Monograph Details
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Cardiovascular System
> CHF and arrhythmias
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DIOVAN |
| Manufacturer |
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Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corp |
| Legal Classification |
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Rx
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| Pharmacological Class |
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Angiotensin II receptor blocker. |
| Generic Name |
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Valsartan 40mg+, 80mg, 160mg, 320mg; +scored; tabs. |
| Indications |
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Heart failure (NYHA Class II–IV). To reduce cardiovascular mortality in stable post-MI patients with left ventricular failure or dysfunction. |
| Children |
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Not recommended. |
| Adults |
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Heart failure: initially 40mg twice daily, increase to 80mg twice daily, then to 160mg twice daily as tolerated. Post-MI: may start 12hrs post-MI; initially 20mg twice daily, increase within 1 wk to 40mg twice daily; target maintenance: 160mg twice daily as tolerated. Low BP or renal dysfunction: reduce dose. |
| Contraindications |
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Pregnancy (Cat.D in 2nd and 3rd trimesters). |
| Precautions |
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Correct hypovolemia before beginning therapy (may need to reduce diuretic) or monitor closely for hypotension. Hepatic or severe renal impairment. Renal artery stenosis. Severe CHF (if renal function depends on renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system). Pregnancy (Cat.C in 1st trimester). Nursing mothers: not recommended. |
| Interactions |
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Concomitant K+ supplements, K+ sparing diuretics, K+ containing salt substitutes may lead to hyperkalemia and, in heart failure patients, increased serum creatinine. Concomitant ACE inhibitor and β-blocker (see literature regarding heart failure patients). |
| Adverse Reactions |
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Dizziness, hypotension, diarrhea, hyperkalemia, increased BUN, neutropenia, rhabdomyolysis (rare). |
| How Supplied |
Tabs 40mg—30
Tabs 80mg, 160mg, 320mg—90 |
| Additional Resources |
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• Related Prescribing Note |
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