Use Diovan to Treat Headaches

Diovan is a drug prescribed to patients with high blood pressure, or as an alternative to those who cannot take angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors. This drug has been effective because it makes blood vessels relax, lowering blood pressure and the heart's workload. It also is known to block the hormone that causes blood vessels to tighten. It is made of a drug called valsartan. Children should not be prescribed this medication.

Side effects.
Side effects with taking this medication have been rare in most patients. However, common side effects reported when taking this drug include hyperkalemia (high levels of potassium in the blood), headache, fatigue, cough, dizziness, diarrhea, abdominal or stomach pain, joint or back pain, nausea, sinus inflammation, impotence, swelling, runny nose, reduced renal function, or upper respiratory tract or viral infection.

Severe side effects.
Side effects that have been considered serious include angioedema - the swelling of soft tissues - and rhabdomyolysis - the destruction and swelling of the muscles. If any of the more common side effects have continued or worsened, the doctor should be consulted.

Drug interactions.
Any nonprescription and prescription drugs, as well as herbal and dietary supplements should be reported to the doctor in case they interact with Diovan. More specifically, lithium's side effects and actions are increased by the prescription. Also, potassium supplements and potassium-sparing diuretics like amiloride spironolactone and triamterene can alter Diovan, causing side effects like stopping the heart, causing irregular heart rhythm, listlessness, abnormal skin sensations on the arms and legs, heavy limbs, slow heart rate, and confusion. Also, potassium supplements and salt substitutes should be avoided or hyperkalemia can develop. Patients with heart failure should avoid these drugs as well because it has led to an increase in serum creatinine.

Medical interactions.
Pregnant women should not be prescribed Diovan, and those that are breastfeeding should not take the drug. Also, those who have had a heart attack, heart failure, liver or kidney problems, dehydration, or low blood sugar should tell their doctor - some conditions have interacted with the medication.

Allergies.
All allergies - food, medication or other substances - should be reported to the doctor before taking this drug.

Alcohol reactions.
Drinking alcohol should be avoided when taking this medication.

Allergic reactions.
An allergic reaction can occur from taking this medication. If symptoms such as swelling of the tongue, throat, face, lips or mouth; fainting, decreased urination; muscle pain; severe/constant dizziness; or irregular heartbeat have been present, a doctor should be seen.