valsartan at a glance
Medicine class
Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB)
Main licensed uses
High blood pressure; selected adults with heart failure or following a recent heart attack
Food
May be taken with or without food
What is valsartan used for?
Selected products have the following licensed uses:
Essential hypertension in adults.
Hypertension in children and adolescents; licensed ages and suitable formulation vary by product.
Clinically stable adults with symptomatic heart failure or left ventricular systolic dysfunction after a recent myocardial infarction.
Symptomatic heart failure in selected adults, including when an ACE inhibitor is not tolerated or in specified add-on circumstances.
How does valsartan work?
Valsartan blocks angiotensin II at AT1 receptors. This reduces angiotensin-driven narrowing of blood vessels and aldosterone release, lowering vascular resistance and reducing strain on the heart.
valsartan preparations and strengths
Capsule
Route: Oral
Strengths: 40 mg, 80 mg, 160 mg
Oral solution
Route: Oral
Strengths: 3 mg/mL
Tablet
Route: Oral
How to take valsartan
Follow the instructions for the specific prescribed product.
Tablets or capsules may be taken with water, with or without food.
Measure oral solution using the supplied oral syringe or measuring device rather than a household spoon.
Do not switch between oral solution and solid formulations without clinical review because exposure can differ.
Continue taking valsartan unless the prescriber advises a change.
valsartan side effects
Common or expected effects
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Abdominal discomfort
- Tiredness
- Nausea or vomiting
Get urgent medical advice
- Angioedema or anaphylaxis
- High potassium, which may cause muscle weakness, twitching or an abnormal heartbeat
- Kidney impairment or failure
- Liver problems, including jaundice
- Severe symptomatic low blood pressure
valsartan in pregnancy
Valsartan is generally avoided during pregnancy and must not be used during the second or third trimester. Anyone planning pregnancy should discuss an alternative beforehand; if pregnancy occurs during treatment, contact the prescriber promptly so treatment can be changed under clinical supervision.
valsartan interactions
Important interactions include:
ACE inhibitors, other ARBs or aliskiren
Dual renin–angiotensin system blockade increases the risks of low blood pressure, high potassium and kidney injury. Valsartan with aliskiren is contraindicated in diabetes or specified renal impairment.
Potassium supplements, potassium-containing salt substitutes and potassium-sparing diuretics
These may cause excessive potassium levels, so combination use requires careful review and monitoring.
Common questions about valsartan
Answers are fully visible for fast scanning and source review.
Is valsartan an ACE inhibitor?
No. Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker. It acts on the same hormonal system as ACE inhibitors but blocks the AT1 receptor directly.
Can valsartan be taken with food?
Yes. It can be taken with or without food; use the prescribed product consistently.
Sources
These sources were used to prepare and review this medicine page.
Prepared and reviewed by the iatroX editorial team.