Valsartan Adverse Effects and Clinical Considerations

Introduction to Valsartan Safety Profile

• The European Society of Cardiology notes that taste disturbances are a recognized side effect of ACE inhibitors but not angiotensin receptor blockers like valsartan 1

Distinguishing Adverse Effects in Clinical Context

• In patients with cardiovascular disease taking multiple medications, taste changes are more likely attributable to other agents or underlying conditions, as suggested by the European Heart Journal 2
• The American Heart Association, as published in Circulation, indicates that statins, which are commonly co-prescribed with valsartan, do not typically cause taste changes either 3, 4

Monitoring for Common Adverse Effects

• The European Heart Journal recommends monitoring for hypotension, particularly symptomatic hypotension, by regularly checking blood pressure, especially in elderly patients or those on sacubitril/valsartan formulations 2, 5
• The American College of Cardiology, as noted in Circulation and the European Heart Journal, advises monitoring serum potassium levels for hyperkalemia, particularly in patients with chronic kidney disease or those on other RAAS blockers, and monitoring creatinine and estimated glomerular filtration rate for renal dysfunction 2, 6, 7, 8