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Diovan Application

• Therapeutic action
• Indication
• Contradictions and Cautions
• Side-effects
• Interactions

Therapeutic action:
Diovan or Valsartan is a peripherical vasodilatator which possesses hypotensive properties. Diovan belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. It specifically blocks angiotensin II receptors and does not affect angiotensine converting enzyme. The drug also has no affect on the quantity of cholesterol in blood, thyrotropic hormone, glucose or urea in blood. The drug starts to work in 2 hours after intake and is completely removed from the system in 24 hours. If taken regularly normal blood pressure can be monitored within 2-4 weeks of treatment. The drug does not have a withdrawal syndrome meaning that the treatment can be stopped suddenly.

Indications:
Diovan is used for the following purposes:

• Treatment of arterial hypertension(elevated blood pressure)
• Treatment of congestive heart failure(II-IV functional class by New York Heart Association classification)
• Post-infarction conditions

Contradictions and cautions:
Diovan should be used with caution if any of the following apply to you or your patient:

• Hypersensitivity to any components of the preparation
• Kidney disorders
• High level of dehydration
• Liver dysfunction or jaundice

If any of the above apply to you be sure to consult your doctor if you need a dosage adjustment or additional monitoring during treatment.

Diovan is in FDA pregnancy category D - meaning that it may cause harm to an unborn baby. Consult your doctor if Diovan is the right choice for you if you plan to become pregnant, are pregnant or are breastfeeding.

Side-effects:
As any other medication Diovan possesses certain adverse effects that may manifest during short-term or long-term treatment. When using Diovan do not forget to monitor your blood pressure and heart condition. Common less serious side-effects of Diovan include:

• Cold symptoms: stuffy or runny nose, sore throat, coughing
• CNS symptoms: dizziness, headaches, anxiety, tiredness, weakness, sleeping problems
• Gastro-intestinal symptoms: abdominal pain, diarrhea, nausea, vomiting or constipation
• Dry mouth or appetite loss
• Local skin reactions: itching, rash
• Changes in sex drive: impotence, trouble having an orgasm
• Joint, muscle or back pain

Such side-effects may disappear with time. If they still persist consult your doctor on possible dosage change.
More serious side-effects include:

• Allergic reactions: swelling, severe rash, itching, burning sensation
• Sudden fainting
• Swelling of throat, tongue, lips, or extremities
• Difficulty breathing
• Change in heartbeat or chest pain
• Numbness
• Weight gain

Be sure to stop the treatment and immediately consult your doctor if any of the above apply to you.

Interactions:
Some drugs may interact with Diovan(Valsartan) be sure to check with your doctor any other drugs, food supplements or vitamins that you are currently using before starting therapy with Diovan. Especially mention the following:

• Diuretics or water pills
• Potassium supplements
• Ace inhibitors
• Beta blockers