Proper Use of This Medicine

Take this medicine only as directed by your doctor . Do not take more of it and do not take it more often than your doctor ordered. This medicine also works best when there is a constant amount in the blood. To help keep the amount constant, do not miss any doses. Also, it is best to take the doses at the same time each day .

Valsartan may be taken with or without food.

Dosing—The dose of valsartan will be different for different patients. Follow your doctor's orders or the directions on the label . The following information includes only the average doses of valsartan. If your dose is different, do not change it unless your doctor tells you to do so.

The number of capsules that you take depends on the strength of the medicine.

• For oral dosage form (capsules):
  • For high blood pressure:
    • Adults—80 milligrams (mg) once a day. Your doctor may increase your dose as needed.
    • Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Missed dose—If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it as soon as possible. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not double doses.

Storage—To store this medicine:

• Keep out of the reach of children.
• Store away from heat and direct light.
• Do not store in the bathroom, near the kitchen sink, or in other damp places. Heat or moisture may cause the medicine to break down.
• Do not keep outdated medicine or medicine no longer needed. Be sure that any discarded medicine is out of the reach of children.