Medicine Information

Co-Diovan

Name: Co-Diovan
Brand: Co-Diovan
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

TabletValsartan 80 mg and Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mgAntihypertensive (ARB and Diuretic Combination)ATC: C09DA03

Generic Name

Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide

Manufacturer

Novartis

Country

Switzerland (original developer), manufactured globally

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
co diovan 80 mg tablet	৳ 48.14	৳ 673.96

Description

Overview of the medicine

Co-Diovan 80 mg Tablet is a combination medicine containing valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide. It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled by either component alone. Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) which helps relax blood vessels, and hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that helps the body get rid of excess salt and water.

Uses & Indications

Treatment of essential hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults.

To reduce the risk of cardiovascular morbidity and mortality in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy.

As a second-line therapy when monotherapy is insufficient.

Dosage

Adults

Initially, one Co-Diovan 80 mg/12.5 mg tablet once daily. The dose can be titrated based on clinical response up to a maximum of 320 mg valsartan/25 mg hydrochlorothiazide daily.

Elderly

No initial dose adjustment is typically required, but caution is advised. Closely monitor renal function.

Renal_impairment

Not recommended for patients with severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min). No dose adjustment needed for mild to moderate impairment, but caution is advised.

How to Take

Take orally once daily with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with water. It is advisable to take the medicine at the same time each day, preferably in the morning.

Mechanism of Action

Valsartan selectively blocks the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor, inhibiting the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II. Hydrochlorothiazide increases the excretion of sodium, chloride, and water by inhibiting their reabsorption in the renal tubules, leading to a reduction in plasma volume and blood pressure.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Antihypertensive effect usually evident within 2 hours, maximal reduction by 4 weeks.

Excretion

Valsartan is primarily excreted in feces (83%) and urine (13%), mainly as unchanged drug. Hydrochlorothiazide is primarily excreted unchanged in the urine (50-70%).

Half life

Valsartan: Approximately 6-9 hours; Hydrochlorothiazide: Approximately 6-15 hours.

Absorption

Valsartan has an absolute bioavailability of about 23%. Hydrochlorothiazide has an absolute bioavailability of about 60-80%. Both are absorbed relatively rapidly after oral administration.

Metabolism

Valsartan is minimally metabolized (about 20%) by CYP450 enzymes. Hydrochlorothiazide is not metabolized.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to valsartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or any sulfonamide-derived drugs.
Severe hepatic impairment, biliary cirrhosis, and cholestasis.
Severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance < 30 mL/min) and anuria.
Refractory hypokalemia, hyponatremia, hypercalcemia, and symptomatic hyperuricemia.
Pregnancy (second and third trimesters).
Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes or renal impairment (GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m²).

Drug Interactions

Lithium

Increased serum lithium concentrations and toxicity. Monitor lithium levels.

Aliskiren

Concomitant use is contraindicated in patients with diabetes or renal impairment (GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m²) due to increased risk of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and worsening renal function.

Other antihypertensive agents

Additive hypotensive effect.

NSAIDs (Nonsteroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)

May reduce the diuretic and antihypertensive effects of hydrochlorothiazide and valsartan. Concomitant use may lead to worsening of renal function, including possible acute renal failure, especially in elderly or dehydrated patients.

Potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, or other agents that increase potassium levels

May lead to hyperkalemia. Monitor serum potassium.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from direct light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose include marked hypotension, dizziness, and possibly dehydration and electrolyte disturbances (e.g., hypokalemia, hyponatremia). Treatment is symptomatic and supportive. Induce vomiting or perform gastric lavage. Administer activated charcoal. Correct electrolyte imbalances and support blood pressure with IV fluids and vasopressors if necessary. Valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide are not removed by hemodialysis.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Pregnancy: Contraindicated in the second and third trimesters due to fetal toxicity (black box warning). Discontinue if pregnancy is detected. Lactation: Not recommended during breastfeeding as both valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide are excreted in breast milk and may cause adverse effects in the infant.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

Blister pack of 10 tabletsBlister pack of 30 tablets

Shelf Life

Typically 2-3 years from the date of manufacture, refer to the product packaging for specific expiry date.

Availability

Available in pharmacies and hospitals worldwide

Approval Status

Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA, EMA, DGDA)

Patent Status

Generic versions available, original patent expired

Clinical Trials

Numerous clinical trials have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide combinations in reducing blood pressure and improving cardiovascular outcomes, including studies like the VALUE trial (comparing valsartan to amlodipine, though not the combination directly, it supports valsartan's role).

Lab Monitoring

Serum electrolytes (potassium, sodium, magnesium, calcium) periodically
Renal function (creatinine, BUN, GFR) periodically
Liver function tests (LFTs) occasionally
Blood glucose, especially in diabetic patients
Serum uric acid (may be increased by HCTZ)

Doctor Notes

Advise patients on lifestyle modifications.
Regularly monitor blood pressure, electrolytes, and renal function.
Caution in patients with volume depletion or severe heart failure.
Avoid use in pregnant women.
Educate patients about symptoms of angioedema and orthostatic hypotension.

Patient Guidelines

Take your medicine regularly as prescribed by your doctor, even if you feel well.
Do not stop taking Co-Diovan without consulting your doctor.
Inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Report any signs of angioedema (swelling of face, lips, tongue, throat) or severe dizziness to your doctor immediately.
Avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium without medical advice.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Driving Precautions

This medicine may cause dizziness or fatigue, especially at the start of treatment or when changing dosage. If you experience these symptoms, avoid driving or operating machinery.

Lifestyle Advice

Adopt a low-sodium diet to enhance the antihypertensive effect.
Maintain a healthy weight.
Engage in regular physical activity.
Limit alcohol consumption.
Quit smoking.
Monitor blood pressure regularly at home.

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