Entresto (Sacubitril And Valsartan)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Entresto Used For?
Entresto is a medication used to manage heart failure in adults, helping to lower the risk of cardiovascular-related deaths and hospitalizations due to heart failure.
Primary Uses
Entresto is primarily used to treat a specific type of heart failure.
How It Works
Entresto combines sacubitril, which inhibits neprilysin, and valsartan, which blocks angiotensin II, leading to relaxed blood vessels and reduced fluid retention.
Good to know: Entresto is not addictive.
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How to Take Entresto
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take Entresto for optimal results.
Dosage Instructions
The usual starting dose is one 49 mg/51 mg tablet taken twice daily. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your response to treatment.
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. Do not double up.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed dose.
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:
- dizziness
- fainting
- light-headedness
- cough
- headache
- diarrhoea
- nausea
- stomach pain
- tiredness
- weakness
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
Important Warnings
Be aware of the following warnings before using Entresto.
Who Should Not Take Entresto
Do not use Entresto if you are allergic to its ingredients, are pregnant, have severe liver disease, or are taking certain other medications like ACE inhibitors.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have low blood pressure, kidney problems, or are taking medications that increase potassium levels.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not take Entresto if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. If you become pregnant while on this medication, inform your doctor immediately.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Entresto and affect its efficacy.
- ACE inhibitors
- ARBs
- Statins (e.g., atorvastatin)
- Sildenafil
- Potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., amiloride)
- NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen)
- Lithium
- Frusemide
- Metformin
- Certain antibiotics (e.g., rifampicin)
- Ciclosporin
- Ritonavir
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when consuming alcohol and operating vehicles or machinery while taking Entresto.
Alcohol
There are no known interactions between Entresto and alcohol.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Entresto may cause dizziness or tiredness, so be careful when driving or using machinery.
Storage
Store Entresto in a cool, dry place away from moisture, heat, and sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include dizziness or lightheadedness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Entresto may take several weeks to show its full effects in managing heart failure.
You can take Entresto with or without food.
No, Entresto is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Entresto suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may worsen your condition.
There are no known interactions between Entresto and alcohol, but use caution.
Weight gain is not a common side effect of Entresto, but monitor your health and discuss any concerns with your doctor.
Elderly patients should consult their doctor to ensure Entresto is safe for them, especially if they have other health conditions.
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.