Valsartil
Generic Name
Valsartan
Manufacturer
Square Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| valsartil 40 mg tablet | ৳ 5.00 | ৳ 50.00 |
| valsartil 80 mg tablet | ৳ 6.00 | ৳ 60.00 |
| valsartil 160 mg tablet | ৳ 8.00 | ৳ 80.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack. It works by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Hypertension: Initial 80 mg once daily, may be increased to 160 mg or 320 mg if needed. Heart Failure: Initial 40 mg twice daily, titrated up to a target of 160 mg twice daily. Post-MI: Initial 20 mg twice daily, titrated up to 160 mg twice daily.
Elderly
No specific dose adjustment is required for elderly patients with normal renal function, but cautious titration is advised.
Renal_impairment
No initial dose adjustment for mild to moderate renal impairment. For severe impairment, caution is advised. Avoid in severe renal impairment (GFR < 10 mL/min).
How to Take
Valsartan can be taken with or without food. It is usually taken once or twice daily, as directed by a physician.
Mechanism of Action
Valsartan selectively blocks the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor in many tissues, including vascular smooth muscle and the adrenal gland. This inhibits the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II, leading to decreased blood pressure and reduced cardiac workload.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antihypertensive effect usually evident within 2 weeks, maximal effect achieved within 4 weeks.
Excretion
Primarily excreted in feces (83%) as unchanged drug and its metabolite, with about 13% excreted renally.
Half life
Approximately 6 hours.
Absorption
Rapidly absorbed after oral administration, bioavailability is approximately 25% (range 10-35%). Peak plasma concentrations are reached 2-4 hours post-dose.
Metabolism
Minimally metabolized; only about 20% of the absorbed dose is converted to an inactive metabolite.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to valsartan or any component of the formulation.
- Pregnancy (second and third trimesters).
- Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes mellitus or renal impairment.
- Severe hepatic impairment, biliary cirrhosis, and cholestasis.
Drug Interactions
Lithium
Increased serum lithium concentrations and toxicity.
Aliskiren
Concomitant use contraindicated in diabetic patients or those with renal impairment (GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73m²).
Diuretics (e.g., furosemide, hydrochlorothiazide)
Increased risk of hypotension and renal dysfunction.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen)
May reduce the antihypertensive effect and increase the risk of renal impairment, especially in elderly or volume-depleted patients.
Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, amiloride), potassium supplements, or salt substitutes containing potassium
Increased risk of hyperkalemia.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose include marked hypotension and possibly reflex tachycardia or bradycardia. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. Hemodialysis is unlikely to remove valsartan effectively.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Contraindicated in the second and third trimesters due to potential fetal toxicity. Discontinue as soon as pregnancy is detected. Lactation: Not recommended. It is unknown if valsartan is excreted in human milk. A decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 2-3 years from manufacturing date, refer to package for exact date.
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide
Approval Status
Approved by FDA (1996), DGDA
Patent Status
Generic versions available, patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials (e.g., VALIANT, CHARM) have demonstrated the efficacy and safety of valsartan in hypertension, heart failure, and post-MI settings.
Lab Monitoring
- Serum creatinine and potassium levels, especially at initiation and after dose adjustments, and periodically thereafter. Liver function tests.
Doctor Notes
- Consider baseline renal function and electrolytes before initiating Valsartan.
- Educate patients on the importance of adherence and potential symptoms of hypotension or hyperkalemia.
- Avoid concomitant use with aliskiren in diabetic patients.
Patient Guidelines
- Take Valsartan regularly as prescribed by your doctor.
- Do not stop taking Valsartan without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well.
- Report any symptoms like severe dizziness, fainting, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat immediately.
- Avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium unless advised by your doctor.
Missed Dose Advice
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Driving Precautions
Valsartan may cause dizziness or fatigue. Patients should be cautioned about operating machinery or driving until they know how Valsartan affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet low in sodium, engage in regular physical activity, limit alcohol intake, and quit smoking to help manage blood pressure.
- Monitor blood pressure regularly at home.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.