valsartan

An angiotensin II receptor blockerangiotensin II receptor blockeran-jee-oh-TEN-sin too ree-SEP-ter BLOK-erA drug that blocks the hormone angiotensin II so blood vessels relax and blood pressure falls.Full entry Close that relaxes blood vessels by blocking the hormone angiotensin II. It is used for high blood pressure, heart failure and after a heart attack; combined with sacubitril it is sold as Entresto. It works much like an ACE inhibitorACE inhibitorAYS in-HIB-ih-terA blood pressure drug that blocks the enzyme that makes angiotensin II, so blood vessels relax and less fluid is held in the body.Full entry Close but rarely causes the dry cough. It can raise potassium, affect kidney function and cause dizziness, and its boxed warning is for harm to an unborn baby. Its brand name Diovan can be confused with Zyban (bupropionbupropionbyoo-PROH-pee-onAn antidepressant that is also used to help people stop smoking.Full entry Close).

Check blood pressure before giving it, and potassium and kidney function as ordered. Teach the client to rise slowly, avoid potassium supplements and salt substitutes unless told otherwise, report swelling of the face or tongue at once, and stop it and call the provider if they become pregnant.