Exforge (Valsartan And Amlodipine Besilate)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Exforge Used For?
Exforge is a medication that combines two active ingredients, Valsartan and Amlodipine Besilate, to help manage high blood pressure.
Primary Uses
Exforge is primarily used to treat high blood pressure in patients whose condition is not adequately controlled by either ingredient alone.
How It Works
Valsartan works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a substance that narrows blood vessels, thus relaxing them and lowering blood pressure. Amlodipine Besilate reduces calcium movement into heart and blood vessel cells, leading to relaxation of blood vessels and decreased heart workload.
Good to know: Exforge is not considered addictive.
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How to Take Exforge
It is important to follow your doctor's instructions when taking Exforge.
Dosage Instructions
The typical dosage is one tablet per day. Your doctor may adjust this based on your response to treatment.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at once.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.
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
- Nausea
- Dry cough
- Sore throat
- Muscle or joint pain
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/eyes)
Important Warnings
There are several important considerations to keep in mind before using Exforge.
Who Should Not Take Exforge
Do not use Exforge if you are allergic to Valsartan, Amlodipine Besilate, or any of its ingredients. It is also contraindicated in pregnant women, those with severe kidney disease, liver problems, or those taking certain other medications.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Discuss with your doctor if you have kidney issues, liver problems, heart conditions, or if you have experienced swelling while on other medications.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Exforge should not be taken during pregnancy or if you plan to become pregnant. Consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding, as it is unknown if the active ingredients pass into breast milk.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Exforge, affecting its efficacy.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can affect how Exforge works.
- Other blood pressure medications (e.g., diuretics, ACE inhibitors, beta blockers)
- Simvastatin
- Rifamycins
- Cyclosporin
- Ritonavir
- Potassium supplements
- Anticonvulsants (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin)
- NSAIDs
- Dantrolene
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when consuming alcohol or operating machinery while on Exforge.
Alcohol
Limit alcohol intake as it may increase side effects such as dizziness and drowsiness.
Driving and Operating Machinery
If you experience dizziness or tiredness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery.
Storage
Store Exforge in its original packaging in a cool, dry place below 30°C, 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, or rapid breathing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Exforge typically starts to lower blood pressure within a few hours, but it may take several weeks to see the full benefits.
You can take Exforge with or without food, but it's best to take it the same way every day.
No, Exforge is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Exforge without consulting your doctor, as this may cause your blood pressure to rise.
It's advisable to limit alcohol intake while taking Exforge, as it may increase side effects.
Weight gain is not a common side effect of Exforge, but if you experience significant changes, consult your doctor.
Elderly patients should consult their doctor to ensure Exforge is safe for them, especially if they have other health conditions.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it's close to your next dose. Do not double up.
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.