Sacubitril-Valsartan: uses, side effects & brands

Written & medically reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS · Last reviewed 5 November 2026

Sacubitril-valsartan improves survival in heart failure. It belongs to the Blood-pressure medicine (extra) group. These lower blood pressure by additional mechanisms, often used when first-line drugs are not enough.

Ask MedDroid about sacubitril-valsartan →

Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	Blood-pressure medicine (extra)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

Long-term heart failure with a weak heart pump (reduced ejection fraction)
Reducing hospital admissions and deaths from heart failure
Some other types of heart failure, on specialist advice

Common brand names

India: Vymada, Azmarda
Worldwide: Entresto

Common side effects

Low blood pressure or dizziness
Raised potassium
Cough
Changes in kidney function

Before taking it — precautions

Must not be taken with ACE-inhibitor medicines (such as ramipril); a gap of at least 36 hours is needed when switching
Must not be used in pregnancy
Tell your doctor about past facial swelling (angioedema), kidney disease, or potassium supplements

When to see a doctor urgently

Swelling of face, lips, tongue or throat (urgent)
Fainting or severe dizziness
Muscle weakness, irregular heartbeat or very little urine (urgent)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of sacubitril-valsartan depends on age, weight, kidney/liver function and the condition, so MedDroid does not show a dose here. Always get your dose from a doctor or pharmacist and the leaflet inside the pack. General educational information only.

Frequently asked questions

How is it different from valsartan alone?

It adds sacubitril, which boosts the body's own heart-protecting hormones, and works better than older medicines in this type of heart failure.

Why the gap after an ACE inhibitor?

Taking both close together greatly raises the risk of serious swelling of the face and throat.

Does it cure heart failure?

No, but it helps people live longer and stay out of hospital. Keep taking it unless your doctor says otherwise.

Ask MedDroid about sacubitril-valsartan →

Explore more

Sources & further reading

Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.