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CARDIOVASCULAR SYSTEM › AGENTS ACTING ON THE RENIN-ANGIOTENSIN SYSTEM › ANGIOTENSIN II RECEPTOR BLOCKERS (ARBs), COMBINATIONS › Angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs) and calcium channel blockers
valsartan and amlodipine
C09DB01
Forms & Strengths
- Oral tablet: 160 mg valsartan / 5 mg amlodipine
- Oral tablet: 160 mg valsartan / 10 mg amlodipine
- Oral tablet: 320 mg valsartan / 5 mg amlodipine
- Oral tablet: 320 mg valsartan / 10 mg amlodipine
- Oral tablet: 80 mg valsartan / 5 mg amlodipine
Adult Dosing
- Initial therapy: Not recommended for initial therapy
- Add-on/Switch therapy: One tablet once daily, selecting strength based on component titration
- Maximum dose: 320 mg valsartan / 10 mg amlodipine once daily
Pediatric Dosing
- Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established
Indications
- Treatment of hypertension, to lower blood pressure
- Initial therapy in patients likely to need multiple drugs to achieve blood pressure goals
Mechanism of Action
- Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that blocks the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II
- Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker that inhibits transmembrane influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle
- Combined action results in additive vasodilation and blood pressure reduction
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to valsartan, amlodipine, or any component of the formulation
- Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes mellitus
- Pregnancy (fetal toxicity)
Adverse Reactions
- Peripheral edema
- Dizziness
- Fatigue
- Nasopharyngitis
- Orthostatic hypotension
- Hyperkalemia
Drug Interactions
- Dual blockade of the renin-angiotensin system (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs, or aliskiren) increases risk of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal impairment
- Potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, or salt substitutes containing potassium may lead to significant hyperkalemia
- Lithium toxicity reported with concomitant use of ARBs
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir) may increase plasma concentrations of amlodipine
- NSAIDs may diminish the antihypertensive effect and increase risk of worsening renal function
Curated Content: Needs Vetting Before Put to Clinical Use