Valsartan

Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, acting on the AT₁ subtype. In the U.S., valsartan is indicated for treatment of high blood pressure, of congestive heart failure (CHF), and post-myocardial infarction (MI). It is marketed by Novartis under the trade name Diovan®. In 2005, Diovan® was prescribed more than 12 million times in the United States. A study released by the Journal of Clinical Investigation in 2007 found some efficacy in the use of Valsartan in the treatment and prevention of Alzheimer's Disease although such use is considered to be highly experimental.^[1]

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Administration

Oral tablets, containing 40 mg (scored), 80 mg, 160 mg or 320 mg of valsartan. Usual dosage ranges from 40–320 mg daily.

In some markets available as a Hard Gelatin Capsule, containing 40mg, 80mg, or 160mg of valsartan.

Diovan HCT® contains a combination of Valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide but, unlike Diovan®, is only indicated for hypertension, not for CHF or post-MI.

Side effects

Most commonly, headache and dizziness.

References