Caution is advised in patients who are dehydrated or have significant fluid loss.
  • Drug Interactions: Avoid concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes or kidney problems due to increased risk of kidney damage, low blood pressure, and high potassium levels. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce its antihypertensive effect and potentially worsen renal function. Consult a doctor before using potassium-containing supplements or salt substitutes.
  • Angioedema: Inform your doctor if you have a history of angioedema with other blood pressure medicines.

• Storage:

  • Store Valzaar tablets at room temperature, generally between 59º to 86ºF (15ºC - 30ºC). Keep the container tightly closed in a dry place to protect from moisture and out of the reach of children.

What is Valzaar 80mg Tablet used for?

Valzaar 80mg Tablet is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, and to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death in clinically stable patients with left ventricular failure or dysfunction after a heart attack. It may also be used to help preserve kidney function in patients with diabetes.

How does Valzaar 80mg Tablet work?

Valzaar 80mg Tablet contains the active ingredient Valsartan, which is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It works by blocking the effects of angiotensin II, a natural substance in the body that causes blood vessels to narrow. By blocking this action, Valsartan helps to relax and widen blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and makes it easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the body.

What is the usual dosage for Valzaar 80mg Tablet?

For high blood pressure, the typical starting dose for adults is 80 mg or 160 mg once a day, with a maximum dose usually not exceeding 320 mg per day. For heart failure, it might start at 40 mg twice a day and can be increased as tolerated, usually not exceeding 320 mg per day in divided doses. After a heart attack, it may be initiated as early as 12 hours post-MI at 20 mg twice daily, with gradual increases to a target maintenance dose of 160 mg twice daily. The exact dosage and duration will be determined by your doctor based on your medical condition.

What are the possible side effects of Valzaar 80mg Tablet?

Common side effects can include dizziness, headache, fatigue, abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting, decreased blood pressure, rash, and orthostatic hypotension (sudden lowering of blood pressure on standing). More serious, but rare, side effects can include very high potassium levels (hyperkalemia), kidney problems or damage, and severe allergic reactions such as angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat). If you experience persistent or severe side effects, you should consult your doctor.

Is Valzaar 80mg Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

During Pregnancy: Valzaar 80mg Tablet is not recommended and is considered unsafe during pregnancy, especially during the second and third trimesters, as it can cause serious harm or death to the unborn baby. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, stop taking it and contact your doctor immediately.

During Breastfeeding: It is generally not recommended to take Valzaar 80mg Tablet while breastfeeding as it is unknown how much valsartan passes into breast milk and there is a small risk it could lower the baby's blood pressure. Consult your doctor to determine if an alternative medication is more suitable.

Can Valzaar 80mg Tablet be taken with other medications?

Valzaar 80mg Tablet can interact with several medications. Taking it with diuretics (water pills) may increase the risk of low blood pressure and high potassium levels. NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) can reduce its blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of kidney dysfunction. Combining it with other angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), ACE inhibitors, or aliskiren can increase the risks of low blood pressure, high potassium levels, and kidney impairment. Avoid potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, and salt substitutes containing potassium, as this can lead to dangerously high potassium levels. Inform your doctor about all medications and supplements you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while on Valzaar 80mg Tablet?

You should not take Valzaar 80mg Tablet if you are allergic to valsartan or any of its components. Caution is advised if you have severe liver disease, diabetes, or impaired kidney function. It may cause dizziness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Alcohol consumption should be avoided as it can increase dizziness. To prevent dizziness, rise slowly when standing up from a sitting or lying position. Your doctor may monitor your kidney function, blood pressure, and potassium levels regularly during treatment. Maintaining a low-salt and low-fat diet along with regular exercise can complement the treatment.

What happens if a dose of Valzaar 80mg Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose of Valzaar 80mg Tablet, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

How should Valzaar 80mg Tablet be stored?

Valzaar 80mg Tablet should be stored at room temperature. Keep it out of reach and sight of children and pets. Always check the expiry date on the packaging before use.