Brand name:
Valzaar - VALZAAR (Diovan, Valsartan)
Pronounced: DYE-oh-van
Generic name: Valsartan
Other brand name: Valzaar Free Rx HCT
Why is Valzaar Free Rx prescribed?

Valzaar Free Rx is one of a new class of blood pressure medications called angiotensin II receptor antagonists. Valzaar Free Rx works by preventing the hormone angiotensin II from narrowing the blood vessels, which tends to raise blood pressure. Valzaar Free Rx may be prescribed alone or with other blood pressure medications, such as diuretics that help the body get rid of excess water. Valzaar Free Rx HCT provides just such a combination. It contains Valzaar Free Rx plus the common diuretic hydrochlorothiazide.

Valzaar Free Rx also has a stimulative effect on the heart and is prescribed for heart failure in patients who can't tolerate another type of medication called ACE inhibitors.
Most important fact about Valzaar Free Rx

You must take Valzaar Free Rx regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Valzaar Free Rx, and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Valzaar Free Rx does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take Valzaar Free Rx?

Valzaar Free Rx and Valzaar Free Rx HCT can be taken with or without food. Try to get in the habit of taking the medicine at the same time each day--for example, before or after breakfast. You'll be less likely to forget your dose.

If you miss a dose VALZAAR (Diovan, Valsartan)

Take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature. Keep in a tightly closed container, away from moisture.
Valzaar Free Rx side effects

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Valzaar Free Rx or Valzaar Free Rx HCT.

* Side effects may include:
Abdominal pain, allergic reactions, back pain, blurred vision, cough, diarrhea, dizziness, fainting, fatigue, headache, joint pain, low blood pressure, nausea, runny nose, sinus inflammation, sore throat, swelling, swollen mouth and throat, upper respiratory infections, vertigo, viral infections

Why should Valzaar Free Rx not be prescribed?

Do not take Valzaar Free Rx or Valzaar Free Rx HCT while pregnant. Avoid both drugs if they cause an allergic reaction, and do not take Valzaar Free Rx HCT if you have ever had an allergic reaction to a Sulfa drug such as Bactrim or Septra. Also avoid Valzaar Free Rx HCT if you have trouble urinating.
Special warnings about Valzaar Free Rx

In rare cases, Valzaar Free Rx and Valzaar Free Rx HCT can cause a severe drop in blood pressure. The problem is more likely if your body's supply of water has been depleted by high doses of diuretics. Symptoms include light-headedness or faintness, and are more likely when you first start taking the drug. Valzaar Free Rx HCT can also cause dry mouth, weakness, drowsiness, muscle cramps, nausea, and vomiting. Call your doctor if any of these symptoms occur. You may need to have your dosage adjusted.

Use Valzaar Free Rx HCT with caution if you have a history of allergy or bronchial asthma, or suffer from the condition called lupus erythematosus. Report a rapid or irregular pulse to your doctor.

If you have liver or kidney disease, Valzaar Free Rx and Valzaar Free Rx HCT must be used with caution. Be sure the doctor is aware of either problem. Also let the doctor know if you suffer from gout or diabetes.

The safety and effectiveness of Valzaar Free Rx and Valzaar Free Rx HCT have not been studied in children.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking Valzaar Free Rx

Check with your doctor before combining Valzaar Free Rx with salt substitutes that contain potassium, or with diuretics that leave potassium in the body, including the following:

Amiloride (Midamor)
Spironolactone (Aldactone)
Triamterene (Dyrenium)

The hydrochlorothiazide in Valzaar Free Rx HCT may interact with a variety of drugs. Be sure to check with your doctor before combining Valzaar Free Rx HCT with the following:

Alcohol
Cholestyramine (Questran)
Colestipol (Colestid)
Corticosteroids such as hydrocortisone and prednisone
Glipizide (Glucotrol)
Glyburide (Diabeta, Micronase)
Insulin
Lithium (Lithobid, Lithonate)
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as Advil, Aleve, Motin, and Naprosyn
Other blood pressure medications such as Cardizem, Lopressor, and Procardia
Phenobarbital
Narcotic drugs such as morphine or codeine products
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

Drugs such as Valzaar Free Rx and Valzaar Free Rx HCT can cause injury or even death to the unborn child when used during the last 6 months of pregnancy. As soon as you find out that you're pregnant, stop taking the drug and call your doctor. Both of these drugs may also appear in breast milk and could affect the nursing infant. If the medication is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you to avoid breastfeeding while you are taking Valzaar Free Rx or Valzaar Free Rx HCT.
Recommended dosage for Valzaar Free Rx

Valzaar Free Rx
Overdosage

There has been little experience with overdosage. However, the most likely results would be extremely low blood pressure and an abnormally slow or rapid heartbeat. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.