Valsartan Medications

Valsartan Info

What is Valsartan?

Valsartan belongs to the class of medicines called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs). These drugs help relax blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. Valsartan is the active ingredient in several UK-available products, most notably the combination medicine Entresto.

Medications with Valsartan

In the United Kingdom, the primary product that contains valsartan is Entresto, marketed as a fixed-dose combination of sacubitril and valsartan. It is supplied in tablet form, usually in strengths of 24 mg/26 mg, 49 mg/51 mg, and 97 mg/101 mg of sacubitril/valsartan respectively. While Entresto is the branded option, generic valsartan tablets are also authorised for other indications, but they are not listed here because the focus is on the medication that pairs valsartan with sacubitril.

What Does Valsartan Treat?

• Chronic heart failure (reduced ejection fraction) - Entresto is approved to improve outcomes for people whose heart’s pumping ability is weakened. By dilating blood vessels and reducing strain, it helps the heart work more efficiently.
• High blood pressure - As an ARB, valsartan alone can lower elevated blood pressure, decreasing the risk of cardiovascular events.
• Kidney protection in diabetes - Some ARBs, including valsartan, are used to slow kidney damage in people with type 2 diabetes, though Entpresto’s formulation is specifically licensed for heart failure.

These conditions are common in adult populations across the UK, and valsartan-based therapy is a standard part of modern cardiovascular care.

How Valsartan Works

Valsartan blocks the action of a hormone called angiotensin II, which normally tightens blood vessels and raises blood pressure. By preventing this hormone from binding to its receptors, valsartan allows the vessels to stay relaxed. In the combination product Entresto, sacubitril adds a complementary effect that promotes the removal of excess fluid, further supporting heart function. Effects are generally noticed within a few days, though full benefits in heart failure may develop over weeks.

Safety Information

Common Side Effects

• Mild dizziness or light-headedness, especially when first starting the medication or standing up quickly.
• Headache or tiredness, which often improve with continued use.
• Upper-respiratory symptoms such as a dry cough are less frequent with ARBs than with some other blood-pressure drugs.

These symptoms are usually temporary and do not require medical intervention unless they persist.

Serious Reactions

• Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which could signal a severe allergic reaction.
• Sudden difficulty breathing or wheezing.
• Marked drop in blood pressure leading to fainting.

If any of these signs appear, immediate medical attention is required.

Who Should Be Cautious

• People with a known allergy to valsartan, sacubitril, or any component of the tablet should avoid Entpresto.
• Individuals with severe liver disease or those who have had angio-edema linked to previous ARB or ACE-inhibitor therapy need special consideration.
• Pregnant women should not use valsartan-containing medicines, as they can harm the unborn baby.

Interaction Awareness

• Other blood-pressure medicines, especially ACE inhibitors or other ARBs, can increase the risk of low blood pressure.
• Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) may reduce the effectiveness of valsartan and increase kidney-related side effects.
• Alcohol can enhance dizziness; moderation is advised.
• Certain potassium-rich foods or supplements may raise blood potassium levels when taking valsartan.

For a full list of possible interactions, refer to the patient information leaflet that accompanies each product.

What to Know Before Using

Store Entresto tablets below 30 °C in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. The medication is usually prescribed for chronic use, but the length of therapy depends on the individual’s condition and the guidance on the product label. Because formulations and strengths differ, always read the specific information supplied with your prescribed medicine. For detailed usage, dosing, and administration, refer to your specific medication’s information.

Key Terms

Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB): A type of drug that prevents angiotensin II from narrowing blood vessels.

Ejection fraction: A measurement of how much blood the left ventricle pumps out with each beat; lower values indicate weaker heart function.

Sacubitril: The companion component in Entresto that helps the body get rid of excess fluid and sodium.

Important Notice

This article offers general educational information about valsartan as an active substance used in various medicines. Its purpose is to help patients better understand the ingredient and the conditions it is used to treat. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or for the specific instructions provided with individual products. Medicines containing valsartan may differ in formulation, strength, and directions for use. Always consult the labeling of your particular medication and follow your healthcare provider’s guidance for complete information on proper use, dosage, and safety.