Valent (valsartan) is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist useful in lowering high blood pressure, reducing heart strain in congestive heart failure, and reducing mortality following a heart attack. It has also shown some benefit in treating Alzheimer's, but this is an off-label use at best and still largely experimental.

Valent can be used in patients age 6 and up, though it is rare that such young patients need the medication. In the majority of cases it is administered by tablet, but it also comes as an oral solution for patients reluctant or unable to take tablets.

Treatment Overview

Valent inhibits hormones which, among other things, cause blood vessels to become constricted and tight. These narrow blood vessels cause an increase in blood pressure. When the right chemicals are inhibited, blood vessels become relaxed and widened, which lowers blood pressure, improves oxygen delivery to the heart, and reduces the heart's overall workload.

It's important that a doctor be involved with treatment; from determining the ideal dosage to periodic checkups to ensure it's working as intended and monitor for developing side effects, a doctor is essential to treatment.

Valent comes in tablets, taken once or twice per day depending on what's being treated. Food is optional with each dose, but a full glass of fluid is recommended.

Guidelines for treating hypertension in adults:

• Treatment usually starts with 80 mg taken once per day.
• Dosage may be increased in increments of 40 to 80 mg every one to two weeks if needed.
• The maximum daily dose is 320 mg, taken once per day.
• In most cases adding an additional hypertension treatment, such as a diuretic, provides more benefit than increasing Diovan dosage past 80 or 160 mg per day.

And treating congestive heart failure in adults:

• Treatment usually starts with 80 mg per day, divided into two 40 mg doses taken morning and evening.
• Dosage may be increased after one to two weeks to 160 mg per day, taken in two 80 mg doses.
• For heart failure the ideal dose is 320 mg per day, divided into two 160 mg doses.
• Not all patients will be able to tolerate 320 mg doses without side effects; in these cases the highest tolerated dose is desirable.
• Do not exceed 320 mg per day.

Following a heart attack:

• Treatment usually starts with 40 mg per day, divided into two 20 mg doses.
• Dosage may be increased weekly up to 320 mg per day, divided into two 160 mg doses.

Doctor instructions may deviate from the above guidelines; doctor instructions should always be followed.

Results should be measurable after about two weeks of treatment, with maximum benefit being seen after one month. Patients rarely feel significantly different, as the conditions Valent treats often don't produce symptoms until a severe complication develops. It's important that Valent continue to be taken, even if feeling fine.

As a general rule, any medication that influences blood pressure should not be stopped abruptly; doing so can cause potentially serious complications. Speak with a doctor about a discontinuation plan before stopping treatment with Valent.

Side Effects

Patients should understand that no matter what Valent is prescribed for it will lower blood pressure. At the start of treatment side effects associated with lowered blood pressure are relatively common, including:

• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Mild confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue
• Nausea

The above symptoms are not cause for concern unless severe or persistent beyond the first couple weeks of treatment. In most cases they're mild and stop occurring as the body adjusts to its new blood pressure. The above symptoms can occur when blood pressure is lowered at all, even if it is still within normal ranges.

Unfortunately some individuals have more serious reactions to Valent. Warning signs that warrant immediate medical attention include:

• Severe confusion
• Weak heartbeat
• Rapid heartbeat
• Cold, clammy, and/or pale skin
• Fainting
• Vision changes

Certain other medications or medical conditions put patients at greater risk of experiencing serious side effects from Valent. Stay alert for warning signs if:

• Any other cardiovascular conditions are present
• There is any history of liver or kidney impairment
• Any other medications are being taken that influence blood pressure or heart rate

Discussing the above with a doctor prior to starting treatment with Valent is advisable. Double-checking with a doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication---including over-the-counter varieties---is also a good idea.