Brand name: Co-Diovan

Generic name: Valsartan hydrochlorothiazide

Indications: hypertension
Drug classification: Antihypertensive agent, Angiotensin II antagonist
Mechanism of action: hydrochlorothiazide inhibits sodium reabsorption in the distal
tubules causing increased secretion of sodium and water as well as potassium
and hydrogen ions. Valsartan acts as direct antagonist of angiotensin II receptors
and causes vasoconstriction, aldosterone release, arginine vasopressin release,
water intake, and hyperthopic responses.
Dosage: 1 tab daily; 25-100mg/d
Special precaution: risk of hypotension in Na and/or vol-depleted patients, renal artery
stenosis. Hepatic and renal disease, disturbance of serum electrolyte balance.
May impair ability to drive or operate machinery. Lactation.
Pregnancy risk category: C
Adverse reaction: headache, dizziness, fatigue. Hydrochlorothiazide: Hypokalemia,
hyperuricemia, electrolyte disturbances, postural hypotension, rise in blood
lipids. Rarely, jaundice, cardiac arrhythmias, blood dyscrasias. Very rarely,
 vasculitis, pancreatitis, pneumonitis, pulmonary edema, hypersensitivity
reactions eg angioedema, impaired renal function.
Contraindication: pregnancy and severe hepatic impairment, biliary cirrhosis and
cholestasis, anuria, severe renal impairment, refractory hypokalemia,
hyponatremia and hypercalcemia. Symptomatic hyperuricemia.
Form: tablet
Nursing responsibility:
 Monitor BP periodically in patients on concurrent antihypertensive
therapy
 Monitor intake and output of patient