AV Tablet

Introduction

Amlodipine besilate + valsartan is a combination medication prescribed for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). It is a combination of two active substances, amlodipine and valsartan. Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine derivative which works as a calcium channel blocker, while valsartan belongs to the angiotensin II receptor blocker family.

Uses

Amlodipine besilate + valsartan is mainly used to treat hypertension and can reduces both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. It reduces the risk of stroke and heart attack in certain patients. It can also be used for other conditions as determined by the doctor.

Brand Name	AV
Type	Tablet
Weight	5 mg+160 mg
Generic	Amlodipine Besilate + Valsartan
Manufacturer	Drug International Ltd.
Available in	English বাংলা

Mechanism of Action

Amlodipine belongs to dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers family. It acts by suppressing the influx of calcium ions across the cell membrane of the smooth muscles and results in the relaxation of these muscles and the reduction of the heart rate. Valsartan is an angiotensin II blocker. It acts by preventing the action of a hormone called angiotensin II which causes narrowing of blood vessels and also increases the levels of sodium and water in the body, thereby increasing the blood pressure.

How long does it take to work?

It depends on the patient's condition and the individual's response to the medication. Generally, the effects of this medication can be seen within a few days to weeks. It is important that the patient should take the medicine regularly and follow the instructions of the doctor for better results.

Absorption

Amlodipine is rapidly and extensively absorbed after oral administration. The mean of the absolute bioavailability of amlodipine is about 64%. Valsartan is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and reaches peak concentrations in approximately 0.5 to 2.5 hours.

Route of Elimination

Amlodipine is slowly and extensively metabolized by the liver. Its major metabolite is excreted in the bile and feces. Valsartan is extensively metabolized in the liver by hydrolysis, oxidation and glucuronidation.

Dosage

Treatment of hypertension: Amlodipine is an effective treatment of hypertension in once daily doses of 2.5 mg - 10 mg while Valsartan is effective in doses of 80 mg-320 mg. In clinical trials with Amlodipine and Valsartan, using amlodipine doses of 5 mg-10 mg and Valsartan doses of 160 mg-320 mg, the antihypertensive effects increased with increasing doses. The majority of the antihypertensive effect is attained within 2 weeks after initiation of therapy or a change in dose. The dosage can be increased after 1 to 2 weeks of therapy to a maximum of 10/320 mg once daily as needed to control blood pressure. This combination may be administered with or without food. This combination may be administered with other antihypertensive agents. A patient whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with Amlodipine alone or with Valsartan alone may be switched to this combination therapy.

Elderly patients: Because of decreased clearance of Amlodipine, therapy should usually be initiated at 2.5 mg.

Renal Impairment: No initial dosage adjustment is required for patients with mild or moderate renal impairment. Titrate slowly in patients with severe renal impairment.

Hepatic Impairment: No initial dosage adjustment is required for patients with mild or moderate liver insufficiency. Titrate slowly in patients with hepatic impairment.

The dosage of Amlodipine besilate + valsartan will be determined by the prescribing physician, based on patient-specific factors such as age, sex, medical condition, and other medications being taken. The usual recommended dose is amlodipine 5 mg and valsartan 160 mg, taken once a day. The dose can be increased if needed.

Administration

Amlodipine besilate + valsartan should be taken as directed by your doctor. It should be taken as a single daily dose, with or without food. The tablets should be swallowed whole and not split, crushed, or chewed. It may take a few weeks for the full effects to be seen, so it is important to take the medication regularly and as prescribed.

Side Effects

The most common side effects of Amlodipine besilate + valsartan are headache, dizziness, nausea, weakness, abdominal pain, diarrhea, and fatigue. Other side effects may include high potassium levels, low blood pressure, back pain, and rash. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor immediately.

Toxicity

The symptoms of an Amlodipine besilate + valsartan overdose may include hypotension, bradycardia, and dizziness. If you experience signs of an overdose, call your doctor or seek emergency medical help immediately.

Precautions

This medication should not be taken if you are allergic to amlodipine or valsartan. It should not be taken if you have a history of heart failure, kidney disease, or liver disease. It may also not be safe for people with certain medical conditions, such as diabetes or high cholesterol. Pregnant or nursing women should not take this medication unless instructed by their doctor.

Interactions

Amlodipine besilate + valsartan may interact with other medicines, vitamins, or herbal supplements. It is important to inform your doctor of all medications, vitamins, or herbs you are taking. Some of the more common interactions include other medications used to treat high blood pressure such as ACE inhibitors, aspirin, and NSAIDs, lithium, and grapefruit products.

Disease Interactions

Amlodipine besilate + valsartan may reduce renal function in patients with impaired renal function. It is not recommended for use in patients with severe renal impairment or end-stage renal disease. It is also not recommended for patients with asthma, as it can worsen the symptoms.

Drug Interactions

Amlodipine besilate + valsartan may interact with other medications, such as certain antibiotics (aminoglycosides, macrolides), medications used to treat anxiety or depression (tricyclics), and medications used to treat migraine. It is important to inform your doctor of all medications you are taking before taking Amlodipine besilate + valsartan.

Food Interactions

Amlodipine besilate + valsartan may interact with certain foods, such as grapefruit and grapefruit juice, so it is important to consult your doctor or pharmacist before consuming them. Additionally, drinking alcohol while taking this medication may lower your blood pressure, so it is best to avoid drinking alcohol while taking Amlodipine besilate + valsartan.

Pregnancy Use

This medication should be used during pregnancy only when deemed necessary by your doctor. It is not recommended for use in pregnant women unless the benefit outweighs the risks. Women who are breastfeeding should not take this medication, as it may cause harm to the infant.

Lactation Use

This medication is not recommended for breastfeeding women as it may pass into the breastmilk and cause harm to the infant.

Acute Overdose

Symptoms of an acute overdose of Amlodipine besilate + valsartan may include hypotension, bradycardia, and dizziness. If an overdose is suspected, seek medical help immediately.

Contraindication

Use Direction

Amlodipine besilate + valsartan should be taken as directed by your doctor. The usual recommended dose is amlodipine 5 mg and valsartan 160 mg, taken once a day. The dose can be increased if needed, but should not exceed amlodipine 10 mg and valsartan 320 mg per day. The tablets should be swallowed whole and not split, crushed, or chewed.