Valsartan: uses, side effects & brands

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

Valsartan is an ARB used for blood pressure and heart failure. It belongs to the ARB (blood pressure) group. ARBs relax blood vessels to lower blood pressure and protect the kidneys, without the cough that ACE inhibitors can cause.

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Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor

Measure	Range
Drug class	ARB (blood pressure)
Type	Prescription
Dose	Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist

What it is used for

High blood pressure
Heart failure
After a heart attack
As part of a combination medicine for heart failure (with sacubitril)

Common brand names

India: Valzaar, Diovan, Starval
Worldwide: Diovan

Common side effects

Dizziness, especially at first
Headache or tiredness
Low blood pressure in heart failure patients
Rarely, raised blood potassium

Before taking it — precautions

Not to be used in pregnancy — tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to be
Kidney function and blood potassium are checked with blood tests
Tell your doctor about potassium supplements, salt substitutes, pain killers (NSAIDs) or water tablets

When to see a doctor urgently

Swelling of the face, lips or throat (rare — urgent)
Fainting or very low blood pressure
Muscle weakness or palpitations (high potassium)

Not a prescription — no dose shown. The right dose of 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

Does valsartan cause a cough?

A dry cough is uncommon with valsartan, which is why it is often used when an ACE inhibitor cough is a problem.

Can valsartan be used in heart failure?

Yes. It is used in heart failure on its own or combined with sacubitril, which helps the heart work better.

Can I take valsartan with an ACE inhibitor?

Usually not — combining them raises the risk of kidney problems and high potassium. Your doctor will advise.

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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.