Exforge (Amlodipine/Valsartan)

What is Exforge?

Exforge (Amlodipine and Valsartan) belongs to a class of drugs called the calcium channel blockers.

What is Exforge used for?

Exforge is indicated for the treatment of hypertension or high blood pressure when a single drug fails to control blood pressure on its own. Reducing high blood pressure helps prevent heart attacks, strokes and kidney problems.

How does Exforge work?

Exforge is a combination of amlodipine and valsartan. Amlodipine works by relaxing the muscles of heart and blood vessels. Valsartan, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, prevents blood vessels from narrowing and thus improves blood flow.

How to use Exforge

Exforge should be used as directed by the doctor. Taking the medicine for longer period or in larger amount than prescribed can be harmful.

The dosage of Exforge depends on your age, medical condition and response to treatment.

Exforge is usually taken orally once a day, with or without food, unless otherwise prescribed by your doctor. It should be taken regularly, preferably at the same time each day, for maximum benefit.

Do not increase the dose or stop taking the medicine unless directed by your doctor. The dose needs to be decreased gradually, otherwise some conditions may worsen.

Inform your doctor if your condition worsens.

Exforge warnings and precautions

Exforge is not administered to patients who are allergic to amlodipine or valsartan.

Prior to taking the medication inform your doctor if you are allergic to any other drug or have any of the following conditions: liver or kidney disease, vomiting, diarrhea, congestive heart failure, recent history of a heart attack, angina, or severe coronary artery disease.

Pregnant and lactating women are advised to take this medicine only after taking doctor’s permission. Also, inform your doctor if you plan to become pregnant during treatment.

What do I do if I have missed a Exforge dose?

If you have missed an Exforge dose, take it as soon as you remember. If, however, it is time for your next dose, the missed dose can be skipped. Do not take extra medication to catch up.

What do I do if I have taken a Exforge overdose?

If you have taken an overdose of Exforge, consult your doctor immediately. 

Exforge interactions

Some drugs which may interact with Exforge include heart and blood pressure medications, diuretics, potassium supplements and salt substitutes.

It is necessary to inform your doctor about all the prescription/non prescription drugs/herbal medicine that you are taking, before taking Exforge.

You should not start taking any new medicine, without consulting your doctor.

Exforge side effects

Side effects from Exforge include allergic reactions such as hives, breathing trouble, and swelling. Seek emergency medical help on appearance of such allergic symptoms. Consult your doctor immediately in case of serious side-effects such as swelling in hands or feet, feeling of passing out, weight gain, pounding heartbeats, chest pain, heavy feeling, jaundice, pain spreading to the arm or shoulder, nausea, sweating, feeling of being ill.

The drug may also cause breakdown of skeletal muscle which in turn leads to kidney failure. Some of the symptoms of such a condition are muscle pain, tenderness, weakness, fever, nausea, vomiting, and dark colored urine.

Dizziness, warmth, redness, or tingly feeling under your skin; spinning sensation, stuffy or runny nose, cough, sore throat, dry mouth, appetite loss, diarrhea, stomach ache, constipation, anxiety, and insomnia are some less serious side effects of Exforge.