DRUGS AND SUPPLEMENTS

Valsartan, Aliskiren Hemifumarate Oral tablet

March 22, 2017

Valsartan, Aliskiren Hemifumarate Oral tablet

What is this medicine?

ALISKIREN; VALSARTAN (a lis KYE ren; val SAR tan) is a combination of a renin inhibitor and an angiotensin II antagonist. It is used to treat high blood pressure.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on your prescription label. You may take this medicine with or without food, but try to take it the same way every time. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take more medicine than directed. Do not stop taking this medicine except on the advice of your doctor or health care professional.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

  • allergic reactions like skin rash or hives, swelling of the hands, feet, face, lips, throat, or tongue

  • breathing problems

  • confusion

  • fast, irregular heartbeat

  • feeling faint or lightheaded, falls

  • fever or sore throat

  • gout pain

  • low blood pressure

  • pain, tingling, numbness in the hands or feet

  • seizures

  • skin rash, itching

  • trouble passing urine or change in the amount of urine

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (Report these to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome.):

  • change in sex drive or performance

  • cough

  • diarrhea

  • headache

  • nausea

  • stomach upset

  • tired

What may interact with this medicine?

  • atorvastatin

  • cyclosporine

  • diuretics, especially triamterene, spironolactone or amiloride

  • furosemide

  • irbesartan

  • ketoconazole

  • other medicines for high blood pressure

  • potassium supplements

  • rifampin

  • ritonavir

  • salt substitutes with potassium

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 15 and 30 degrees C (59 and 86 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Keep container tightly closed. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

  • dehydration

  • diabetes

  • kidney disease

  • heart failure

  • liver disease

  • an unusual or allergic reaction to aliskiren, valsartan, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

  • pregnant or trying to get pregnant

  • breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular checks on your progress. Check your blood pressure as directed. Ask your doctor or health care professional what your blood pressure should be and when you should contact him or her.

Do not take this medicine if you have diabetes. Talk to your doctor or health care professional for more information.

Women should inform their doctor if they wish to become pregnant or think they might be pregnant. There is a potential for serious side effects to an unborn child. Talk to your health care professional or pharmacist for more information.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

Avoid salt substitutes unless you are told otherwise by your doctor or health care professional.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are taking this medicine without asking your doctor or health care professional for advice. Some ingredients may increase your blood pressure.

Updated:  

March 22, 2017