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Valsartan / HCTZ Coupon - Valsartan / HCTZ 320mg/25mg tablet

valsartan / HCTZ

Generic Diovan HCT
Used for Hypertension
Used for Hypertension

Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) is a combination of two blood pressure medications. It's typically used when one medication alone doesn't lower your blood pressure enough. Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) is taken by mouth, usually once daily. Keep in mind that it can take 1 to 2 weeks before you start to notice the effects of this medication on you blood pressure. The most common side effect of Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) is dizziness, especially when you first start taking this medication or when your provider adjusts your dose.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Dalga Surofchy, PharmD, APh
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on March 1, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide)?

What is Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) used for?

  • High blood pressure

How Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) works

Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) is a combination of two medications that help lower blood pressure.

  • Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It blocks a hormone called angiotensin II that raises blood pressure by tightening your blood vessels and causing your body to hold on to more fluid. Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) helps relax your blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure.

  • Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic (water pill). It works in your kidneys to remove extra water and certain electrolytes (like sodium and potassium), which helps lower your blood pressure. As a result, it makes you urinate more.

Are you looking for information on valsartan (Diovan) or hydrochlorothiazide instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsDiovan HCT
Drug ClassARB / Diuretic (water pill)
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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Avg retail price
$87.230
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$87.23
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basics-icon

What are the side effects of Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Dizziness (6%)
  • Common cold (2%)
  • Feeling lightheaded when standing up from a seated or lying down position (1%)

Other Side Effects

  • Muscle cramps
  • Stomach upset
  • Dry mouth
  • Nausea
  • Headache
  • Rash

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Severe allergic reaction: rash, swelling of the face, lips, throat, difficulty breathing
  • Severe low blood pressure: feeling faint, dizziness
  • Kidney problems: urinating less often than usual, swelling, unexplained weight gain
  • Changes in your electrolytes (potassium, sodium, magnesium): nausea, chest pain, irregular heartbeat, thirst, muscle cramps

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

Less common

Cold or flu-like symptoms

difficulty with swallowing

sore throat

tender or swollen lymph nodes in the neck

unusual tiredness or weakness

Rare

Bloating or stomach pain

blurred vision

chills

eye pain

fainting

fever

flushing

itching, pain, redness, or swelling of the eye or eyelid

joint stiffness or swelling, especially if sudden

nausea

skin rash or hives

trouble breathing

vomiting

watering of the eyes

yellow eyes or skin

Incidence not known

Confusion

dark urine

decreased urine output

dizziness

drowsiness

dry mouth

fast or irregular heartbeat

large, hive-like swelling on the face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

light-colored stools

lightheadedness

muscle cramps, spasms, pain, or stiffness

nervousness

numbness or tingling in the hands, feet, or lips

persistent non-healing sore

pink growth

reddish patch or irritated area

seizures

shiny bump

thirst

weakness or heaviness of the legs

white, yellow or waxy scar-like area

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

Less common

Cough

diarrhea (mild)

headache

Rare

Anxiety

increased sensitivity to sunlight

increased sweating

redness of the face or neck

reduced sexual performance or drive

Incidence not known

Hair loss or thinning of the hair

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide)

thumbs-up

Pros

Contains two first-choice medications to lower blood pressure

Conveniently combines two medications into one tablet

Only taken once a day

Available as a lower-cost generic

thumbs-down

Cons

Comes in fixed dosage strengths, so it might be harder for your provider to adjust the doses of the individual medications

Might require regular blood tests to see how it's affecting your electrolytes and kidneys

Not safe to use if you're pregnant or breastfeeding

Makes you urinate more

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide)

pharmacist

  • You can take Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) with or without food.

    • Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can make you urinate more often. Try taking the medication in the morning or afternoon so you're not waking up in the middle of the night to use the restroom.

      • Like many blood pressure medications, Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can cause dizziness the first few days because your body isn't used to having lower blood pressure. Be careful when getting up from a lying down or seated position so you don't get too dizzy or fall.

        • Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can raise your potassium levels. Don't use potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium without asking your provider.

          • Make sure to get any lab work ordered by your provider done on time. Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can cause changes to your blood sugar and cholesterol levels.

            • If you're taking cholestyramine (Prevalite), take Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) at least 4 hours before or 4-6 hours after it. This is because the two medications interact with each other, causing Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) to not get absorbed as well into your body.

              • If you become pregnant or would like to become pregnant, tell your provider right away as Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can harm your unborn baby.

                faqs

                Frequently asked questions about Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide)

                How soon will Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) start to work?
                Typically, you should expect to see improvements in your blood pressure in about 1 to 2 weeks after starting Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide). But it could take up to a month before you to see the full benefits of this medication. If you're just starting Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide), your provider might need to adjust your dose over time before finding a dose that works best for you.
                Can I drink alcohol with Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide)?
                It's best to avoid or limit alcohol when you're taking Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide). If you drink alcohol, especially if you drink a larger amount within a shorter period of time, you can experience a temporary drop in your blood pressure. This can lead to dizziness and falls, especially when you sit up or stand up. If you drink alcohol regularly, let your provider know. They can talk with you about limiting alcohol to help you avoid dangerous side effects with Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide).
                Can Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) cause weight loss?
                Weight loss isn't a side effect reported by people who took Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) during clinical trials. The hydrochlorothiazide (water pill) that's in this combination medication causes you to urinate more to get rid of extra fluid in your body. But this most likely won't cause any noticeable effects on weight.
                When is the best time of day to take Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide)?
                Because Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) contains a diuretic (water pill), it's usually better to take it during the day to avoid waking up in the middle of the night to use the bathroom. Choose a time to take your medication and stay consistent. Taking Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) at the same time every day will help keep the levels of medication the same in your body.
                Can I take Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) with ibuprofen (Advil)?
                You're recommended to avoid taking non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), like ibuprofen (Advil), together with Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) because the combination can cause harm to your kidneys. Ask your provider about other options to help with pain and fever, such as acetaminophen (Tylenol).
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                What are the risks and warnings for Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide)?

                Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

                risk-warning

                Not for use during pregnancy

                Pregnant females shouldn't take Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) because it can cause severe, and sometimes life-threatening, harm to unborn babies. Some problems include low blood pressure, kidney problems, low platelets, jaundice, and death. Speak to your provider about safer options to lower your blood pressure if you're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant. If you find out that you're pregnant while taking Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide), stop the medication and call your provider right away.

                risk-warning

                Low blood pressure

                • Risk factors: Taking other medications that lower blood pressure | Not enough fluids in the body

                  Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can lower your blood pressure, which can make you feel lightheaded or dizzy. Be careful when getting up from either a seated or lying down position to prevent falls. This is more likely to happen if you're also taking other medications that lower your blood pressure. If you feel dizzy, talk to your provider. They can make sure your dose is appropriate or prescribe a different blood pressure medication.

                  risk-warning

                  Worsening kidney problems

                  • Risk factors: Certain kidney problems | Heart failure | Not enough fluid in the body

                    In some people, Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can affect the kidneys and cause them to not work as well. Your risk is higher if you have very severe heart failure, serious kidney problems, or if you're taking medications that can worsen kidney function. Your provider might order lab work to make sure your kidneys are working properly. If you're urinating less often than usual or if you notice swelling, call your provider. These could be signs that your kidneys aren't working as well as they should be.

                    risk-warning

                    Severe allergic reaction

                    In some rare cases, Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can cause a severe or life-threatening allergic reaction. If you experience swelling in your lips, tongue, face, or throat or have trouble breathing, get medical help right away.

                    risk-warning

                    Changes in electrolytes

                    • Risk factors: Heart failure | Kidney problems | Taking other medications that affect electrolytes

                      Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can change the levels of your electrolytes, including sodium, potassium, and magnesium. Your provider might have you get blood work done so they can check these electrolytes before you start the medication, and regularly while you're taking it. If you feel any nausea, irregular heartbeats, cramps, or excessive thirst while taking this medication, call your provider. These can be signs that your electrolytes are too high or too low.

                      risk-warning

                      Vision problems

                      • Risk factors: History of sulfa or penicillin allergy

                        Vision changes and/or eye pain can occur within hours to weeks of starting Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide). If you experience any vision changes or eye pain, stop the medication right away and contact your provider. In some cases, this can lead to permanent blindness if not treated away.

                        risk-warning

                        Lupus

                        • Risk factors: History of lupus

                          Hydrochlorothiazide, an ingredient in Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide), might cause lupus to flare up. If you have a history of lupus, speak with your provider about the risks and benefits of taking Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide).

                          risk-warning

                          Interactions with other medications

                          Some medications interact with Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide), which could change the way it works. On the other hand, Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) can change the way certain medications work in your body. Tell your provider all of the prescription and over-the-counter medications you're taking, especially if you're taking medications such as, lithium (Lithobid), non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), or carbamazepine (Tegretol).

                          dosage

                          Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) dosage forms

                          The average cost for 30 tablets of 320mg/25mg of Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) is $1467.94 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is -134.05% off the average retail price of $627.18.
                          tablet
                          Tablet
                          DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                          80mg/12.5mg30 tablets$326.71$10.89
                          160mg/12.5mg30 tablets$353.59$11.79
                          320mg/12.5mg90 tablets$1327.32$14.75
                          160mg/25mg90 tablets$1166.53$12.96
                          320mg/25mg90 tablets$1467.94$16.31

                          Typical dosing for Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide)

                          The usual starting dose is 160 mg/12.5 mg (valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide) by mouth once daily. If needed, your provider might raise your dose over time to a maximum dose of 320 mg/25 mg (valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide) once daily.

                          interactions

                          Interactions between Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) and other drugs

                          Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is not recommended. Your doctor may decide not to treat you with this medication or change some of the other medicines you take.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                          Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

                          drug-cost

                          How much does Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) cost?

                          To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
                          Diovan HCT (brand)
                          GoodRx lowest price

                          $326.71

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                          Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) (generic)
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                          $87.23

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                          contraindications-icon

                          Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) contraindications

                          Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) will not be safe for you to take.
                          alternatives

                          What are alternatives to Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide)?

                          There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
                          Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide)
                          Used for:

                          • High blood pressure

                          $87.23 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Benicar HCT (olmesartan / hydrochlorothiazide)
                          Used for:

                          • High blood pressure

                          $17.51 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          Micardis HCT (telmisartan / HCTZ)
                          Used for:
                          $24.00 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                          images

                          Diovan HCT (valsartan / hydrochlorothiazide) images

                          Beige Oval V25 And M - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet
                          This medicine is Beige, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "V25" And "M".Beige Oval V25 And M - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet
                          Yellow Oval Cti And Nvr - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet
                          This medicine is Yellow, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "Cti" And "Nvr".Yellow Oval Cti And Nvr - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet
                          Yellow Oval L 20 - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet
                          This medicine is Yellow, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "L 20".Yellow Oval L 20 - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet
                          Yellow Oval 849 And An - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet
                          This medicine is Yellow, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "An" And "849".Yellow Oval 849 And An - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet
                          Purple Oblong Hh And 349 - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet
                          This medicine is Purple, Oblong Tablet Imprinted With "349" And "Hh".Purple Oblong Hh And 349 - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet
                          Yellow Oval L239 - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet
                          This medicine is Yellow, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "L239".Yellow Oval L239 - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet
                          Yellow Oval I And 65 - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet
                          This medicine is Yellow, Oval Tablet Imprinted With "65" And "I".Yellow Oval I And 65 - Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide 320mg-25mg Tablet

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                          References

                          Best studies we found

                          Alembic Pharmaceuticals Limited. (2023). VALSARTAN AND HYDROCHLOROTHIAZIDE tablet, film coated [package insert]. DailyMed.

                          Whelton, P. K., et al. (2017). 2017 ACC/AHA/AAPA/ABC/ACPM/AGS/APhA/ASH/ASPC/NMA/ PCNA guideline for the prevention, detection, evaluation, and management of high blood pressure in adults: A report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines. Hypertension.

                          You and Your Hormones. (2019). Angiotensin.

                          GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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