valsartan / HCTZ

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 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 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.

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 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 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 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).

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).