Co-Diovan 160/25mg 30 Tabs, valsartan
Codiovan (Valsartan and Hydrochlorothiazide) is
used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Hydrochlorothiazide is a type
of medicine called a thiazide diuretic. Thiazide diuretics act in the kidneys,
where they increase the production of urine. They work by causing the kidneys to
increase the amount of salts, such as potassium and sodium, that are filtered
out of the blood and into the urine.
When these salts are filtered out of the blood by the kidneys, water is also drawn alongside.
As hydrochlorothiazide increases the removal of salts from the blood, it also causes more water to be
drawn out of the blood and into the urine. Removing water from the blood
decreases the volume of fluid circulating through the blood vessels. The drop in
fluid volume results in a drop in the pressure of the fluid within the blood
vessels, which helps to lower high blood pressure. It also decreases the effort
required by the heart to pump blood around the body. Valsartan is a type of
medicine called an angiotensin II antagonist. It works by blocking receptors in
the body known as angiotensin II receptors. This prevents the action of a
hormone called angiotensin II. Angiotensin II is produced naturally by the body
and plays an important part in regulating blood pressure and fluid balance. It
has two main actions. It causes the blood vessels to narrow and the kidneys to
retain salt and water.
As valsartan blocks angiotensin II receptors, it prevents
the actions of angiotensin II, causing its effects to be reversed. As a result,
the blood vessels widen and the amount of fluid removed from the blood by the
kidneys is increased. This decreases the amount of fluid in the blood vessels,
which lessens the resistance and pressure in the blood vessels. The overall
effect of this is a reduction in blood pressure. Valsartan and
hydrochlorothiazide have an additive effect on lowering blood pressure.
This combination medicine is used to treat high blood pressure in people whose blood
pressure is not adequately controlled on valsartan alone.
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