Exforge (Amlodipine/Valsartan) is a combination medication that is used for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker and it works by relaxing the muscles of your heart and blood vessels. Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist and it keeps the blood vessels from narrowing, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow. Exforge is usually prescribed if treatment of hypertension with other medications has not been successful.
Manufacturer Information
We currently have the brand Exforge from Turkey and UK manufactured by Novartis. This medication is available in the strength of 5mg/80mg, 5mg/160mg and 10mg/160mg tablets. There is no generic available for this medication.
The common side effects may include abdominal/stomach pain, dry cough, dizziness or lightheadedness and fatigue.
The serious side effects may include:
• Chest/jaw/left arm pain;
• Shortness of breath;
• Worsening chest pain;
• Unusual sweating
You should not use Exforge if you are allergic to Amlodipine or Valsartan. If you have diabetes or kidney disease, do not use Exforge together with any medication that contains Aliskiren such as Amturnide, Tekturna, Tekamlo, Valturna. You should not use Exforge if you are pregnant. Stop using this medication and tell your doctor right away if you become pregnant. You should use effective birth control while taking this medication. It is unknown whether Amlodipine and Valsartan passes into breast milk or if it could harm a nursing baby. You should not breast-feed while taking Exforge. This drug may make you dizzy. Limit alcoholic beverages.