Amlodipine and valsartan is a combination of medicines that are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a heart failure or kidney failure. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of strokes and heart attacks. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker (CCB). It affects the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). It works by blocking a substance in the body that causes blood vessels to tighten

Take Exforge exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Follow all directions on your prescription label. Your doctor may occasionally change your dose. Do not use this medicine in larger or smaller amounts or for longer than recommended. You may take Exforge with or without food. It may take up to 4 weeks for this medication to control your blood pressure. Keep using this medicine as directed, even if you feel well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.

It is very important that your doctor check your progress at regular visits to make sure this medicine is working properly. Blood and urine tests may be needed to check for unwanted effects. Do not take other medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. This especially includes over-the-counter (nonprescription) medicines for appetite control, asthma, colds, cough, hay fever, or sinus problems, since they may increase your blood pressure. Using this medicine while you are pregnant can harm your unborn baby. Use an effective form of birth control to keep from getting pregnant. If you think you have become pregnant while using the medicine, tell your doctor right away.

Common Side Effects of Exforge

Tell your doctor if any of the following side effects become severe or don't go away:

- Inflammation of the nose and throat

- Dizziness

- Sleepiness

- Nausea or stomach pain

- Diarrhea

- Urinary tract infection

- Swelling of the feet, ankles, and lower legs

- People over age 65 may develop skin rashes, like eczema, after taking Exforge for a while.

Serious Side Effects of Exforge

Tell your doctor right away if you experience any of the following serious side effects:

- Changes in vision

- Fainting

- Severe dizziness upon standing

- Ringing in the ears

- Enlargement of breasts (in men)

- Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)

- Low blood pressure

- Heart attack or angina (chest pain)

- Muscle weakness

- Back pain

- Brown-colored urine

- Severe allergic reaction (indicated by hives, rash, itching, chest tightness, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat)

How harmful is it to use Exforge for hypertension for the liver with alcohol?

Exforge HCT has three blood pressure medications in it, and they all exit the body through the liver. Alcohol should be kept to a minimum with this medication, for blood pressure reasons as well as liver health.

What should I avoid while taking Amlodipine and Valsartan (Exforge)? 

Do not use potassium supplements or salt substitutes while you are taking amlodipine and valsartan unless your doctor has told you to.

Do I follow a special diet while using this medication?

Blood pressure medication is only part of a complete treatment program that may also include diet, exercise, regular blood pressure checks, lifestyle changes, and other medications. Follow your doctor's instructions very carefully.