Cardovan Plus

Cardovan Plus Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, Mechanism of Action, How Long Does it Take to Work? Cardovan Plus is a brand name. Its generic name is Valsartan + Hydrochlorothiazide.

Introduction

Cardovan Plus is a combination drug that is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It is used when alone treatment with either drug has not been effective or if the patient's doctor decides that a combination drug is best for them.

Uses

Cardovan Plus is an antihypertensive medicine, used for the treatment of essential hypertension. The drug is also used for the treatment of edema (fluid retention).

Mechanism of action

Valsartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) and works by blocking the effects of angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is a hormone that narrows blood vessels and increases blood pressure. By blocking the action of angiotensin II, Valsartan causes the blood vessels to relax which decreases blood pressure and improves blood flow. Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic (water pill) and works by increasing the amount of water and sodium that is excreted in the urine. This increased urine output decreases the amount of water in the body, which reduces blood volume, which causes a decrease in blood pressure.

How long does it take to work?

Although individual patient response will vary, it usually takes 2-4 weeks for Cardovan Plus to reach a therapeutic effect on blood pressure.

Absorption

No information available.

Route of elimination

Cardovan Plus is primarily eliminated through the kidneys, with approximately 66% of its metabolites excreted via the urine.

Dosage

Cardovan Plus is available in tablets containing 80 mg of valsartan and 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide, and 160 mg of valsartan and 12.5 mg of hydrochlorothiazide. Patients should take Cardovan Plus exactly as their doctor has prescribed.

Administration

Cardovan Plus should be taken orally once daily with or without food.

Side effects

Common side effects of Cardovan Plus include dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, tiredness, nausea, diarrhea, and rash. These side effects are usually mild and will go away with time. In rare cases, more serious side effects can occur, such as fainting, severe low blood pressure, and difficulty breathing. If these side effects occur, the patient should seek medical attention immediately.

Toxicity

Cardovan Plus is not typically toxic if taken as prescribed by the doctor. However, if the drug is taken in large doses, it can lead to serious and potentially life-threatening conditions, including low blood pressure, electrolyte imbalances, and kidney damage.

Precautions

Patients on Cardovan Plus should not stop taking the drug without consulting with their doctor. The drug can cause a sudden worsening of blood pressure if stopped abruptly.

Interactions

Cardovan Plus can interact with other medicines and supplements, so patients should always let their doctor know of any other medicines or supplements they are taking.

Disease Interactions

Patients with kidney disease, liver disease, heart disease, or diabetes should discuss with their doctor whether Cardovan Plus is safe for them to take.

Drug Interactions

Cardovan Plus can interact with other drugs and should be used with caution in patients taking ACE inhibitors, ARBs, lithium, probenecid, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs).

Food Interactions

No information available.

Pregnancy Use

Cardovan Plus should not be taken by pregnant women. This drug can cause birth defects and harm an unborn baby.

Lactation Use

Cardovan Plus is excreted in breast milk and should not be used by nursing mothers.

Acute Overdose

Signs of an acute overdose may include low blood pressure, difficulty breathing, dizziness, and fainting. If an overdose is suspected, seek medical help immediately.

Contraindication

Cardovan Plus should not be used by patients who are hypersensitive to either valsartan or hydrochlorothiazide.

Use Direction

Cardovan Plus should be taken exactly as prescribed by the doctor. Patients should not adjust their dose or cease taking the drug without consulting with their doctor.

Storage Condition

Cardovan Plus should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.

Volume of Distribution

No information available.

Half Life

Valsartan has a half-life of approximately 6 hours, with a range of 2.3 to 8 hours. Hydrochlorothiazide has a half-life of approximately 6.3 hours, with a range of 1.5 to 25.6 hours.

Clearance

No information available.

Here you find in details version of Cardovan Plus

Some Frequently Asked Questions About Cardovan Plus

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What is Cardovan Plus?

Cardovan Plus is a combination medication, containing the drugs valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide. Valsartan is an angiotensin-receptor blocker, which works to relax the muscles of the blood vessels. Hydrochlorothiazide is a type of diuretic, which helps to reduce the amount of fluid in the body.

What is the purpose of taking Cardovan Plus?

Cardovan Plus is used to treat high blood pressure. This combination medication works to relax the muscles of the blood vessels and reduce the amount of fluid in the body to help lower blood pressure.

How do I take Cardovan Plus?

Cardovan Plus should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Generally, the medication is taken once a day. It is important to take the medication at approximately the same time each day and to not miss any doses.

What are the possible side effects of taking Cardovan Plus?

Common side effects of taking Cardovan Plus include headache, tired feeling, weakness, drowsiness, nausea, vomiting, upset stomach, increased urination, muscle cramps, itching, joint pain, and blurred vision. If these side effects become severe, contact your doctor.

Who should not take Cardovan Plus?

Cardovan Plus is not suitable for everyone. People who are allergic to either valsartan or hydrochlorothiazide should not take Cardovan Plus. It is important to inform your doctor about any medications you are currently taking, as some medications can interact negatively with Cardovan Plus.

Is Cardovan Plus safe during pregnancy?

There is not enough research to determine whether Cardovan Plus is safe during pregnancy. It is important to speak with your doctor before taking Cardovan Plus if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Cardovan Plus?

If you miss a dose of Cardovan Plus, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled. It is important not to double the dose.

Can I take Cardovan Plus with other medications?

It is important to speak with your doctor before taking Cardovan Plus with other medications, as some medications can interact negatively with Cardovan Plus. These include other blood pressure medications, NSAIDs, antivirals, antifungals, lithium, and digoxin.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Cardovan Plus?

Drinking alcohol while taking Cardovan Plus is not recommended, as alcohol can increase the risk of side effects such as lightheadedness and fainting. It is important to consult with your doctor before drinking alcohol while taking Cardovan Plus.

When should I stop taking Cardovan Plus?

Cardovan Plus should generally be taken as prescribed by your doctor. If you experience severe side effects, it is important to contact your doctor, who may advise to stop taking the medication. You should never stop taking Cardovan Plus without first speaking to your doctor.

What should I do if I experience an allergic reaction while taking Cardovan Plus?

If you experience an allergic reaction while taking Cardovan Plus, stop taking the medication right away and seek medical help. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include hives, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, tongue, and throat.

What should I do if I experience chest pain while taking Cardovan Plus?

If you experience chest pain while taking Cardovan Plus, stop taking the medication right away and seek medical help. Chest pain is a potential side effect of taking Cardovan Plus.

Can I take Cardovan Plus to treat a cough?

No, Cardovan Plus should not be taken to treat a cough. Cardovan Plus is a medication used to treat high blood pressure, not a cough.

Can children take Cardovan Plus?

No, Cardovan Plus is not suitable for children. Cardovan Plus is only approved for use in adults.

Can I take Cardovan Plus if I have diabetes?

Yes, you can take Cardovan Plus if you have diabetes. However, it is important to let your doctor know that you have diabetes, as some medications can interact negatively with Cardovan Plus.

What happens if I take an overdose of Cardovan Plus?

If you take an overdose of Cardovan Plus, it is important to seek medical help right away. Symptoms of an overdose can include nausea, vomiting, dizziness, and fainting.

What should I do if I forget to take my dose of Cardovan Plus?

If you forget to take a dose of Cardovan Plus, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take your next dose as scheduled. It is important not to double the dose.

Can I take Cardovan Plus if I have a kidney condition?

Yes, you can take Cardovan Plus if you have a kidney condition. However, it is important to consult with your doctor before taking the medication. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or monitor your kidney condition more closely.

Can Cardovan Plus cause weight gain?

Cardovan Plus has not been proven to cause weight gain. However, if you are experiencing abnormal weight gain while taking Cardovan Plus, it is important to consult with your doctor.

Can Cardovan Plus cause dry mouth?

Yes, Cardovan Plus can cause dry mouth. If you experience dry mouth while taking Cardovan Plus, it is important to speak with your doctor.

Can I take Cardovan Plus if I am breastfeeding?

No, Cardovan Plus is not suitable for breastfeeding women. It is important to consult with your doctor if you are breastfeeding before taking Cardovan Plus.

What should I do if I experience dizziness while taking Cardovan Plus?

If you experience dizziness while taking Cardovan Plus, it is important to speak with your doctor. You may need to have your dose adjusted or you may need to stop taking the medication.

Are there any dietary restrictions while taking Cardovan Plus?

No, there are no dietary restrictions while taking Cardovan Plus. However, it is important to speak with your doctor before making any major changes to your diet, as some dietary factors may affect the effectiveness of the medication.

What should I do if I experience diarrhea while taking Cardovan Plus?

If you experience diarrhea while taking Cardovan Plus, it is important to contact your doctor. Diarrhea is a potential side effect of taking this medication.

What should I do if I experience joint pain while taking Cardovan Plus?

If you experience joint pain while taking Cardovan Plus, it is important to contact your doctor. Joint pain is a potential side effect of taking this medication.

Can I take Cardovan Plus while pregnant?

There is not enough research to determine whether Cardovan Plus is safe during pregnancy. It is important to speak with your doctor before taking Cardovan Plus if you are pregnant or trying to become pregnant.

How quickly does Cardovan Plus work?

Cardovan Plus begins working right away. However, it may take several weeks for the full effects of the medication to be reached.

Can Cardovan Plus cause hair loss?

Cardovan Plus has not been proven to cause hair loss. However, if you are experiencing abnormal hair loss while taking Cardovan Plus, it is important to consult with your doctor.

Is it safe to take Cardovan Plus with other blood pressure medications?

No, it is not safe to take Cardovan Plus with other blood pressure medications. It is important to speak with your doctor before taking Cardovan Plus with other medications, as some medications can interact negatively with Cardovan Plus.

Can I take Cardovan Plus if I have liver disease?

Yes, you can take Cardovan Plus if you have liver disease. However, it is important to consult with your doctor before taking the medication. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or monitor your liver condition more closely.

What should I do if my blood pressure does not improve while taking Cardovan Plus?

If your blood pressure does not improve while taking Cardovan Plus, it is important to contact your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or try a different medication to help lower your blood pressure.

Does Cardovan Plus interact with any other medications?

Yes, Cardovan Plus can interact with other medications. It is important to speak with your doctor before taking Cardovan Plus with other medications, as some medications can interact negatively with Cardovan Plus. These include other blood pressure medications, NSAIDs, antivirals, antifungals, lithium, and digoxin.

Can Cardovan Plus be used to treat heart failure?

No, Cardovan Plus should not be used to treat heart failure. Cardovan Plus is a medication used to treat high blood pressure, not heart failure.

Does Cardovan Plus cause fatigue?

Yes, Cardovan Plus can cause fatigue. If you experience fatigue while taking Cardovan Plus, it is important to contact your doctor. Your doctor may need to adjust your dose or switch you to a different medication.

Does Cardovan Plus cause insomnia?