Valsartan (brand name Diovan) is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), heart failure, and to improve survival rates after a heart attack, particularly left ventricular failure[2][3][4].
This medication belongs to a class known as angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), which work by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten and narrow[2][4]. By blocking angiotensin II, valsartan helps relax and widen blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow and the heart to pump, thereby lowering blood pressure and reducing strain on the cardiovascular system[2][3].
Additional uses and benefits include:
- Reducing the risk of hospitalization for people with heart failure[2].
- Decreasing the risk of death in individuals whose hearts are not pumping blood effectively after a heart attack[2][3][4].
- Slowing progression of diabetic kidney disease (nephropathy) in people with type 2 diabetes by decreasing albuminuria (protein in urine) and potentially delaying end-stage kidney disease[3][6].
Valsartan may be prescribed alone or in combination with other medications (such as hydrochlorothiazide) for additional blood pressure control[7]. It is typically taken orally in tablet form, with common dosages ranging from 40 mg to 320 mg[2][4].
The use of valsartan is recommended when patients are unable to tolerate ACE inhibitors or as an alternative for initial therapy in hypertension, heart failure, or diabetic nephropathy[3][6].
References
- [1] Overview | Get to Know SAR – NASA-ISRO SAR Mission (NISAR)
- [2] Valsartan (Diovan) – Uses, Side Effects, and More – WebMD
- [3] Valsartan – Wikipedia
- [4] Valsartan (oral route) – Side effects & dosage – Mayo Clinic
- [5] Valsartan | Side Effects, Dosage, Uses, and More – Healthline
- [6] Valsartan: Uses, Interactions, Mechanism of Action | DrugBank Online
- [7] Valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide (oral route) – Side effects & dosage
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