GP and surgeon, Dr Shane Charles (MBBS, MRCS, PgDip SEM) provides a simple explanation of the medication below:

'Valsartan (Hydrochlorothiazide) is an agent used in the treatment of hypertension and works by blocking the angiotensin-II receptor. '.

If you think Valsartan (Hydrochlorothiazide) is a treatment that can help you, start an online consultation now for a registered prescriber to review. If treatment is deemed suitable, they can prescribe it, and we can deliver it to you from the comfort of your own home with a range of convenient delivery and payment options for you to choose from. If you have any questions about a medication, you should always consult your doctor with any questions prior to starting treatment, to ensure that it is safe and suitable for you.

Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide is a combination medication that is used to control high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. You are considered to have high blood pressure if you have a reading of 140/90mmHg or above.

This is a combination medication that includes Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide. Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist that relaxes blood vessels. Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic that helps to increase urine output, thus lowering blood pressure. 

This medication should usually be taken at the same time every day. It is often recommended that you take Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide in the mornings. You should, however, always use the medication as you have been told to by your doctor.

You should only ever take the dosage of Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide that has been prescribed to you by your doctor. The recommended dose of Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide is one tablet a day. You should not exceed your recommended dosage. 

Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide is a suitable medication for helping to treat high blood pressure in people over the age of 18 years old.

Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide may not be a suitable medication for some people. This medication should not be used by anyone who is allergic to any of the ingredients in the medication. Do not take Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide if:

• You have had skin cancer
• You develop an unexpected skin lesion
• You experienced breathing or lung problems

Your doctor will usually advise you to stop taking Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide if you are pregnant or if you are trying to become pregnant. This medication must not be taken after the first 3 months of pregnancy.

No, you should not use Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide if you are breastfeeding. Your doctor may find another medication for you to use if you are breastfeeding.

Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide may interact with some medications. You need to let your healthcare provider know if you are using other medications. Let your doctor know if:

• You are using lithium
• You are using medications that may increase the levels of potassium in the blood
• You are using some antibiotics
• You are using medications that reduce the amount of sodium in the blood
• You are using medications that treat gout
• You are using therapeutic vitamin D and calcium supplements

As with all other medications, some people may experience side effects when they are using Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide. Some of the more common side effects include:

• Low levels of potassium in the blood
• Increase levels of lipids in the blood
• Low levels of sodium in the blood
• Low levels of magnesium in the blood
• Itchy rashes 
• Reduced appetite
• Mild nausea and vomiting
• Dizziness

To fully understand the warnings associated with Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide you should read the patient information leaflet that is provided with your medication.

You can purchase Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide online from UK Meds which will be delivered straight to your door.