What are the Side Effects of Valsartan?

Valsartan is a prescription medication that is commonly used in the treatment of high blood pressure and congestive heart failure. Though valsartan is generally considered to be a safe and effective medication, there are a number of side effects that do exist. One of the most common side effects of valsartan use is dizziness, especially for patients who have been diagnosed with congestive heart failure. In addition, the medication commonly results in increased blood potassium levels, fatigue, stomach pain, and chronic cough. Some patients who take valsartan may also develop an increased rate of infection. This is especially dangerous for patients who already have a weakened immune system.

One of the most common side effects of valsartan is dizziness. Studies have found that as many as eight percent of people who take this medication in order to treat the symptoms of high blood pressure may experience dizziness as a side effect of the medication. In contrast, approximately 17 percent of those who take valsartan in order to prevent heart failure experience dizziness upon taking the medication. Those who are taking this medication and experience severe dizziness are typically encouraged to seek medical help as soon as possible in order to prevent dangerous complications.

Another of the common side effects of valsartan includes an increase in blood potassium levels. This occurs most often in patients who are taking valsartan in order to prevent congestive heart failure. Patients who are taking the medication in order to treat or prevent high blood pressure may also experience an increase in blood potassium levels, though the percentage of patients who develop this condition is substantially lower.

An increase in the prevalence of infection is also occurs commonly in patients who have been prescribed valsartan. Infections associated with the common cold can often result in serious complications, especially for individuals who have been diagnosed with pre-existing heart conditions such as congestive heart failure. These patients are typically encouraged to avoid situations where infection rates may be high.

Common side effects of valsartan also include minor conditions, such as fatigue, stomach pain, and a chronic cough that does not go away. Often, since these symptoms are relatively minor, they are not always identified as being linked to valsartan use. Patients who notice an increase in the intensity or occurrence of these symptoms may require medical assistance, especially if the symptoms remain after discontinuation of the medication.