AMLODIPINE; VALSARTAN (am LOE di peen; val SAR tan) is a combination of a calcium channel blocker and an angiotensin II receptor blocker. It treats high blood pressure.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
heart failure, recent heart attack, or other heart problems
kidney disease
liver disease
an unusual or allergic reaction to amlodipine, valsartan, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
pregnant or trying to get pregnant
breast-feeding
How should I use this medication?
Take this drug by mouth. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Keep taking it unless your health care provider tells you to stop.
Talk to your health care provider about the use of this drug in children. Special care may be needed.
What if I miss a dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.
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CHAT NOWWhat may interact with this medication?
ACE inhibitors like captopril, enalapril, or lisinopril
aliskiren
angiotensin II blockers (ARBs) like candesartan, losartan, or telmisartan
cyclosporine
heparin
lithium
NSAIDS, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen
potassium supplements
rifampin
ritonavir
salt substitutes
sildenafil
simvastatin
some diuretics like amiloride, spironolactone, triamterene
tacrolimus
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:
allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives, swelling of the face, lips, or tongue
breathing problems
chest pain
confusion
fast, irregular heartbeat
feeling faint or lightheaded, falls
low blood pressure
swelling of the hands, ankles, or feet
trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):
change in sex drive or performance
cough
diarrhea
flushing of face, skin
headache
nausea, vomiting
stomach gas, pain
weak or tired
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Check your blood pressure as directed. Ask your doctor or health care professional what your blood pressure should be and when you should contact him or her.
Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.
You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol may interfere with the effect of this medicine. Avoid alcoholic drinks.
If you are going to have surgery, tell your prescriber or health care professional that you are taking this medicine.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Keep the container tightly closed. Throw away any unused drug after the expiration date.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.