| drugs in class | | 1 | | name | Valsartan | | Classification | ARB | | Pharmacokinetics | Valsartan is well absorbed orally, with peak plasma concentrations achieved within 2-4 hours. It undergoes extensive first-pass metabolism. Elimination is primarily via the kidneys. | | suggested dosage | Initial dosage typically 80-160mg daily, titrated up as needed. Maximum dose is 320mg daily. | | indications | Hypertension, heart failure, diabetic nephropathy (in some cases), prevention of stroke in high-risk patients. | | Safety in pregnancy | Category D. Should be used only if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the fetus. There are concerns related to fetal kidney development and other risks. | | Safety in breastfeeding | Limited data available. Potential for excretion into breast milk is unknown, so use cautiously. | | side effects | Dizziness, headache, fatigue, hypotension (low blood pressure), hyperkalemia (high potassium levels), kidney problems, cough (less common than ACE inhibitors), angioedema (swelling of face/throat). | | alternatives | | | contraindications | History of angioedema, severe kidney impairment, concurrent use with other drugs that raise potassium levels (potassium-sparing diuretics), pregnancy (category D). | | interactions | Concurrent use with ACE inhibitors, potassium-sparing diuretics, lithium, NSAIDs, or other medications that affect kidney function may increase the risk of adverse effects. | | warnings and precautions | Monitor blood pressure and kidney function regularly. Caution is necessary in patients with pre-existing kidney disease. Monitor potassium levels. Monitor for signs of angioedema (swelling). | | additional informations | Avoid sudden discontinuation. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking. |
| | 2 | | name | Losartan | | Classification | ARB | | Pharmacokinetics | Losartan is well absorbed orally, with peak plasma concentrations achieved within 1-4 hours. It is metabolized by the liver into active metabolites, thus maintaining blood pressure reduction. | | suggested dosage | Typical starting dosage is 50mg once daily. Adjustment may be made as necessary. Maximum dosage is 100mg daily. | | indications | Hypertension, stroke prevention, diabetic nephropathy (in some cases). | | Safety in pregnancy | Category D. Not generally recommended during pregnancy due to the risk to the fetus. | | Safety in breastfeeding | Limited data. Use cautiously, considering potential excretion into breast milk. | | side effects | Dizziness, headache, fatigue, hypotension, hyperkalemia, kidney problems, cough, angioedema. | | alternatives | | | contraindications | History of angioedema, severe kidney disease, concurrent use with other drugs that increase potassium levels. | | interactions | Similar to Valsartan. Caution with concurrent use of other medications that affect renal function. | | warnings and precautions | Similar to Valsartan regarding monitoring of blood pressure and kidney function. | | additional informations | Avoid sudden discontinuation. |
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