Warnings


What may interact with Diovan?


-aliskiren
-ACE inhibitors, like enalapril or lisinopril
-diuretics, especially amiloride, eplerenone, spironolactone, or triamterene
-lithium
-NSAIDs, medicines for pain and inflammation, like ibuprofen or naproxen
-potassium salts or potassium supplements

What should I tell my health care provider before I take Diovan?

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

-heart failure
-kidney disease
-liver disease
-an unusual or allergic reaction to valsartan, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives
-pregnant or trying to get pregnant
-breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using Diovan?

Visit your health care provider for regular checks on your progress. Check your blood pressure as directed. Ask your health care provider what your blood pressure should be. Also, find out when you should contact him or her.
Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are taking this medicine without asking your health care provider for advice. Some medicines may increase your blood pressure.
Women should inform their health care provider 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 provider 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 medicine 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 health care provider.

Where should I keep my medicine?

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 medicine after the expiration date.
To get rid of medicines that are no longer needed or have expired:

-Take the medicine to a medicine take-back program. Check with your pharmacy or law enforcement to find a location.
-If you cannot return the medicine, check the label or package insert to see if the medicine should be thrown out in the garbage or flushed down the toilet. If you are not sure, ask your health care provider. If it is safe to put it in the trash, take the medicine out of the container. Mix the medicine with cat litter, dirt, coffee grounds, or other unwanted substance. Seal the mixture in a bag or container. Put it in the trash.