Valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide

Valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide is a medication used to treat high blood pressure. It is a combination of two drugs, valsartan and hydrochlorothiazide, which work together to lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of stroke and heart attack.

Etymology

The name "valsartan" is derived from the Latin "valere", meaning "to be strong", and "sartan", a suffix used in the names of angiotensin II receptor antagonists. "Hydrochlorothiazide" is derived from the Greek "hydro-", meaning "water", "chloro-", meaning "green", and "thiazide", a class of diuretics.

Mechanism of action

Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, which means it blocks the action of a hormone in the body called angiotensin II. Angiotensin II causes blood vessels to constrict and promotes the release of another hormone called aldosterone, which increases the amount of sodium and water in the body. By blocking the action of angiotensin II, valsartan helps to relax and widen blood vessels and reduce the amount of water in the body.

Hydrochlorothiazide is a thiazide diuretic, which works by increasing the amount of urine produced by the kidneys. This helps to lower blood pressure by reducing the amount of fluid in the blood vessels.

Side effects

Common side effects of valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide include dizziness, headache, and fatigue. Less common but more serious side effects can include kidney failure, liver damage, and low blood pressure.

Related terms

• Angiotensin II receptor antagonist
• Thiazide diuretic
• High blood pressure
• Stroke
• Heart attack

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