Valsartan

Nursing pharmacology study reference (NCLEX-style monograph). Numeric values are standard teaching ranges for study and must be verified against current manufacturer labeling before clinical use. This is educational content, not prescribing guidance.

Valsartan (brand name Diovan) — Antihypertensive, heart failure agent; ARB.

Identification

• Therapeutic class: Antihypertensive, heart failure agent.
• Pharmacologic class: ARB.

Pharmacology

• Mechanism of action: Same AT1 receptor blockade as losartan.
• Onset / peak / duration: Peak blood pressure effect about 4 weeks; duration about 24 hours.
• Half-life / therapeutic level: Half-life about 6 hours; no routine level.

Clinical use

• Indications: Hypertension, heart failure, post-MI.
• Usual dose, route, frequency: 80 to 320 mg PO once daily.
• Maximum dose / adjustments: Max 320 mg/day; caution in hepatic impairment.

Safety

• Contraindications: Pregnancy, aliskiren in diabetes.
• Black box warning: Fetal toxicity.
• Interactions: Class ARB interactions; potassium agents, NSAIDs, lithium.
• Pregnancy / lactation: Contraindicated.
• High-alert: No.

Adverse effects

• Common side effects: Dizziness, fatigue, hyperkalemia.
• Serious effects to report: Angioedema, hyperkalemia, renal impairment.
• Antidote / reversal: None specific.

Nursing process

• Assessment before administration: Blood pressure, potassium, renal function, pregnancy status.
• Interventions during therapy: Monitor blood pressure and potassium.
• Monitor: Blood pressure, potassium, renal function.
• Evaluation / expected outcome: Blood pressure control; improved heart failure outcomes.

Patient teaching

• Patient teaching: Consistent daily use; report swelling.
• Notify provider if: Swelling, severe dizziness, pregnancy.
• Administration tips: With or without food.