Valsartan Hydrochlorothiazide (Diovan HCT) Tips from Pharmacists

• You can take valsartan hydrochlorothiazide at any time of the day, with or without food. If it causes an upset stomach, taking it with food might help. Avoid taking the medicine too close to bedtime because it may cause you to wake up at night to urinate. However, you may need to take the first few doses closer to bedtime as it can cause dizziness.

• This medication can cause drowsiness, dizziness, and blurred vision. Avoid driving or doing other hazardous activities until you know how it affects you.

• Valsartan hydrochlorothiazide can cause lightheadedness when going from a sitting or lying position to standing. Get out of bed slowly and tell your doctor if this side effect is severe or persistent. They may need to lower your dose.

• Keep a log of your blood pressure readings at home and bring it to all your doctor’s appointments. Your provider may adjust your dose based on your response.

• Keep all your medical and lab appointments during treatment with valsartan hydrochlorothiazide. Your doctor will order certain lab tests periodically to keep an eye on electrolytes and kidney function.

• Hydrochlorothiazide can increase the sensitivity of your skin to sunlight. Avoid unnecessary sun exposure and wear protective clothing and sunscreen when outdoors.

• Eat a healthy, salt-restricted diet and get regular exercise. These lifestyle changes can help in controlling high blood pressure.