Diovan Oral Solution (valsartan) is used to treat hypertension, congestive heart failure, and to reduce mortality after a heart attack. It has also shown some benefit in slowing the progression of of Alzheimer's disease, though in this are use is still largely experimental.

As this product's name suggests, it as oral solution version of the medication. Regular Diovan comes in tablets, while Diovan Oral Solution comes as a fluid for drinking. The oral solution formula is ideal for patients unable to swallow tablets or for those very reluctant to swallow tablets, as is often the case with children.

Diovan Oral Solution can be used in patients age 6 and up, though a doctor should be consulted for dosage amount. It should not be taken while pregnant, as it can cause harm or even death of the baby. Effects on breastfed babies are unclear.

Treatment Overview

Diovan Oral Solution can be taken with or without food as desired. Ideally dosage will be individualized; a doctor can take into account patient age, weight, response to treatment, and other factors. Other medications being taken and other medical conditions can also influence dosage.

Frequency of dosage also varies, usually between once or twice per day, but rarely may be three times per day. To some extent this varies by the condition being treated, but also by location; in some places doctors may recommend once-per-day treatment, while in others the same dose for the same condition is administered twice per day. If the administration schedule advised by a doctor doesn't seem to be working well, it may be worth discussing changing it with the doctor.

General treatment guidelines for Diovan Oral Solution are as follows.

Treating hypertension:

• Treatment usually starts with 40 mg taken twice per day or 80 mg taken once per day.
• Dosage may be increased in increments of 40 to 80 mg every one to two weeks if needed, up to a maximum of 320 mg per day.
• In most cases adding an additional hypertension treatment, such as a diuretic, provides more benefit than increasing Diovan Oral Solution dosage past 80 or 160 mg per day.

Treating congestive heart failure:

• Treatment usually starts with 80 mg per day, which may be divided into two 40 mg doses taken morning and evening.
• For heart failure the ideal dose is 320 mg per day; increases in 40 to 80 mg increments can be applied every one or two weeks until 320 mg is reached.
• Not all patients will be able to tolerate 320 mg doses without side effects; in these cases the highest tolerated dose is desirable.
• Do not exceed 320 mg per day.

Following a heart attack:

• Treatment usually starts with 40 mg per day, divided into two 20 mg doses.
• Dosage may be increased weekly up to 320 mg per day, divided into two 160 mg doses.

In all cases substantial results should be measurable after two weeks of treatment. Patients may not feel particularly different, but laboratory results should demonstrate Diovan Oral Solution's effectiveness. Maximum benefit should be seen after four weeks of taking Diovan Oral Solution.

As a general rule, any medication that influences blood pressure should not be stopped abruptly; doing so can cause potentially serious complications. Speak with a doctor about a discontinuation plan before stopping treatment with Diovan Oral Solution.

Adverse Reactions

Patients should understand that no matter what Diovan Oral Solution is prescribed for it will lower blood pressure. At the start of treatment side effects associated with lowered blood pressure are relatively common, including:

• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Mild confusion
• Difficulty concentrating
• Fatigue
• Nausea

The above symptoms are not cause for concern unless severe or persistent beyond the first couple weeks of treatment. In most cases they're mild and stop occurring as the body adjusts to its new blood pressure. The above symptoms can occur when blood pressure is lowered at all, even if it is still within normal ranges.

Unfortunately some individuals have more serious reactions. Warning signs that warrant immediate medical attention include:

• Severe confusion
• Weak heartbeat
• Rapid heartbeat
• Cold, clammy, and/or pale skin
• Fainting
• Vision changes

Certain other medications or medical conditions put patients at greater risk of experiencing serious side effects from Diovan Oral Solution. Stay alert for warning signs if:

• Any other cardiovascular conditions are present
• There is any history of liver or kidney impairment
• Any other medications are being taken that influence blood pressure or heart rate

Discussing the above with a doctor prior to starting treatment is advisable. Double-checking with a doctor or pharmacist before taking any other medication---including over-the-counter varieties---is also a good idea.