IMPORTANT DIOVAN WARNING:

Why is Diovan prescribed?

Valsartan (Diovan) is used to treat high blood pressure. Diovan blocks the action of certain chemicals that tighten the blood vessels, so blood flows more smoothly.

Diovan is sometimes prescribed for other uses; ask your doctor or pharmacist for more Diovan information.

How should Diovan be used?

Valsartan (Diovan) comes as a capsule to take by mouth. Diovan is usually taken once a day. Follow the Diovan directions on your Diovan prescription label carefully, and ask your doctor or pharmacist to explain any part you do not understand. Take valsartan (Diovan) exactly as directed. Do not take more or less Diovan or take Diovan more often than prescribed by your doctor.

Valsartan (Diovan) controls high blood pressure but does not cure it. Continue to take valsartan (Diovan) even if you feel well. Do not stop taking valsartan (Diovan) without talking to your doctor.

Other uses for Diovan

Valsartan (Diovan) is sometimes used to treat congestive heart failure. Talk to your doctor about the possible risks of using Diovan for your condition.

What special Diovan precautions should I follow?

Before taking valsartan (Diovan),

• tell your doctor and pharmacist if you are allergic to valsartan (Diovan), candesartan (Atacand), benazepril (Lotensin), captopril (Capoten), enalapril (Vasotec), fosinopril (Monopril), hydrochlorothiazide (HydroDIURIL), irbesartan (Avapro), lisinopril (Prinivil, Zestril), losartan (Cozaar), moexipril (Univasc), quinapril (Accupril), ramipril (Altace), sulfas, telmisartan (Micardis), trandolapril (Mavik), or any other drugs.
• tell your doctor and pharmacist what prescription and nonprescription medications you are taking, especially barbiturates; cholestyramine (Questran); colestipol (Colestid); diuretics (water pills); lithium (Eskalith, Lithobid); medications for diabetes; nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory medications (ibuprofen [Motrin, Advil], naproxen [Naprosyn, Aleve], and others); other medications for high blood pressure; potassium supplements; and vitamins.
• tell your doctor if you have or have ever had heart, kidney, or liver disease or diabetes.
• if you are having surgery, including dental surgery, tell the doctor or dentist that you are taking valsartan (Diovan).
• you should know that Diovan may make you drowsy. Do not drive a car or operate machinery until you know how valsartan (Diovan) will affect you.
• remember that alcohol can add to the drowsiness caused by Diovan.

What special Diovan dietary instructions should I follow?

Talk to your doctor before using salt substitutes containing potassium. If your doctor prescribes a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow these Diovan directions carefully.

What should I do if I forget a Diovan dose?

Take the missed Diovan dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for the next Diovan dose, skip the missed Diovan dose and continue your regular Diovan dosing schedule. Do not take a double Diovan dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can Diovan cause?

Although side effects from valsartan (Diovan) are not common, they can occur. Tell your doctor if any of these Diovan symptoms are severe or do not go away:

• dizziness
• lightheadedness
• congestion
• cough
• diarrhea
• trouble sleeping
• headache
• muscle aches
• fever
• sore throat
• runny nose
• excessive tiredness

If you experience any of the following Diovan symptoms, call your doctor immediately:

• swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, arms, or legs
• difficulty breathing or swallowing
• fainting
• rash

What storage conditions are needed for Diovan?

Keep Diovan in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Store Diovan at room temperature and away from excess heat and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any Diovan that is outdated or no longer needed. Talk to your pharmacist about the proper disposal of your Diovan.

In case of Diovan emergency/overdose

In case of Diovan overdose, call your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. If the victim has collapsed or is not breathing, call local emergency services at 911.

What other Diovan information should I know?

Keep all appointments with your doctor and the laboratory. Your blood pressure should be checked regularly to determine your response to valsartan (Diovan).

Do not let anyone else take your Diovan. Ask your pharmacist any Diovan questions you have about refilling your Diovan prescription.