(Click Valturna Uses for more information on what this medication is used for, including possible off-label indications.)
Valturna is made by Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation.
Valturna contains two different medications that work in different ways.
Both medicines target the renin angiotensin aldosterone system (RAAS), but they work at different points in the process. The RAAS is an important regulator of
blood pressure in the body.
Aliskiren is classified as a renin inhibitor. It is the first medication of its kind. Renin is an enzyme produced in the kidneys that acts throughout the body. It works to convert angiotensinogen to angiotensin I.
A different enzyme (angiotensin-converting enzyme, or ACE) then converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II, a powerful substance that increases blood pressure by narrowing blood vessels and indirectly stimulating the kidneys to retain salt.
Valsartan belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers. By blocking angiotensin II, this drug helps to relax the blood vessels, thereby
lowering blood pressure.
When and How to Take This Medication
Some general considerations to keep in mind when taking Valturna include the following:
- Valturna comes in tablet form. It is usually taken by mouth once a day.
- You should consistently take Valturna either with or without food, since food can affect the absorption of the medication. Always try to take your dose the same way with regard to meals.
- Although it does not matter when you take this medication, it is a good idea to take it at the same time each day.
- For this drug to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Valturna will not work if you stop taking it.
Valturna Dosing Information
The dose of Valturna your healthcare provider recommends will vary, depending on a number of factors, including:
- The severity of your high blood pressure
- How you respond to the medication
- Other medications you are taking
- Other medical conditions you have.
As always, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically tells you to do so.
Just like any medicine, Valturna may cause side effects. However, not everyone who takes the drug will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can be treated easily by you or your healthcare provider. Serious reactions are less common.
Some of the most common side effects seen with Valturna include but are not limited to:
- High potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia)
- Fatigue
- Common cold symptoms (such as a sore throat and runny nose)
- Diarrhea.
(Click Valturna Side Effects to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.)
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medicine if you have:
- Kidney disease, such as kidney failure (renal failure)
- Liver problems, such as liver failure or cirrhosis
- Heart problems, especially congestive heart failure (CHF) or a recent heart attack
- High blood potassium (hyperkalemia)
- Any allergies, including to food, dyes, or preservatives.
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and nonprescription medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
What If I Overdose on Valturna?
An overdose is likely to cause dangerously low
blood pressure (hypotension), a rapid heart rate (tachycardia), a slow heart rate (bradycardia), and other serious problems. If you happen to take too much Valturna, seek immediate medical attention.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Valturna?
If you forget to take Valturna, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, simply skip the one you missed and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
This medication should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture. Keep this and all medications out of the reach of children and pets.
Valturna tablets come in the following strengths:
- Valturna 150/160 mg
- Valturna 300/320 mg.
The first number (150 or 300 mg) is the
aliskiren strength. The second number (160 or 320 mg) is the
valsartan strength.
Can I Buy Generic Valturna?
This medication is not available in generic form
(see Generic Valturna for more information).
