Dilart (Valsartan)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Dilart Used For?
Dilart is a medication that helps manage high blood pressure and improve heart function in patients with heart failure. It works by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
Primary Uses
Dilart is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart failure. It is also prescribed to reduce the risk of further heart problems after a heart attack.
How It Works
Dilart blocks the action of a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten, which helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow.
Good to know: Dilart is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Dilart
It is important to take Dilart exactly as prescribed by your doctor. This ensures the best results in managing your condition.
Dosage Instructions
For hypertension, the usual starting dose is 80 mg once daily. If blood pressure remains high after 4 weeks, your doctor may increase the dose to between 160 mg and 320 mg once daily. For heart failure, the starting dose is typically 40 mg taken twice daily, which may be increased to 160 mg twice daily. After a heart attack, treatment usually starts at 20 mg twice daily, with possible increases to 160 mg twice daily.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Important: Never double the dose to compensate for a missed one, as this may lead to unwanted side effects.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- headache
- dizziness
- tiredness
- diarrhea
- constipation
- muscle or joint pain
- abdominal pain
- nausea
- dry cough
- sore throat
- hoarse voice
- runny or blocked nose
- difficulty sleeping
- tingling or numbness in hands or feet
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- swelling of hands, feet, or limbs
- fast or irregular heartbeat
- shortness of breath
- chest pain
- severe dizziness
- liver disease symptoms (nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, yellowing of skin and eyes)
Important Warnings
There are important considerations to keep in mind before taking Dilart.
Who Should Not Take Dilart
Do not take Dilart if you are allergic to valsartan or any of its ingredients, are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, have severe liver problems, or are taking certain other blood pressure medications like aliskiren if you have type 2 diabetes.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have heart disease, kidney problems, liver issues, or are on diuretics or other blood pressure medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Dilart is not recommended during pregnancy as it may harm the unborn baby. It is also not advised for breastfeeding mothers, as it is unclear if valsartan passes into breast milk.
Drug Interactions
Some medications may interact with Dilart and affect its effectiveness.
- beta-blockers
- ACE inhibitors
- aliskiren
- diuretics
- potassium supplements
- lithium
- certain antibiotics like rifamycins
- anti-inflammatory medications like NSAIDs
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating vehicles while on Dilart.
Alcohol
Consult your doctor about alcohol use while taking Dilart, as it may increase side effects.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Dilart may cause dizziness or tiredness; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience these symptoms.
Storage
Store Dilart tablets in their original packaging at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include dizziness, fainting, rapid breathing, or cold, clammy skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
It may take at least 4 weeks for Dilart to have its full effect on blood pressure.
You can take Dilart with or without food, but it's best to take it the same way each day.
No, Dilart is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Dilart suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this may worsen your condition.
Consult your doctor about alcohol use, as it may increase side effects.
Weight gain is not listed as a common side effect of Dilart.
Elderly patients should discuss their health conditions with their doctor before taking Dilart.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if it's almost time for your next dose.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.