Disys 160 mg

Description

Indications
Disys is prescribed for:

• The treatment of hypertension.
• Reducing hospital admissions in patients with congestive heart failure.
• Reducing mortality in patients who develop congestive heart failure following a myocardial infarction.
  Use this medicine as prescribed by a registered physician.

Pharmacology
Valsartan is an oral medication categorized as an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). It is highly effective in blocking angiotensin II from binding to the AT1 receptor, which plays a key role in constricting blood vessels and raising blood pressure. By inhibiting this action, Valsartan helps dilate blood vessels and reduces blood pressure, without affecting heart rate. Valsartan specifically targets the AT1 receptor, having approximately 20,000 times greater affinity for it than the AT2 receptor, and does not interact with other hormone receptors or ion channels crucial for cardiovascular function.

Dosage

• Hypertension: The recommended starting dose is 80 to 160 mg once daily, with a maximum dose of 320 mg per day. The optimal effect on blood pressure is usually seen within 4 weeks.
• Heart Failure: The typical starting dose is 40 mg twice daily, which can be gradually increased to 80-160 mg twice daily as tolerated.
• Post-Myocardial Infarction: Initially, 20 mg twice daily is recommended. The dose can be increased to 160 mg daily if the patient tolerates it without side effects.
  Follow the guidance of a registered healthcare provider for correct dosage.

Administration
To maximize the absorption of Valsartan, it should be taken on an empty stomach, as food can decrease absorption by approximately 40%. No adjustment to the initial dosage is required for elderly patients with mild to moderate renal or liver issues.
Take the medication as directed by your healthcare provider.

Drug Interactions
Clinical studies have not identified any significant drug interactions. However, drugs such as Cimetidine, Warfarin, Furosemide, Digoxin, Atenolol, Indomethacin, Hydrochlorothiazide, Amlodipine, and Glibenclamide have been tested.
As Valsartan is not extensively metabolized, it is unlikely to cause significant interactions with other drugs through the cytochrome P450 system. In vitro studies have shown no meaningful interaction with other highly protein-bound drugs like Diclofenac, Furosemide, and Warfarin. However, caution is advised when taking Valsartan in combination with potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, or salt substitutes containing potassium, as this may increase serum potassium levels.

Contraindications
Valsartan should not be used by patients who are hypersensitive to any component of this medication.

Side Effects
Disys is generally well-tolerated, with side effects being uncommon. The most frequently reported side effects include headache, dizziness, fatigue, abdominal discomfort, cough, diarrhea, nausea, hyperkalemia, impotence, reduced kidney function, allergic reactions, shortness of breath, constipation, back pain, muscle cramps, rash, anxiety, insomnia, and vertigo. Additionally, hypotension may occur in patients who are also on diuretics.

Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: Valsartan should not be used during pregnancy, particularly in the second and third trimesters, as it can cause serious harm or even death to the fetus. Discontinue the medication as soon as pregnancy is confirmed.
• Lactation: It is unknown whether Valsartan is excreted in breast milk. Due to the potential risks to the infant, the decision to either discontinue breastfeeding or discontinue the drug should be made based on the drug’s importance to the mother.

Precautions & Warnings

• Impaired Liver Function: Since Valsartan is primarily eliminated via bile, caution is advised in patients with mild to moderate liver impairment, including those with biliary obstruction.
• Impaired Kidney Function: Dosage adjustments may be required for patients with pre-existing kidney problems.
• Heart Failure and Myocardial Infarction: Use with caution when initiating treatment in patients with heart failure or those recovering from a heart attack.

Use in Special Populations

• Pediatric Use: The safety and effectiveness of Valsartan in children have not been established.
• Geriatric Use: No overall differences in efficacy or safety have been noted in elderly patients, although greater sensitivity in some individuals may occur.
• Hepatic Impairment:
  • Mild to Moderate: Maximum dose of 80 mg daily.
  • Severe: Contraindicated.

Overdose Effects
Data on overdose in humans is limited. Symptoms of overdose are most likely to include low blood pressure (hypotension) and a rapid heartbeat (tachycardia), with the possibility of bradycardia due to parasympathetic (vagal) stimulation. In cases of excessive hypotension, patients should be placed in a supine position, and an intravenous infusion of normal saline may be administered if necessary.

Therapeutic Class
Angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB).

Storage Conditions
Store between 15–30°C. Protect from moisture and heat.

Packaging
Disys 160 mg Tablet