Prescribed by Most Doctors To Treat High Blood Pressure or Hypertension

Amlodipine – Valsartan is a prescription medication. It’s a single pill combination of a calcium channel blocker (CCB) and an angiotensin receptor blocker. It is prescribed by most doctors for the treatment of high blood pressure or hypertension. High blood pressure adds up to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the arteries and the heart won’t function properly. This can cause damages to the heart, blood vessels, brain, kidney and other parts of the body.

Amlodipine is a CCB or a calcium channel blocker. It works by relaxing the muscles in the blood vessels and the heart. Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist. It works by blocking the action of the angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a natural chemical in the body responsible for the tightening and the narrowing of the blood vessels in the body. Blocking the angiotensin II relaxes the blood vessels thus lowering the blood pressure and increasing the supply of oxygen to the heart.

How to use Amlodipine-Valsartan?

Amlodipine – Valsartan comes in an oral tablet that you need to take by mouth. The dose of this medication is based on the following:

• Your condition
• Severity of your condition
• Your age
• Your reaction to the initial dose

The usual initial dose for an adult is 5 mg amlodipine/160 mg valsartan per day. Your doctor may increase your dose if the blood pressure is not controlled after a week of medication. The maximum dose is 10 mg amlodipine/320 mg valsartan per day. For senior age 65 years and above, their dose is lower compared with an adult dose. The use

Take this medication exactly as prescribed. Take it with a glass of water with or without food. For a missed dose, take it as soon as you remember. Your blood pressure may increase and cause side effects if you stop taking this medication all of a sudden.

What are the side effects of Amlodipine – Valsartan?

Some of the common side effects are:

• Sore throat
• Dizziness
• Swelling of the ankles, hand and feet
• Chest cold
• Nasal congestions

Serious side effects are:

• Kidney problems with signs like unexplained weight gain
• Heart attack with symptoms such as a rapid heartbeat, shortness of breath, chest pain and discomfort in the upper part of the body
• Low blood pressure with symptoms like chest pain and dizziness

Important Information

• Amlodipine-Valsartan may increase your potassium level. Consult your doctor first before consuming any potassium supplements.
• This drug can cause low blood pressure if you take diuretics or on a low-salt diet or you’re getting a dialysis treatment.
• Do not take Amlodipine-Valsartan if you are pregnant.
• Do not take this drug if you are allergic to any of its active ingredient.
• Limit your alcohol intake while using this medication.