Valsartan 40mg

Valsartan 40mg — Uses and Benefits

Valsartan 40mg is commonly prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and is also used in some patients after a heart attack or with heart failure.

WHAT THIS MEDICINE IS USED FOR

• Controlling high blood pressure
• Managing heart failure, along with other medicines
• Improving survival after a heart attack in certain patients

HOW IT WORKS

• Blocks the action of a natural chemical called angiotensin II
• This chemical normally tightens blood vessels, raising blood pressure
• By blocking it, blood vessels relax and widen
• This lowers blood pressure and reduces strain on the heart

WHAT IT IS NOT USED FOR

• Not a painkiller or fever medicine
• Not used for sudden, severe high blood pressure emergencies needing immediate hospital care
• Not a cure for high blood pressure; it only controls it while taken regularly
• Not recommended for use in pregnancy

This medicine does not cure the underlying condition but helps control it. It should be taken regularly, even if you feel well, unless your doctor advises otherwise.

How to Use Valsartan 40mg

HOW TO TAKE IT

• Take exactly as prescribed by your doctor
• Swallow the tablet with a glass of water
• Can be taken with or without food
• Try to take it at the same time each day for best results
• Do not stop taking it suddenly without consulting your doctor, even if you feel fine

IF YOU MISS A DOSE

• Take it as soon as you remember
• If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one
• If you miss doses often, set a reminder or speak to your doctor

STORAGE

• Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture
• Keep in the original packaging until use
• Keep out of reach of children and pets
• Do not use after the expiry date printed on the pack

Valsartan 40mg — Side Effects

COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Tiredness or weakness
• Nausea

LESS COMMON SIDE EFFECTS

• Diarrhoea or stomach upset
• Back pain or joint pain
• Low blood pressure symptoms like light-headedness on standing
• Mild cough

SERIOUS SIDE EFFECTS — STOP AND SEE A DOCTOR IMMEDIATELY

• Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat (signs of allergic reaction)
• Difficulty breathing
• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Yellowing of skin or eyes (signs of liver problems)
• Reduced urination or signs of kidney problems
• Irregular heartbeat or muscle weakness (possible high potassium levels)

This is not a complete list. Report any unusual or persistent symptom to your doctor or pharmacist.

Valsartan 40mg — Safety Information and Precautions

This is a prescription-only medicine in India and should only be used under a doctor's guidance.

DO NOT TAKE THIS MEDICINE IF YOU

• Are pregnant or planning pregnancy
• Are allergic to valsartan or any other ingredient in the tablet
• Have severe liver disease
• Are also taking certain medicines for diabetes along with aliskiren

TELL YOUR DOCTOR BEFORE STARTING IF YOU

• Have kidney or liver problems
• Have low blood pressure or are dehydrated
• Have heart valve problems
• Are breastfeeding
• Are on a salt-restricted or potassium-restricted diet
• Are already taking other blood pressure medicines

MEDICINES THAT CAN INTERACT

• Other blood pressure-lowering medicines
• Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics
• Certain painkillers (like NSAIDs) used regularly
• Lithium
• ACE inhibitors or aliskiren-containing medicines

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Can I take this medicine during pregnancy?

No, this medicine should not be used during pregnancy as it can harm the baby; inform your doctor immediately if you become pregnant.

How long do I need to take this medicine?

Most people need to take it long-term to control blood pressure or heart conditions; do not stop without consulting your doctor.

Can I drink alcohol while on this medicine?

• Alcohol may increase dizziness or lower blood pressure further, so it is best to limit alcohol and ask your doctor for personalised advice.
• Doctor ya pharmacist se salah lein.