Valsartan 160 Mg Tablet: Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Swelling of the face, lips, throat, or tongue, or difficulty breathing.
- Severe dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness.
- Decreased urine output or swelling in the legs or feet.
- Yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe stomach pain.
- Irregular heartbeat or muscle weakness (may indicate high potassium).
- Chest pain or worsening shortness of breath.
- Severe allergic reaction with rash, itching, or hives.
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is diovan 160 tablet used for?
This medicine contains valsartan 160 mg, an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and to improve survival after a heart attack. It works by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. It is taken orally once or twice daily as prescribed.
- Generic Name: Valsartan
- Manufacturer: Novartis India Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 diovan 160 tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा वैलसार्टन 160 मिलीग्राम युक्त एक टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग मुख्य रूप से उच्च रक्तचाप (हाई ब्लड प्रेशर) के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह दवा रक्त वाहिकाओं को आराम देकर चौड़ा करती है, जिससे रक्तचाप कम होता है और हृदय पर दबाव कम पड़ता है। इसका उपयोग दिल की विफलता (हार्ट फेल्योर) में भी किया जाता है और दिल के दौरे के बाद जीवन रक्षा में मदद करता है। मधुमेह रोगियों में यह गुर्दे की रक्षा के लिए भी दी जाती है। यह दवा गर्भावस्था में नहीं लेनी चाहिए क्योंकि यह शिशु के लिए हानिकारक हो सकती है। इस दवा को डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें, अपने आप बंद न करें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में चक्कर आना, सिरदर्द, थकान, पेट में असहजता और कम रक्तचाप शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और शरीर के अभ्यस्त होने पर ठीक हो जाते हैं। कुछ लोगों में गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव भी हो सकते हैं, जैसे चेहरे, होंठ, गले या जीभ में सूजन, जो सांस लेने में कठिनाई पैदा कर सकती है। अगर ऐसा हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें। गुर्दे की समस्या, पोटैशियम का बढ़ना, और लीवर की समस्या भी दुर्लभ रूप से हो सकती है। कोई भी असामान्य लक्षण दिखने पर डॉक्टर को बताएं।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को लेने से पहले अपने डॉक्टर को बताएं कि आप गर्भवती हैं, गर्भवती होने की योजना बना रही हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं। गर्भावस्था में यह दवा नुकसानदायक है, इसलिए गर्भधारण का पता चलते ही इसे बंद कर दें। अपनी सभी दवाओं के बारे में डॉक्टर को बताएं, खासकर दर्द निवारक दवाएं (जैसे इबुप्रोफेन), पोटैशियम सप्लीमेंट, और लिथियम। शराब का सेवन न करें क्योंकि इससे चक्कर और कम रक्तचाप बढ़ सकता है। गाड़ी चलाते समय सावधानी बरतें जब तक आपको पता न चल जाए कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है। दवा को कमरे के तापमान पर, नमी और गर्मी से दूर, बच्चों की पहुंच से बाहर रखें। डॉक्टर की सलाह के बिना दवा बंद न करें।
💊 diovan 160 tablet Uses & Benefits
- [{"condition":"Hypertension (high blood pressure)","description":"This medicine is used to lower high blood pressure in adults and in children aged six years and older.
- Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Heart failure","description":"This medicine is used to treat heart failure in adults when other medicines called ACE inhibitors are not suitable.
- It helps reduce hospitalizations and improve symptoms.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Post-myocardial infarction (after a heart attack)","description":"This medicine is used in adults who have had a recent heart attack to help protect the heart and improve survival, especially when they cannot take ACE inhibitors.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Diabetic nephropathy (kidney damage due to diabetes)","description":"This medicine is sometimes used in people with diabetes and high blood pressure to protect the kidneys from further damage.","evidence":"Well-established"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Marfan syndrome","description":"Sometimes prescribed off-label to slow the enlargement of the aorta in people with Marfan syndrome, though evidence is mixed.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Prevention of atrial fibrillation","description":"May be used off-label to reduce the risk of new-onset atrial fibrillation in some patients with high blood pressure or heart failure.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Hypertension
Also treats: Heart failure, Post-myocardial infarction, Diabetic nephropathy
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Valsartan |
| Brand Name | Diovan |
| Manufacturer | Novartis India Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | CARDIAC |
| Action Class | Angiotensin receptor blockers(ARB) |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F and 86°F). Keep the tablets in their original container, tightly closed, and protect them from moisture and heat. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep out of the reach of children and pets. |
| Shelf Life | The shelf life is typically 24 months from the date of manufacture, but refer to the expiry date printed on the pack. Do not use after the expiry date. |
| WHO Guideline | The World Health Organization includes angiotensin receptor blockers like valsartan among the recommended first-line medicines for treating high blood pressure in adults. However, specific recommendations may vary based on individual patient factors. |
| ICMR Guideline | The Indian Council of Medical Research guidelines for the management of hypertension recognize angiotensin receptor blockers as effective first-line agents for blood pressure control, especially in patients who cannot tolerate ACE inhibitors due to cough. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works by selectively blocking the angiotensin II type 1 (AT1) receptor. Angiotensin II is a powerful hormone that constricts blood vessels and stimulates the release of aldosterone, a hormone that causes the body to retain sodium and water. By blocking the AT1 receptor, this medicine prevents angiotensin II from exerting its effects. As a result, blood vessels relax and widen, which lowers blood pressure. The heart does not have to work as hard to pump blood, which is helpful in heart failure and after a heart attack. The kidneys also benefit because the pressure inside the kidney filters is reduced, which can slow the progression of kidney damage in people with diabetes. Unlike ACE inhibitors, this medicine does not block the breakdown of bradykinin, so it is less likely to cause a dry cough. This medicine does not affect the angiotensin II type 2 (AT2) receptor, which is believed to have beneficial effects such as vasodilation and tissue repair.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take diovan 160 tablet
Strength: This medicine is available as an immediate-release tablet containing 160 mg of valsartan. It is taken by mouth.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual starting dose of this medicine for high blood pressure is 80 mg to 160 mg once daily. Your doctor may increase the dose to a maximum of 320 mg once daily if needed. For heart failure, the usual starting dose is 40 mg twice daily, which may be increased to 160 mg twice daily. After a heart attack, treatment is often started as early as 12 hours after the attack, with an initial dose of 20 mg twice daily, increased over weeks to a target of 160 mg twice daily. For children aged 6 to 16 years, the dose is based on weight and is determined by the doctor. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and response to treatment. Do not change your dose without consulting your doctor. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information for all indications. For high blood pressure in children aged 6 to 16 years, the dose is based on weight and must be determined by a pediatrician. The usual starting dose is 1.3 mg per kg of body weight once daily, up to a maximum of 40 mg, with a maximum daily dose of 160 mg. This medicine is not recommended for children under 6 years of age. Consult a pediatrician for precise dosing. |
| Elderly Dosage | No dose adjustment is required for elderly patients based on age alone. However, elderly patients may be more sensitive to the blood pressure-lowering effects and may be at higher risk of dizziness and kidney problems. Start with a lower dose and monitor blood pressure and kidney function closely. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Renal Impairment | No initial dose adjustment is needed for patients with mild to moderate kidney impairment. For patients with severe kidney impairment or those on dialysis, use with caution and monitor kidney function and potassium levels. The dose may need to be reduced. This medicine is not removed by dialysis. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on kidney function. |
| Hepatic Impairment | For patients with mild to moderate liver impairment, the maximum recommended dose is 80 mg once daily. This medicine is contraindicated in patients with severe liver impairment, biliary cirrhosis, or cholestasis. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on liver function. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose is 320 mg for high blood pressure. For heart failure and post-heart attack, the maximum dose is 160 mg twice daily (320 mg per day). Do not exceed the dose prescribed by your doctor. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of diovan 160 tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Aliskiren | Major | |
| Potassium supplements | Major | |
| NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) | Major | |
| Lithium | Major | |
| Rifampicin | Moderate | |
| Fluconazole | Moderate | |
| Warfarin | Moderate | |
| ACE inhibitors | Moderate | |
| Beta-blockers | Moderate | |
| Antacids (aluminum/magnesium) | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Aliskiren
- Potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene)
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen, naproxen, diclofenac
- Lithium
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Rifampicin
- Fluconazole
- Warfarin
- Other blood pressure-lowering medicines (e.g., ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers)
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect of this medicine and increase the risk of dizziness, lightheadedness, and fainting. It is advisable to avoid alcohol or limit its intake while taking this medicine. If you choose to drink alcohol, do so in moderation and monitor how you feel. Consult your doctor for personalized advice.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Pregnancy","Hypersensitivity to valsartan or any component of the formulation","Severe liver impairment, biliary cirrhosis, or cholestasis","Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes","Anuria (inability to pass urine)"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["Fetal toxicity: This medicine can cause harm or death to the unborn baby. Stop immediately if pregnancy is detected.","Hypotension: May cause low blood pressure, especially in patients who are volume-depleted or taking diuretics. Correct volume depletion before starting.","Kidney impairment: May worsen kidney function. Monitor kidney function and potassium levels.","Hyperkalemia: May increase potassium levels. Avoid potassium supplements and potassium-sparing diuretics unless necessary.","Angioedema: Rare but serious. Stop the medicine and seek emergency help if swelling of face, lips, throat, or tongue occurs.","Hepatic impairment: Use with caution in mild to moderate liver disease. Contraindicated in severe liver disease.","Heart failure: May cause worsening of heart failure symptoms. Monitor closely.","Aortic or mitral stenosis: Use with caution in patients with narrowing of heart valves.","Volume depletion: May cause symptomatic low blood pressure. Correct before starting.","Dual blockade of the renin-angiotensin system: Combining with ACE inhibitors or aliskiren increases risk of kidney problems, low blood pressure, and hyperkalemia. Not recommended."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether this medicine passes into human breast milk. Because of the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or discontinue the medicine, taking into account the importance of the medicine to the mother. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose with this medicine can cause severe low blood pressure, dizziness, and fainting. If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor or go to the nearest emergency department immediately. Treatment is supportive and may include intravenous fluids to raise blood pressure. This medicine is not removed by dialysis to a significant extent, so dialysis is not useful for overdose. Do not try to vomit unless instructed by a healthcare professional.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose. If you are unsure, contact your doctor or pharmacist for advice.
Additional Safety Advice
Before you start taking this medicine, tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. This medicine is not safe during pregnancy and must be stopped as soon as pregnancy is detected. If you are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor because this medicine may pass into breast milk and could affect your baby. Tell your doctor about all your medical conditions, especially kidney disease, liver disease, heart failure, diabetes, or a history of angioedema. Also inform your doctor if you are on a low-salt or potassium-restricted diet, or if you take potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium. This medicine can interact with many other medicines, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs such as ibuprofen and naproxen, which may reduce its blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of kidney problems. Do not start any new medicine, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal products, without checking with your doctor or pharmacist. Avoid drinking alcohol while taking this medicine because it can lower your blood pressure further and increase dizziness. Be careful when driving or operating machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it can cause dizziness or tiredness. Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without talking to your doctor, even if you feel well, because high blood pressure often has no symptoms. Keep all your appointments so your doctor can monitor your blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from moisture and heat, and keep it out of the reach of children. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one. If you take too much of this medicine, contact your doctor or go to the nearest hospital immediately, even if you feel fine, because low blood pressure can develop. Always carry a list of your medicines with you, including this one, in case of an emergency.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the blood pressure-lowering effects of this medicine and are at higher risk of dizziness, falls, and kidney problems. Start with a lower dose and monitor blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels closely. Ensure adequate hydration and rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to prevent falls.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
This medicine is contraindicated during pregnancy and can cause serious harm to the unborn baby. If you are planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor before conception. They may switch you to a safer alternative. If you become pregnant while taking this medicine, stop it immediately and contact your doctor for urgent advice.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine before any surgery. It may need to be temporarily stopped before surgery to prevent low blood pressure during the procedure. Do not stop it on your own; follow your doctor's instructions. After surgery, your doctor will advise when to restart.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It can cause low blood pressure or dizziness during dental work. Your dentist may take precautions, such as monitoring your blood pressure. Do not stop the medicine without consulting your doctor.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Regular exercise is beneficial for blood pressure control, but avoid sudden strenuous activity if you are not used to it. This medicine can cause dizziness or low blood pressure during exercise, especially in hot weather. Stay well hydrated and rise slowly after exercise. If you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint during exercise, stop and rest. Consult your doctor before starting a new exercise program.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause dizziness or tiredness, especially when you first start taking it or when the dose is increased. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Most people can continue their normal work and daily activities once they adjust to the medicine. If your job involves standing for long periods or working at heights, inform your doctor so they can monitor your blood pressure closely. Take breaks and stay hydrated.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience serious side effects such as angioedema, severe low blood pressure, or kidney problems, your doctor may advise you to stop. If you become pregnant, stop immediately and contact your doctor. In some cases, your doctor may switch you to a different medicine. Always follow your doctor's guidance.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is generally safe and well tolerated. It helps control blood pressure and protects the heart and kidneys over time. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels is important. In some people, long-term use may lead to mild increases in potassium or creatinine, which are usually manageable with dose adjustment. Rarely, it can cause anemia or liver problems. Do not stop the medicine without medical advice, as uncontrolled high blood pressure can lead to serious complications like stroke, heart attack, and kidney failure.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Diet, exercise, weight loss, and salt restriction can help lower blood pressure and may reduce the need for medicine.
Evidence: Well-establishedACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, diuretics, and beta-blockers are alternatives if this medicine is not suitable.
Evidence: Well-establishedA procedure for resistant hypertension, but not widely used.
Evidence: Limited💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no known interactions between this medicine and vaccines. However, if you are scheduled for any vaccination, inform your healthcare provider that you are taking this medicine. It is safe to receive most vaccines while on this medicine, but your doctor can provide personalized advice.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight and moisture
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✅ DO
Keep out of reach of children and pets
❌ DON'T
Do not use after expiry date
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling, carry your medicine in its original packaging with the prescription label clearly visible. Bring enough supply for your entire trip, plus extra in case of delays. Carry a copy of your prescription or a letter from your doctor, especially if you are traveling internationally. Store the medicine at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and moisture. If crossing time zones, continue taking your medicine at the same intervals as prescribed; you may need to adjust the timing gradually. Keep your medicine in your carry-on luggage, not in checked baggage, to avoid loss or temperature extremes. Check local customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts lowering blood pressure within 2 hours, but the full effect may take 2 to 4 weeks of regular use. Continue taking it as prescribed.
A: No. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. Stopping suddenly can cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure. Always consult your doctor before stopping.
A: This medicine is an ARB and is much less likely to cause a dry cough compared to ACE inhibitors. It is often prescribed as an alternative for that reason.
A: Ibuprofen and other NSAIDs can reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect of this medicine and increase the risk of kidney problems. Consult your doctor before taking them together.
A: No. This medicine can harm the unborn baby and is contraindicated during pregnancy. If you become pregnant, stop the medicine immediately and contact your doctor.
A: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double dose.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for diovan 160 tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
starval 160mg capsuleSun Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd ₹121.88 88.8% CHEAPER
-
diovaal 160mg tabletJohnlee Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd ₹125.00 88.5% CHEAPER
-
valembic 160mg tabletAlembic Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹132.66 87.8% CHEAPER
-
valent 160 tabletLupin Ltd ₹318.50 70.8% CHEAPER
-
valzaar 160 tabletTorrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd ₹406.40 62.7% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can be stopped once blood pressure is normal.
Fact: High blood pressure usually has no symptoms, and stopping the medicine can cause it to rise again. Continue taking it as prescribed unless your doctor advises otherwise. - Myth: This medicine causes a dry cough like ACE inhibitors.
Fact: This medicine is an ARB and is much less likely to cause a dry cough compared to ACE inhibitors. It is often prescribed as an alternative for that reason. - Myth: This medicine is safe during pregnancy.
Fact: This medicine is not safe during pregnancy and can harm the unborn baby. It must be stopped immediately if pregnancy is detected. - Myth: You can take this medicine with any other medicine without checking.
Fact: This medicine can interact with several drugs, including NSAIDs, potassium supplements, and lithium. Always check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting any new medicine.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Valsartan 160 mg tablet
Brand Alternatives
- Diovan 160 tablet
- Valzaar 160 tablet
- Tareg 160 tablet