Valsartan Uses

Valsartan is used for lowering blood pressure in people with high blood pressure. It is also used to treat left ventricular dysfunction (heart failure) and to improve survival in people who have had a heart attack.

There may be other uses of valsartan—your doctor or pharmacist can give you further drug information.

Valsartan Mechanism of Action

Valsartan works on the renin angiotensin system. It blocks the action of angiotensin, a natural substance in the body that causes tightening of the blood vessels. Valsartan, therefore, makes blood flow easier and allows the heart to pump blood more efficiently.

Valsartan Doses

Valsartan is available as 40 mg, 80 mg, 160 mg, and 320 mg tablets. It also comes as a 4 mg/mL oral suspension. 

For lowering blood pressure, the usual starting dose of valsartan in adults is 80 mg or 160 mg once a day. The dose can be increased to a maximum of 320 mg once daily. 

For left ventricular failure (heart failure), the starting dose of valsartan in adults is typically 40 mg twice a day, with a target maintenance dose of 160 mg twice a day.

After heart attacks, the starting dose of valsartan in adults is 20 mg twice a day, with a target maintenance dose of 160 mg twice a day.

The dose of valsartan in children depends on the child’s body weight and must be determined by a doctor.