Generic name:valsartan (oral route) [ val-SAR-tan ]
Drug class:Angiotensin receptor blockers
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Apr 21, 2022.
When pregnancy is detected, discontinue valsartan as soon as possible. Drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system can cause injury and death to the developing fetus .
The Prexxartan brand name has been discontinued in the U.S. If generic versions of this product have been approved by the FDA, there may be generic equivalents available.
Commonly used brand name(s)
In the U.S.
- Diovan
- Prexxartan
Available Dosage Forms:
- Solution
- Tablet
Therapeutic Class: Cardiovascular Agent
Pharmacologic Class: Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonist
Uses for Prexxartan
Valsartan is used alone or together with other medicines to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. Lowering blood pressure can reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
Valsartan is also used to treat heart failure and left ventricular failure after a heart attack. Left ventricular failure occurs when the left side of the heart (the main pumping chamber) becomes stiff and enlarged or swollen. This causes pooling of blood in the lungs because the heart is not pumping properly.
Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It works by blocking a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten. Valsartan relaxes the blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. A lower blood pressure will increase the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.
This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.
