Valsartan Amlodipine is a prescription medication combining two different active ingredients. This combination drug is commonly used to manage high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. It works by addressing different pathways involved in blood pressure regulation to help lower it effectively.
How the Medication Works
Valsartan Amlodipine combines an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), valsartan, and a calcium channel blocker (CCB), amlodipine. Valsartan functions by blocking the effects of a hormone called angiotensin II, which causes blood vessels to narrow. By blocking this hormone, valsartan helps to relax and widen blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and reducing pressure within the arteries.
Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, works by affecting the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. This action causes the smooth muscles in the blood vessel walls to relax. The relaxation of these muscles leads to the widening of blood vessels, which in turn lowers blood pressure and can increase the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.
Conditions Treated
Valsartan Amlodipine is primarily prescribed to treat high blood pressure. Uncontrolled high blood pressure increases the workload on the heart and arteries, which can lead to damage over time. This damage can affect blood vessels in organs like the brain, heart, and kidneys.
Lowering blood pressure with this medication can help reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events, including heart attacks and strokes.
How to Take Valsartan Amlodipine
Valsartan Amlodipine is taken once per day. It can be taken with or without food, but if stomach upset occurs, taking it with food may be helpful. Consistency is important; try to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain steady levels.
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose. Never stop taking this medication abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this could cause your blood pressure to rise suddenly. The medication should be stored at room temperature, between 68°F to 77°F (20°C to 25°C), protected from moisture.
Possible Side Effects
Valsartan Amlodipine can cause various side effects, from common to more serious. Common side effects include dizziness, particularly when standing up quickly, and swelling in the legs and ankles. Headaches, fatigue, and cold-like symptoms have also been reported. These common side effects may lessen as the body adjusts to the medication.
More serious side effects require immediate medical attention. These can include signs of a severe allergic reaction, such as difficulty breathing, hives, or swelling of the face, lips, or throat. Symptoms of very low blood pressure, like feeling faint or lightheaded, can occur. Kidney problems, evidenced by changes in urine output, swelling, or feeling tired, or high potassium levels, which might present as muscle weakness, irregular heartbeats, or tingling, warrant prompt medical evaluation. In rare instances, chest pain may worsen or a heart attack could occur when first starting this medication.
Key Precautions
Before starting Valsartan Amlodipine, discuss your complete medical history with your doctor. This includes any history of heart failure, recent heart attack, kidney disease, or liver disease. Individuals with a history of angioedema (severe swelling) should also inform their healthcare provider. Using this medication during pregnancy can harm the unborn baby, so women of childbearing potential should use effective birth control.
Certain medications can interact with Valsartan Amlodipine, potentially affecting its effectiveness or increasing side effects. For example, potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium should be used with caution, as this medication can increase potassium levels. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) and lithium may also interact. Inform your doctor about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements you are currently taking. Regular blood and urine tests may be necessary to monitor the medication’s effects and check for side effects.