Diovan Hct 160 Side Effects

Diovan HCT is a brand name prescription medication containing the drugs valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide. It is indicated for the treatment of high blood pressure, and available in the following strength combinations of valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide, respectively: 80mg/12.5mg, 160mg/12.5mg, 160mg/25mg, 320mg/12.5mg and 320mg/25mg, says the manufacturer, the Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation. Side effects may occur for patients taking Diovan HCT.

Dizziness

Dizziness is a common side effect of Diovan HCT, says Drugs.com. Similarly, some patients complain of the sensation that the room is spinning. Occasionally, the use of this medication leads to fainting. Patients should avoid driving or performing other critical tasks while feeling dizzy or faint. They should also tell their prescribing physician of these side effects as their blood pressure might have dropped too low.

Headache

Another common side effect is headache. These headaches usually prove mild in nature and they should respond to an over-the-counter pain reliever. Patients should report recurrent or severe headaches to the physician.

Nose and Throat Inflammation

The drug manufacturer explains that nose and throat inflammation, leading to a sore throat, occurs more often in people taking this medicine than those taking a placebo. A dry cough may also be present.

Vomiting

The “2010 Lippincott’s Nursing Drug Guide” explains that vomiting proves a common adverse reaction to Diovan HCT. Loss of appetite, abdominal pain, nausea or diarrhea may also occur. While these are usually not serious, patients should report them to the physician as she may wish to make a change in the medication regimen.

Dry Mouth

Diovan HCT can cause the feeling of dry mouth or decreased saliva. This may indicate a serious adverse effect and should be reported to the physician.

Increased Urination

Some patients complain of increased urination due to the diuretic component of the medication. While some increased voiding proves normal, it is possible for the patient to lose more fluid than he should. Increased nighttime voiding remains another problem that may indicate a need for physician evaluation, says Drugs.com.

High Potassium Level

Occasionally, a patient taking valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide develops a high potassium level, says Drugs.com. This can become life threatening over time. Patients usually have no symptoms of this condition; it is, therefore, important to have regular physician visits and to follow all recommendations for blood testing. Other electrolyte and fluid imbalances may also occur while taking this combination drug.