Also Known as Co-Diovan
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Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Diovan HCTZ is a hypertension medication used to lower blood pressure and prevent complications like stroke or heart attack that can result from hypertension. It is a combination blood pressure lowering medication that contains the medications valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide. Valsartan is an ARB (angiotensin receptor blocker) drug that works buy relaxing the vessels so blood flows more easily and blood pressure is lowered. HCTZ is a diuretic that causes the patient to urinate more often to excrete more salt and water. You can buy Diovan HCT with a prescription here at Canpharm.
Fact Table | |
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Formula | Valsartan: C24H29N5O3 Hydrochlorothiazide: C7H8ClN3O4S2 |
License | FDA approved |
Bioavailability | Valsartan: ~25% Hydrochlorothiazide: 65–75% |
Legal status | Prescription Drug |
Chemical Name | Valsartan: (S)-N-(1-Oxopentyl)-N-[[2'-(1H-tetrazol-5-yl)[1,1'-biphenyl]-4-yl]methyl]-L-valine Hydrochlorothiazide: 6-Chloro-3,4-dihydro-2H-1,2,4-benzothiadiazine-7-sulfonamide-1,1-dioxide |
Elimination half-life | Valsartan: ~6 hours Hydrochlorothiazide: ~6–15 hours |
Dosage (Strength) | Combination strengths (Valsartan/HCTZ): 80mg/12.5mg, 160mg/12.5mg, 160mg/25mg, 320mg/12.5mg, 320mg/25mg |
Pregnancy | Contraindicated (Category D: risk to fetus, especially in second and third trimesters) |
Brands | Diovan HCT |
Protein binding | Valsartan: ~95% Hydrochlorothiazide: ~40–70% |
PubChem CID | Valsartan: 60846 Hydrochlorothiazide: 3639 |
MedlinePlus | a601045 |
ChEBI | Valsartan: 9927 Hydrochlorothiazide: 5778 |
ATC code | C09DA03 |
DrugBank | Valsartan: DB00177 Hydrochlorothiazide: DB00999 |
KEGG | Valsartan: D00555 Hydrochlorothiazide: D00347 |
Routes of administration | By mouth |
Standard dosage for this Diovan medication is to take tablet 1x daily with or without food. Take at least 4 hours before bedtime because of the diuretic effect
If you are taking cholesterol-lowering drugs you will need to take your Diovan HCT at least 4 hours before or 6 hours after taking those medications
The active ingredients in Diovan HCTZ are Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide
Let your doctor know of any history of gout, kidney disease, liver disease, lupus, dehydration, electrolyte imbalances, or skin cancer before beginning on Diovan HCTZ
Use of this medication may make you dizzy, and severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting can increase these effects
Patients with diabetes should be aware that this medication may affect your blood sugar levels. You may need to adjust your diabetes management regimen if you are using Diovan generic
There is the possibility of drug interaction risks between Diovan HCTZ and other Rx or OTC medications, including aliskiren, dofetilide, lithium, benazepril, lisinopril, drospirenone, ibuprofen, and naproxen. Let your doctor know of all medications you are currently taking before getting a prescription and proceeding to buy Diovan HCT online.
Diovan HCT side effects may occur, and some users may experience dizziness, light headedness, dehydration or electrolyte imbalance. If side effects are seen then you may want to discontinue use and meet with a doctor again to discuss hypertension treatment medication alternatives.
What is Diovan HCTZ used for?
Diovan HCTZ (valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide) is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and may also be used to treat heart failure.
How does Diovan HCTZ work?
Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that helps relax blood vessels, while hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that helps remove excess salt and water from the body, both of which help lower blood pressure.
How should Diovan HCTZ be taken?
Diovan HCTZ is usually taken once daily, with or without food, at the same time each day, as prescribed by your doctor.
What are the side effects of Diovan HCTZ?
Common side effects include dizziness, headache, fatigue, or dehydration. Serious side effects may include low blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, and kidney problems.
How long does it take for Diovan HCTZ to work?
Diovan HCTZ typically starts lowering blood pressure within a few hours, with full effects generally seen after a few weeks of consistent use.
Who should not take Diovan HCTZ?
Diovan HCTZ should not be taken by individuals with a history of allergic reactions to valsartan, hydrochlorothiazide, or sulfonamides, or those with severe kidney problems or dehydration.
Can Diovan HCTZ interact with other medications?
Yes, Diovan HCTZ can interact with other blood pressure medications, diuretics, lithium, and medications that affect potassium levels. Always inform your doctor about other medications you're taking.
Can Diovan HCTZ cause potassium imbalances?
Yes, Diovan HCTZ can cause low potassium (hypokalemia) or high potassium (hyperkalemia), which can lead to muscle cramps, weakness, and heart issues. Potassium levels should be monitored.
How should Diovan HCTZ be stored?
Store Diovan HCTZ at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light, and keep it out of the reach of children.
Can I stop taking Diovan HCTZ suddenly?
Do not stop taking Diovan HCTZ suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may cause a sudden increase in blood pressure or other health complications.