Diovan (Valsartan) Prescriptions Available Online Today

Valsartan is classified as an Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker (ARB) antihypertensive medication. Angiotensin is a powerful chemical produced by your blood through the use of angiotensin converting enzymes (ACE). Angiotensin causes blood vessels to narrow, thus increasing blood pressure resulting in hypertension. ARBs block the angiotensin chemical, keeping blood pressure within a healthy range.

ARBs work by displacing the angiotensin receptor resulting in dilated blood vessels, thus reducing blood pressure. Valsartan begins to work about 2 hours after it is taken and lasts 24 hours.

Valsartan is prescribed as different doses depending on your needs and treatment plan. How frequently you take valsartan and at what dose depends on what your doctor prescribes.

Valsartan comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth. Tablets can be taken with or without food. Here are the common dosages and treatment regimens for tablet form valsartan:

• After a heart attack, providers may prescribe 20 mg twice daily, up to 160 mg twice daily under close monitoring to avoid dangerous drops in blood pressure.

• To manage high blood pressure, 80 to 160 mg once daily may be prescribed.

• For heart failure, 20 to 40 mg may be prescribed twice daily. All medication regimens and adjustments should be guided by a board-certified provider.

These dosages can be evaluated every 4 to 6 weeks to ensure the correct dosing. A PlushCare doctor can guide you to maximize your treatment plan and options.

Valsartan can help you control your heart failure and decrease high blood pressure. This can overall reduce the risk of a stroke, heart attack, or kidney problems.

Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers (ARBs) are typically well tolerated by patients and have lower rates of adverse side effects when compared to other similar medications. 

A generic equivalent in the US is available. The brand name for valsartan is called Diovan. Diovan tablets may cost between $7 to 12, while valsartan tablets cost $1 to 6. In general, generic brands of medications cost less than the brand name.

The most common side effect of valsartan is dizziness. Valsartan may also increase the incidence of a cough which occurs in 3.2 - 9.9 % of patients. The risk of angioedema, dangerous face and neck swelling, with valsartan is low and ARBs appear to be safe for patients with symptomatic asthma. 

Valsartan and other ARBs may have an increased risk of kidney dysfunction or fainting, a doctor will be able to determine if valsartan is safe for you to take as part of your treatment regimen.

Valsartan was recalled in 2018 due to the detection of possible trace amounts of human carcinogenic impurities. The problem with Valsartan is that in 2018 it contained two chemicals that are classified as probable human carcinogens. These were NDMA and NDEA.

To date, no adverse events have been reported due to this recall and new medications are made free from any impurities.

Valsartan should not be taken by pregnant women as drugs that directly act on the renin-angiotensin system can cause injury and death to the developing fetus. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the breastfed infant, breastfeeding is not recommended while taking Valsartan.

Angioedema is a concern for a harmful effect of valsartan. Angioedema is a potentially life-threatening condition in which the tongue, glottis, or larynx become swollen. Too much swelling can result in obstruction, which can threaten your airway. Valsartan should be discontinued immediately if angioedema occurs.

If you have heart failure, a recent heart attack, or high blood pressure, Valsartan may be a good addition to your treatment plan. You can request a Valsartan prescription online by speaking with a certified online doctor, who will perform a medical evaluation to determine if you qualify. Book an appointment online today with one of our primary care doctors to learn more.