Valsartan
Brand: Diovan
Key warning
Boxed warning: fetal toxicity - stop as soon as pregnancy is detected
Common side effects
- Dizziness
- Elevated potassium
- Low blood pressure
- Headache
- Fatigue
Key interactions & cautions
- NSAIDs blunt its blood-pressure effect
- Avoid potassium supplements and salt substitutes
- Caution with other blood-pressure medicines
- Avoid combining with ACE inhibitors
Counseling points
- Take at the same time each day
- Rise slowly to reduce dizziness
- Report swelling of face, lips, or tongue
- Limit potassium-rich salt substitutes
- Do not use if pregnant
High-yield study aid for exam prep — not a substitute for the package insert or a pharmacist’s dispensing reference.