DIOVAN HCT (VALSARTAN/HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE)

Diovan HCT Description

If you are diagnosed with hypertension, also known as high blood pressure, your doctor may prescribe Diovan HCT or generic Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide. This medication is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) that you may have to take on an ongoing basis to maintain healthy blood pressure levels. The generic alternative is not made by the company that makes the brand product.

How These 2 Active Ingredients Work

Valsartan, the main active ingredient, works by blocking a hormone called angiotensin II. This hormone is normally responsible for regulating your blood pressure; but certain medical conditions such as not eating healthy and being obese can interfere with this. Your blood vessels may become constricted and blood flow is hampered so your heart is not able to pump a proper supply of oxygenated blood to your tissues and other organs. Diovan relaxes your blood vessels and restores blood flow so your pressure is reduced.

Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that stops your body from retaining fluid and absorbing salt by increasing your urine output. The generic alternative is not made by the company that makes the brand product.

Conditions Treated by Diovan HCT

Hypertension can go undetected unless diagnosed during a routine physical exam or if you have a heart attack or stroke. This is why it is so important to have your blood pressure checked regularly. Your heart cannot pump out a steady supply of blood if it is not receiving a steady supply. This could result in a stroke if your brain becomes starved from a lack of oxygenated blood. The risk of a heart attack increases as well if this essential muscle struggles to keep pumping.

Your diet may be suspect if you have hypertension because the walls of your arteries are starting to thicken with plaque buildup. If you have already had a heart attack, your doctor may want to place a stent or stents in one or more of your arteries to open it wider to be certain your heart is not at risk for more damage. Your doctor may also recommend that you lose weight, exercise, stop smoking, and change your diet.

Before Diovan HCT is Prescribed

You should use an effective birth control method while taking Diovan HCT to prevent any harmful effects to an unborn baby. Discuss your medical history with your doctor to be certain any allergies or medical conditions you have will not interact negatively with Diovan HCT. List any current OTC and Rx medications, including herbal remedies and vitamin or dietary supplements as combining any of them with Diovan HCT could cause unintended side effects or change how Diovan HCT will work in your body.

Diovan HCT Precautions

See your doctor if you experience a sore throat, cold or flu symptoms, blurred vision, or have difficulty swallowing while taking Diovan HCT. Until you know how Diovan HCT will affect you, use caution when operating a vehicle or taking part in any activities that require you to be alert.

Possible Side Effects of Diovan HCT

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Cough