#33: valsartan (Diovan) | Treating NSTEMI, STEMI, Heart Failure and Hypertension

Valsartan, also known as Diovan, is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It is used for treating NYHA class II to IV heart failure along with both treating and managing hypertension. Another common indication is for both STEMI and NSTEMI patients. Typical initiation dosing for heart failure, STEMI and NSTEMI is 20 mg twice daily with titrations up to 160 mg twice daily. When initiating treatment for hypertension the range begins at 80-160 mg po every day up to a max dose of 320 mg per day. Valsartan works by blocking AT2 from the AT1 receptor and is considered to be more efficient than ACEs along with having less side effects such a cough. Some common side effects are orthostatic hypotension, dizziness, and lightheadedness. Common monitoring parameters for valsartan are blood pressure, blood pressure urea, pregnancy, and electrolytes. Patients should avoid salt substitutes containing potassium. There is a black box warning for fetal toxicity because drugs that affect the renin-angiotensin system can cause injury/death to the fetus.

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