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Question: Can I take Diovan with Norvasc?
| caohuyetap
- Thu Dec 21, 2006 7:00 pm |
I am male 49 and have HBP. My doctor gives me Diovan HCT 160/25mg. After 4 months my BP is S=147, D=82 (it comes down from 165/ 90). then Doctor adds Norvasc 5mg. But it looks like Norvasc makes me feel like my body retains fluid and I go bathroom more often. so is Norvasc right for me? Or should I continue Diovan/HCT 160/25 or should I get Diovan only but 320mg?
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| Dr. Chan Lowe
- Thu Dec 21, 2006 8:53 pm |
 Diovan HCT is a combination medication that includes a hydrochlorothiazide (a Diuretic) and valsartan (a newer class of medication known an an angiotensen receptor blocker or ARB). The valsartan has similar side effects to the more well known ACE Inhibitors.
Norvasc is amlopdipine which is a Calcium channel blocker. This medicine works to reduce the smooth muscle contraction of the blood vessels andallow them to relax some (simply put). It also has some effects on the heart's pumping strength.
There are no significant interactions between these medications, with the exception of both being blood pressure lowering medications, so the two together can occasionally lower BP too much.
If you are experiencing side effects from the medication I would suggest you talk with your doctor. There are many "regimens" to control high blood pressure. You may be able to change to a different method that will give you less side effects. Also, some side effects fade over time, so you may just need a little more time on the medication to adjust to it.
Hope this helps.
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| caohuyetap
- Fri Dec 22, 2006 4:00 am |
Thanks Dr Lowe for your prompt reply. I'll keep on with the medics for a few more weeks.
One more question : what'd be more effective Diovan 320mg or Diovan/HCT 160/25mg?
Thanks a mil
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| Dr. Chan Lowe
- Fri Dec 22, 2006 7:20 am |
Medication effect can vary from person to person. Some may get a lot more benefit by adding the diurectic (Diovan HCT) rather than increasing the dose of the ARB portion. Others may benefit from an increase in dose of the ARB more. Most physicians like to have patients with Hypertension on a diurectic to help, but the program needs to be individualized to what works best.
Your doctor can help you decide which would be the best for you.
Hope this helps.
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