Diovan Overdose: An Overview
Diovan® (
valsartan) is a prescription medication used to
treat high blood pressure and
congestive heart failure, as well as to help improve survival following a
heart attack. Although it is rare, a person can overdose on Diovan just like any other medicine. The effects of a Diovan overdose will vary depending on a number of factors, including how much Diovan was taken and whether it was taken with any other medicines, alcohol, and/or drugs.
If you began treatment with Diovan and overdosed, and/or believe you may have overdosed, seek medical attention immediately.
Symptoms of a Diovan Overdose
Diovan overdose signs or symptoms can vary, but may include:
- Extremely low blood pressure
- Dizziness
- Increased heart rate
- Increased levels of potassium in the blood
- Kidney failure
- Loss of consciousness.
Treatment for a Diovan Overdose
The treatment for a Diovan overdose will vary.
If the Diovan overdose was recent, the healthcare provider may give certain medicines or place a tube into the stomach to "pump the stomach." However, there is no readily available treatment that can remove Diovan quickly once it has been absorbed into the body. Therefore, in these cases, treatment involves supportive care. This type of care consists of treating the symptoms that occur as a result of the overdose. For example, supportive treatment options for a Diovan overdose may include:
- Fluids through an intravenous line (IV)
- Medications to increase blood pressure
- Other treatments based on the complications that occur
- Closely monitoring the heart and lungs.
It is important that you seek medical attention immediately if you believe that you may have overdosed on Diovan.
