Valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ) is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure. This medication is a combination of two active ingredients, valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide. Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (which relaxes blood vessels) and hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic (which helps the body to get rid of excess salt and water).

High blood pressure is a dangerous – potentially fatal – condition in which the heart is met with too much resistance from blocked or narrowed arteries as it tries to pump blood and oxygen around your body. When not treated, high blood pressure can lead to an array of serious health issues including heart attack, heart failure, stroke, and many more complications. Nearly half of Americans have high blood pressure, and heart disease is the leading cause of death of people in the United States.

Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker. Angiotensin II is a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to narrow. Valsartan blocks the effects of angiotensin II, relaxing and widening your blood vessels. This helps lower your blood pressure and makes it easier for your heart to pump blood and oxygen to the various parts of the body.

Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic. It reduces the amount of fluid in the body, which also helps lower blood pressure.

While adverse reactions to Valsartan/HCTZ are uncommon, some patients who take the drug may experience mild side effects. The most common adverse effects of Valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide are dizziness or lightheadedness. These are normally mild and usually go away as your body adjusts to the medication. Let your doctor know you experience any severe side effects or if these don’t go away.

This medication can cause a loss of too much body water and electrolytes. Some symptoms of dehydration or mineral loss include extreme thirst, muscle cramps or weakness, very dry mouth, changes to your heartbeat, or confusion. Talk to your doctor right away if you experience any of these symptoms.

A very serious reaction is rare but can occur. Get immediate medical attention if you experience fainting, a decrease in vision, eye pain, symptoms of high potassium levels (muscle weakness or irregular heartbeat), signs of kidney problems or an allergic reaction (such as rash, hives, itching, swelling, difficulty breathing or swallowing).

Talk to your doctor about your medical history - particularly if you have or have had kidney or liver disease, lupus, gout, or skin cancer. Inform your doctor of all known allergies and of all medications and supplements that you take. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

This is not a complete list of side effects or precautions. For more information please visit the National Institutes of Health’s DailyMed webpage for valsartan & hydrochlorothiazide.

The diuretic effects from the hydrochlorothiazide should begin in about 2 hours, peak in 4 hours, and will last for 6 to 12 hours. Valsartan starts to work towards reducing high blood pressure within 4 to 6 hours. You may need to take these medicines consistently for 2 to 4 weeks for full effect.

You should continue taking valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide even if you feel well. High blood pressure often does not have any symptoms and you may not notice a difference in how you feel even if the medicine is achieving the desired effect. Do not stop taking your medicine without consulting your doctor.

Valsartan/HCTZ is commonly supplied as an oral tablet. The specific dosage ordered by your health care provider depends on your condition, your age, and your body weight. Take this medication exactly as ordered. Do not increase or discontinue the dosage without consulting with your health care provider first.

Dosages may vary among different patients. Many things can affect the dosage prescribed, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and any other medications that you’re taking. Take valsartan/HCTZ only as prescribed by your doctor.

Valsartan/HCTZ is currently only available via prescription. This means the use of this drug must be authorized by a licensed health care provider.

Providers on Sesame can write a prescription – or refill an existing one – during a virtual or in-person visit. Depending on the medication, you can arrange for same-day pickup at a pharmacy near you. Book an online consultation with a real, licensed provider on Sesame today to determine whether or not valsartan/HCTZ is right for you.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your health care provider. Providers on Sesame cannot prescribe controlled substances.

Good news! If deemed clinically appropriate, providers on Sesame can write a prescription for valsartan/HCTZ to be picked up near you – often within the same day! Simply talk to a clinician and get your online doctor prescription or refill ordered right away for fast and convenient pickup from a pharmacy of your choice.

Note that all prescriptions are at the discretion of your healthcare provider.