Key takeaways
Entresto (sacubitril/valsartan) and Diovan (valsartan) are both used to treat heart failure and high blood pressure, but they belong to different medication classes. Entresto is an angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI), while Diovan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). Entresto is specifically approved for heart failure in adults and children over 1 year old, whereas Diovan is also used for high blood pressure and to lower the risk of heart-related problems after a heart attack. Entresto is taken twice a day and is only available as a branded medication, while Diovan can be taken once or twice a day and is available as a lower-cost generic. Common side effects of Entresto include low blood pressure, high potassium levels, and dizziness, while Diovan may cause dizziness and fatigue. Both medications can raise potassium levels, so you should be cautious about taking them with other medications that do the same. Both medications should not be taken with other ARBs or ACE inhibitors.
