What is the brand name for Valsartan?
The brand name for Valsartan is Diovan.
PTCE Top 200 · #85
Valsartan
Diovan
Valsartan is the generic name for the brand-name drug Diovan. It is an arb (angiotensin ii receptor blocker) used to treat hypertension, HF. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Valsartan ranks #85 and is one of the most frequently tested cardiovascular medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Valsartan |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Diovan |
| Drug class | ARB (angiotensin II receptor blocker) |
| Class group | Cardiovascular |
| Common use | hypertension, HF |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Valsartan used for?
ARB used to treat hypertension; also used in heart failure and to reduce mortality after myocardial infarction in appropriate patients.
What drug class is Valsartan?
Valsartan is an ARB (angiotensin II receptor blocker) in the Cardiovascular group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Valsartan
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightLow blood pressure (hypotension)
- arrow_rightHigh potassium (hyperkalemia)
- arrow_rightKidney function worsening (↑ creatinine)
- arrow_rightFatigue
Major interactions
- arrow_rightPotassium supplements/salt substitutes or potassium‑sparing diuretics (e.g., spironolactone, triamterene) ↑ hyperkalemia risk
- arrow_rightNSAIDs may ↓ antihypertensive effect and ↑ risk of renal impairment (esp. dehydration/CKD)
- arrow_rightLithium levels may increase → toxicity (monitor)
- arrow_rightAliskiren: avoid combination in diabetes; caution in renal impairment
Is Valsartan a controlled substance?
No. Valsartan is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
warning Boxed warning
WARNING: FETAL TOXICITY — discontinue as soon as pregnancy is detected; drugs acting on the renin‑angiotensin system can injure or kill the developing fetus.
How to remember Valsartan (PTCE mnemonic)
DI-ovan DIvines BP down — valSARTAN = ARB. 'SARTAN = stop in pregnancy', watch K+ and creatinine; cough-free ACE alternative.
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Valsartan (-sartan) is an ARB — like losartan, used when an ACE inhibitor's cough is a problem; watch potassium and avoid in pregnancy.
Valsartan FAQ
What is Valsartan used for?
Valsartan is used to treat hypertension, HF. ARB used to treat hypertension; also used in heart failure and to reduce mortality after myocardial infarction in appropriate patients.
What drug class is Valsartan?
Valsartan is an ARB (angiotensin II receptor blocker) (Cardiovascular group).
Is Valsartan a controlled substance?
No. Valsartan is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group
Drill Valsartan the way the PTCE asks it
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Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).