AMLODIPINE; VALSARTAN (am LOE di peen; val SAR tan) treats high blood pressure. It works by relaxing blood vessels, which decreases the amount of work the heart has to do. It is a combination of a calcium channel blocker and an ARB.
What should I tell my care team before I take this medication?
They need to know if you have any of these conditions:
Heart disease
Kidney disease
Liver disease
An unusual or allergic reaction to amlodipine, valsartan, other medications, foods, dyes, or preservatives
Pregnant or trying to get pregnant
Breastfeeding
How should I use this medication?
Take this medication by mouth. Take it as directed on the prescription label at the same time every day. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Keep taking it unless your care team tells you to stop.
Talk to your care team about the use of this medication in children. Special care may be needed.
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.
What may interact with this medication?
Do not take this medication with any of the following:
Sparsentan
Tranylcypromine
This medication may also interact with the following:
Aliskiren
Antivirals for HIV or hepatitis
Certain antibiotics, such as clarithromycin or rifampin
Certain medications for cholesterol, such as simvastatin
Cyclosporine
Diuretics
Lithium
Medications for fungal infections, such as ketoconazole or itraconazole
NSAIDS, medications for pain and inflammation, such as ibuprofen or naproxen
Other medications for blood pressure
Potassium supplements
What side effects may I notice from receiving this medication?
Side effects that you should report to your care team as soon as possible:
Allergic reactions—skin rash, itching, hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
Heart attack—pain or tightness in the chest, shoulders, arms, or jaw, nausea, shortness of breath, cold or clammy skin, feeling faint or lightheaded
High potassium level—muscle weakness, fast or irregular heartbeat
Kidney injury—decrease in the amount of urine, swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
Low blood pressure—dizziness, feeling faint or lightheaded, blurry vision
Worsening chest pain (angina)—pain, pressure, or tightness in the chest, neck, back, or arms
Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your care team if they continue or are bothersome):
Constipation
Facial flushing, redness
Fatigue
Headache
Nausea
Stomach pain
Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet
What should I watch for while using this medication?
Visit your care team for regular checks on your progress. Check your blood pressure as directed. Know what your blood pressure should be and when to contact your care team.
This medication may affect your coordination, reaction time, or judgment. Do not drive or operate machinery until you know how this medication affects you. Sit up or stand slowly to reduce the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Drinking alcohol with this medication can increase the risk of these side effects.
Make sure you stay hydrated while taking this medication. Drink water often. Eat fruits and veggies with lots of water. Drink more water when it is hot or you are active. Talk to your care team right away if you have severe diarrhea, nausea or vomiting, or if you sweat a lot.
If you are going to need surgery or a procedure, tell your care team that you are taking this medication.
Avoid salt substitutes unless you are told otherwise by your care team.
Discuss this medication with your care team if you may be pregnant. Serious birth defects can occur if you take this medication during the second and third trimesters. Discuss other treatment options with your care team. There are benefits and risks to taking medications during pregnancy. Your care team can help you find the option that works for you.
Where should I keep my medication?
Keep out of the reach of children and pets.
Store at room temperature between 20 and 25 degrees C (68 and 77 degrees F). Protect from moisture. Keep the container tightly closed. Get rid of any unused medication after the expiration date.
To get rid of medications that are no longer needed or have expired:
Take the medication to a medication take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
If you cannot return the medication, check the label or package insert to see if the medication should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your care team. If it is safe to put it in the trash, empty the medication out of the container. Mix the medication with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.
K Health articles are all written and reviewed by MDs, PhDs, NPs, or PharmDs and are for informational purposes only. This information does not constitute and should not be relied on for professional medical advice. Always talk to your doctor about the risks and benefits of any treatment.
This information is educational only and should not be construed as specific instructions for individual patients nor as a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Talk to your health care provider or pharmacist about the information and instructions. K Health assumes no liability for any use or reliance on this information.
