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Indications/Uses
Treatment of essential hypertension.
Valsartan/Amlodipine is indicated in adults whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled on amlodipine or valsartan monotherapy.
Valsartan/Amlodipine is indicated in adults whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled on amlodipine or valsartan monotherapy.
Dosage/Direction for Use
The recommended dose of Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) is one tablet per day. Valsartan 80 mg/Amlodipine 5 mg may be administered in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with amlodipine 5 mg or valsartan 80 mg alone.
Valsartan160 mg/Amlodipine 5 mg may be administered in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with amlodipine 5 mg or valsartan 160 mg alone.
Valsartan 160 mg/Amlodipine 10 mg may be administered in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with amlodipine 10 mg or valsartan 160 mg alone or with Valsartan 160 mg/Amlodipine 5 mg.
Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) can be used with or without food.
Individual dose titration with the components (i.e. amlodipine and valsartan) is recommended before changing to the fixed dose combination. When clinically appropriate, direct change from monotherapy to the fixed-dose combination may be considered.
For convenience, patients receiving valsartan and amlodipine from separate tablets/capsules may be switched to Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) containing the same component doses.
Renal impairment: Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment. No dosage adjustment is required for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. Monitoring of potassium levels and creatinine is advised in moderate renal impairment.
Hepatic impairment: Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment Caution should be exercised when administering Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) to patients with hepatic impairment or biliary obstructive disorders. In patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment without cholestasis, the maximum recommended dose is 80 mg valsartan. Amlodipine dosage recommendations have not been established in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment.
Elderly (age 65 years or over): In elderly patients, caution is required when increasing the dosage.
Paediatric population: The safety and efficacy of Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) in children aged below 18 years have not been established. No data are available.
Method of Administration: Oral use. It is recommended to take Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) with some water.
Valsartan160 mg/Amlodipine 5 mg may be administered in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with amlodipine 5 mg or valsartan 160 mg alone.
Valsartan 160 mg/Amlodipine 10 mg may be administered in patients whose blood pressure is not adequately controlled with amlodipine 10 mg or valsartan 160 mg alone or with Valsartan 160 mg/Amlodipine 5 mg.
Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) can be used with or without food.
Individual dose titration with the components (i.e. amlodipine and valsartan) is recommended before changing to the fixed dose combination. When clinically appropriate, direct change from monotherapy to the fixed-dose combination may be considered.
For convenience, patients receiving valsartan and amlodipine from separate tablets/capsules may be switched to Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) containing the same component doses.
Renal impairment: Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) is contraindicated in patients with severe renal impairment. No dosage adjustment is required for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment. Monitoring of potassium levels and creatinine is advised in moderate renal impairment.
Hepatic impairment: Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) is contraindicated in patients with severe hepatic impairment Caution should be exercised when administering Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) to patients with hepatic impairment or biliary obstructive disorders. In patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment without cholestasis, the maximum recommended dose is 80 mg valsartan. Amlodipine dosage recommendations have not been established in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment.
Elderly (age 65 years or over): In elderly patients, caution is required when increasing the dosage.
Paediatric population: The safety and efficacy of Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) in children aged below 18 years have not been established. No data are available.
Method of Administration: Oral use. It is recommended to take Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) with some water.
Overdosage
Symptoms: There is no experience of overdose with Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A). The major symptom of overdose with valsartan is possibly pronounced hypotension with dizziness. Overdose with amlodipine may result in excessive peripheral vasodilation and, possibly, reflex tachycardia. Marked and potentially prolonged systemic hypotension up to and including shock with fatal outcome have been reported.
Treatment: If ingestion is recent, induction of vomiting or gastric lavage may be considered. Administration of activated charcoal to healthy volunteers immediately or up to two hours after ingestion of amlodipine has been shown to significantly decrease amlodipine absorption. Clinically significant hypotension due to Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) overdose calls for active cardiovascular support, including frequent monitoring of cardiac and respiratory function, elevation of extremities, and attention to circulating fluid volume and urine output. A vasoconstrictor may be helpful in restoring vascular tone and blood pressure, provided that there is no contraindication to its use. Intravenous calcium gluconate may be beneficial in reversing the effects of calcium channel blockade.
Both valsartan and amlodipine are unlikely to be removed by haemodialysis.
Treatment: If ingestion is recent, induction of vomiting or gastric lavage may be considered. Administration of activated charcoal to healthy volunteers immediately or up to two hours after ingestion of amlodipine has been shown to significantly decrease amlodipine absorption. Clinically significant hypotension due to Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) overdose calls for active cardiovascular support, including frequent monitoring of cardiac and respiratory function, elevation of extremities, and attention to circulating fluid volume and urine output. A vasoconstrictor may be helpful in restoring vascular tone and blood pressure, provided that there is no contraindication to its use. Intravenous calcium gluconate may be beneficial in reversing the effects of calcium channel blockade.
Both valsartan and amlodipine are unlikely to be removed by haemodialysis.
Administration
May be taken with or without food.
Contraindications
Hypersensitivity to the active substances, to dihydropyridine derivatives, or to any of the excipients Severe hepatic impairment, biliary cirrhosis or cholestasis.
Severe renal impairment (glomerular filtration rate (GFR) <30 ml/min/1.73 m2) and patients undergoing dialysis. Second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
Severe hypotension.
Shock (including cardiogenic shock).
Obstruction of the outflow tract of the left ventricle (e.g. hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy and high grade aortic stenosis).
Haemodynamically unstable heart failure after acute myocardial infarction.
Severe renal impairment (glomerular filtration rate (GFR) <30 ml/min/1.73 m2) and patients undergoing dialysis. Second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
Severe hypotension.
Shock (including cardiogenic shock).
Obstruction of the outflow tract of the left ventricle (e.g. hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy and high grade aortic stenosis).
Haemodynamically unstable heart failure after acute myocardial infarction.
Warnings
The safety and efficacy of amlodipine in hypertensive crisis have not been established.
Sodium- and/or volume-depleted patients: Excessive hypotension was seen in 0.4% of patients with uncomplicated hypertension treated with Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) in placebo-controlled studies. In patients with an activated renin-angiotensin system (such as volume- and/or salt-depleted patients receiving high doses of diuretics) who are receiving angiotensin receptor blockers, symptomatic hypotension may occur. Correction of this condition prior to administration of Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) or close medical supervision at the start of treatment is recommended.
If hypotension occurs with Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A), the patient should be placed in the supine position and, if necessary, given an intravenous infusion of normal saline. Treatment can be continued once blood pressure has been stabilised.
Hyperkalaemia: Concomitant use with potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics, salt substitutes containing potassium, or other medicinal products that may increase potassium levels (heparin, etc.) should be undertaken with caution and with frequent monitoring of potassium levels.
Renal artery stenosis: Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) should be used with caution to treat hypertension in patients with unilateral or bilateral renal artery stenosis or stenosis to a solitary kidney since blood urea and serum creatinine may increase in such patients.
Kidney transplantation: To date there is no experience of the safe use of Valsartan + Amlodipine (VALVEX A) in patients who have had a recent kidney transplantation.
Hepatic impairment: Valsartan is mostly eliminated unchanged via the bile. The half life of amlodipine is prolonged and AUC values are higher in patients with impaired liver function; dosage recommendations have not been established. Particular caution should be exercised when administering Valsartan + Amlodipine (VALVEX A) to patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment or biliary obstructive disorders.
In patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment without cholestasis, the maximum recommended dose is 80 mg valsartan.
Renal impairment: No dosage adjustment of Valsartan + Amlodipine(VALVEX A) is required for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment (GFR >30 ml/min/1.73 m2). Monitoring of potassium levels and creatinine is advised in moderate renal impairment.
Primary hyperaldosteronism: Patients with primary hyperaldosteronism should not be treated with the angiotensin II antagonist valsartan as their renin-angiotensin system is affected by the primary disease.
Angioedema: Angioedema, including swelling of the larynx and glottis, causing airway obstruction and/or swelling of the face, lips, pharynx and/or tongue, has been reported in patients treated with valsartan. Some of these patients previously experienced angioedema with other medicinal products, including angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. Valsartan + Amlodipine (VALVEX A) should be discontinued immediately in patients who develop angioedema and should not be re-administered.
Heart failure/post-myocardial infarction: As a consequence of the inhibition of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, changes in renal function may be anticipated in susceptible individuals. In patients with severe heart failure whose renal function may depend on the activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, treatment with ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor antagonists has been associated with oliguria and/or progressive azotaemia and (rarely) with acute renal failure and/or death. Similar outcomes have been reported with valsartan. Evaluation of patients with heart failure or post-myocardial infarction should always include assessment of renal function.
In a long-term, placebo-controlled study (PRAISE-2) of amlodipine in patients with NYHA (New York Heart Association Classification) III and IV heart failure of non-ischaemic aetiology, amlodipine was associated with increased reports of pulmonary oedema despite no significant difference in the incidence of worsening heart failure as compared to placebo. Calcium channel blockers, including amlodipine, should be used with caution in patients with congestive heart failure, as they may increase the risk of future cardiovascular events and mortality.
Aortic and mitral valve stenosis: As with all other vasodilators, special caution is indicated in patients suffering from mitral stenosis or significant aortic stenosis that is not high grade.
Valsartan + Amlodipine (VALVEX A) has not been studied in any patient population other than hypertension.
Sodium- and/or volume-depleted patients: Excessive hypotension was seen in 0.4% of patients with uncomplicated hypertension treated with Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) in placebo-controlled studies. In patients with an activated renin-angiotensin system (such as volume- and/or salt-depleted patients receiving high doses of diuretics) who are receiving angiotensin receptor blockers, symptomatic hypotension may occur. Correction of this condition prior to administration of Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) or close medical supervision at the start of treatment is recommended.
If hypotension occurs with Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A), the patient should be placed in the supine position and, if necessary, given an intravenous infusion of normal saline. Treatment can be continued once blood pressure has been stabilised.
Hyperkalaemia: Concomitant use with potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics, salt substitutes containing potassium, or other medicinal products that may increase potassium levels (heparin, etc.) should be undertaken with caution and with frequent monitoring of potassium levels.
Renal artery stenosis: Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) should be used with caution to treat hypertension in patients with unilateral or bilateral renal artery stenosis or stenosis to a solitary kidney since blood urea and serum creatinine may increase in such patients.
Kidney transplantation: To date there is no experience of the safe use of Valsartan + Amlodipine (VALVEX A) in patients who have had a recent kidney transplantation.
Hepatic impairment: Valsartan is mostly eliminated unchanged via the bile. The half life of amlodipine is prolonged and AUC values are higher in patients with impaired liver function; dosage recommendations have not been established. Particular caution should be exercised when administering Valsartan + Amlodipine (VALVEX A) to patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment or biliary obstructive disorders.
In patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment without cholestasis, the maximum recommended dose is 80 mg valsartan.
Renal impairment: No dosage adjustment of Valsartan + Amlodipine(VALVEX A) is required for patients with mild to moderate renal impairment (GFR >30 ml/min/1.73 m2). Monitoring of potassium levels and creatinine is advised in moderate renal impairment.
Primary hyperaldosteronism: Patients with primary hyperaldosteronism should not be treated with the angiotensin II antagonist valsartan as their renin-angiotensin system is affected by the primary disease.
Angioedema: Angioedema, including swelling of the larynx and glottis, causing airway obstruction and/or swelling of the face, lips, pharynx and/or tongue, has been reported in patients treated with valsartan. Some of these patients previously experienced angioedema with other medicinal products, including angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors. Valsartan + Amlodipine (VALVEX A) should be discontinued immediately in patients who develop angioedema and should not be re-administered.
Heart failure/post-myocardial infarction: As a consequence of the inhibition of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, changes in renal function may be anticipated in susceptible individuals. In patients with severe heart failure whose renal function may depend on the activity of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system, treatment with ACE inhibitors and angiotensin receptor antagonists has been associated with oliguria and/or progressive azotaemia and (rarely) with acute renal failure and/or death. Similar outcomes have been reported with valsartan. Evaluation of patients with heart failure or post-myocardial infarction should always include assessment of renal function.
In a long-term, placebo-controlled study (PRAISE-2) of amlodipine in patients with NYHA (New York Heart Association Classification) III and IV heart failure of non-ischaemic aetiology, amlodipine was associated with increased reports of pulmonary oedema despite no significant difference in the incidence of worsening heart failure as compared to placebo. Calcium channel blockers, including amlodipine, should be used with caution in patients with congestive heart failure, as they may increase the risk of future cardiovascular events and mortality.
Aortic and mitral valve stenosis: As with all other vasodilators, special caution is indicated in patients suffering from mitral stenosis or significant aortic stenosis that is not high grade.
Valsartan + Amlodipine (VALVEX A) has not been studied in any patient population other than hypertension.
Special Precautions
Hypertensive crisis. Na &/or vol-depleted patients; hyperkalemia; renal artery stenosis; kidney transplantation; primary aldosteronism; angioedema; heart failure/post MI; aortic & mitral valve stenosis. Pregnancy. Childn <18 yr. Elderly ≥65 yr.
Use In Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Angiotensin II Receptor Antagonists (AIIRAs) should not be initiated during pregnancy. Unless continued AIIRA therapy is considered essential, patients planning pregnancy should be changed to alternative antihypertensive treatments which have an established safety profile for use in pregnancy. When pregnancy is diagnosed, treatment with AIIRAs should be stopped immediately, and, if appropriate, alternative therapy should be started.
Adverse Reactions
Adverse reactions have been ranked under headings of frequency using the following convention: very common (≥1/10); common (≥1/100 to <1/10); uncommon (≥1/1,000 to <1/100); rare (≥1/10,000 to <1/1,000); very rare (<1/10,000); not known (cannot be estimated from the available data). (See Table 1a and 1b).
Additional information on the combination: Peripheral oedema, a recognised side effect of amlodipine, was generally observed at a lower incidence in patients who received the amlodipine/valsartan combination than in those who received amlodipine alone. In double-blind, controlled clinical trials, the incidence of peripheral oedema by dose was as follows: (See Table 2).
The mean incidence of peripheral oedema evenly weighted across all doses was 5.1% with the amlodipine/valsartan combination.
Additional information on the individual components: Adverse reactions previously reported with one of the individual components (amlodipine or valsartan) may be potential adverse reactions with Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) as well, even if not observed in clinical trials or during the post-marketing period.
Amlodipine: Common: Somnolence, dizziness, palpitations, abdominal pain, nausea, ankle swelling.
Uncommon: Insomnia, mood changes (including anxiety), depression, tremor, dysgeusia, syncope, hypoesthesia, visual disturbance (including diplopia), tinnitus, hypotension, dyspnoea, rhinitis, vomiting, dyspepsia, alopecia, purpura, skin discolouration, hyperhidrosis, pruritus, exanthema, myalgia, muscle cramps, pain, micturition disorder, increased urinary frequency, impotence, gynaecomastia, chest pain, malaise, weight increase, weight decrease.
Rare: Confusion.
Very rare: Leukocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, allergic reactions, hyperglycaemia, hypertonia, peripheral neuropathy, myocardial infarction, arrhythmia (including bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation), vasculitis, pancreatitis, gastritis, gingival hyperplasia, hepatitis, jaundice, hepatic enzymes increased*, angioedema, erythema multiforme, urticaria, exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, Quincke oedema, photosensitivity.
*mostly consistent with cholestasis. Exceptional cases of extrapyramidal syndrome have been reported.
Valsartan: Not known: Decrease in haemoglobin, decrease in haematocrit, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, increase of serum potassium, elevation of liver function values including increase of serum bilirubin, renal failure and impairment, elevation of serum creatinine, angioedema, myalgia, vasculitis, hypersensitivity including serum sickness.
Additional information on the combination: Peripheral oedema, a recognised side effect of amlodipine, was generally observed at a lower incidence in patients who received the amlodipine/valsartan combination than in those who received amlodipine alone. In double-blind, controlled clinical trials, the incidence of peripheral oedema by dose was as follows: (See Table 2).
The mean incidence of peripheral oedema evenly weighted across all doses was 5.1% with the amlodipine/valsartan combination.
Additional information on the individual components: Adverse reactions previously reported with one of the individual components (amlodipine or valsartan) may be potential adverse reactions with Valsartan+Amlodipine (VALVEX A) as well, even if not observed in clinical trials or during the post-marketing period.
Amlodipine: Common: Somnolence, dizziness, palpitations, abdominal pain, nausea, ankle swelling.
Uncommon: Insomnia, mood changes (including anxiety), depression, tremor, dysgeusia, syncope, hypoesthesia, visual disturbance (including diplopia), tinnitus, hypotension, dyspnoea, rhinitis, vomiting, dyspepsia, alopecia, purpura, skin discolouration, hyperhidrosis, pruritus, exanthema, myalgia, muscle cramps, pain, micturition disorder, increased urinary frequency, impotence, gynaecomastia, chest pain, malaise, weight increase, weight decrease.
Rare: Confusion.
Very rare: Leukocytopenia, thrombocytopenia, allergic reactions, hyperglycaemia, hypertonia, peripheral neuropathy, myocardial infarction, arrhythmia (including bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia and atrial fibrillation), vasculitis, pancreatitis, gastritis, gingival hyperplasia, hepatitis, jaundice, hepatic enzymes increased*, angioedema, erythema multiforme, urticaria, exfoliative dermatitis, Stevens-Johnson syndrome, Quincke oedema, photosensitivity.
*mostly consistent with cholestasis. Exceptional cases of extrapyramidal syndrome have been reported.
Valsartan: Not known: Decrease in haemoglobin, decrease in haematocrit, neutropenia, thrombocytopenia, increase of serum potassium, elevation of liver function values including increase of serum bilirubin, renal failure and impairment, elevation of serum creatinine, angioedema, myalgia, vasculitis, hypersensitivity including serum sickness.
Drug Interactions
Interactions common to the combination: No drug-drug interaction studies have been performed with Valsartan + Amlodipine (VALVEX A) and other medicinal products.
To be taken into account with concomitant use: Other antihypertensive agents: Commonly used antihypertensive agents (e.g. alpha blockers, diuretics) and other medicinal products which may cause hypotensive adverse effects (e.g. tricyclic antidepressants, alpha blockers for treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia) may increase the antihypertensive effect of the combination.
Interactions linked to amlodipine: Concomitant use not recommended: Grapefruit or grapefruit juice: Administration of amlodipine with grapefruit or grapefruit juice is not recommended as bioavailability may be increased in some patients, resulting in increased blood pressure lowering effects.
Caution required with concomitant use: CYP3A4 inhibitors: Concomitant use of amlodipine with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (protease inhibitors, azole antifungals, macrolides like erythromycin or clarithromycin, verapamil or diltiazem) may give rise to significant increase in amlodipine exposure. The clinical translation of these pharmacokinetic variations may be more pronounced in the elderly. Clinical monitoring and dose adjustment may thus be required.
CYP3A4 inducers (anticonvulsant agents [e.g. carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, fosphenytoin, primidone], rifampicin, Hypericum perforatum): There is no data available regarding the effect of CYP3A4 inducers on amlodipine.
The concomitant use of CYP3A4 inducers (e.g. rifampicin, Hypericum perforatum) may give a lower plasma concentration of amlodipine.
Amlodipine should be used with caution together with CYP3A4 inducers.
Simvastatin: Co-administration of multiple doses of 10 mg amlodipine with 80 mg simvastatin resulted in a 77% increase in exposure to simvastatin compared to simvastatin alone. It is recommended to limit the dose of simvastatin to 20 mg daily in patients on amlodipine.
Dantrolene (infusion): In animals, lethal ventricular fibrillation and cardiovascular collapse are observed in association with hyperkalaemia after administration of verapamil and intravenous dantrolene. Due to risk of hyperkalaemia, it is recommended that the co-administration of calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine be avoided in patients susceptible to malignant hyperthermia and in the management of malignant hyperthermia.
To be taken into account with concomitant use: Others: In clinical interaction studies, amlodipine did not affect the pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin, digoxin, warfarin or ciclosporin.
Interactions linked to valsartan: Concomitant use not recommended: Lithium: Reversible increases in serum lithium concentrations and toxicity have been reported during concurrent use of ACE inhibitors. Despite the lack of experience with concomitant use of valsartan and lithium, this combination is not recommended.
If the combination proves necessary, careful monitoring of serum lithium levels is recommended.
Potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium and other substances that may increase potassium levels. If a medicinal product that affects potassium levels is to be prescribed in combination with valsartan, monitoring of potassium plasma levels is advised.
Caution required with concomitant use: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), including selective COX-2 inhibitors, acetylsalicylic acid (>3 g/day), and non-selective NSAIDs: When angiotensin II antagonists are administered simultaneously with NSAIDs attenuation of the antihypertensive effect may occur. Furthermore, concomitant use of angiotensin II antagonists and NSAIDs may lead to an increased risk of worsening of renal function and an increase in serum potassium. Therefore, monitoring of renal function at the beginning of the treatment is recommended, as well as adequate hydration of the patient.
Inhibitors of the uptake transporter (rifampicin, ciclosporin) or efflux transporter (ritonavir): The results of an in vitro study with human liver tissue indicate that valsartan is a substrate of the hepatic uptake transporter OATP1B1 and of the hepatic efflux transporter MRP2. Co-administration of inhibitors of the uptake transporter (rifampicin, ciclosporin) or efflux transporter (ritonavir) may increase the systemic exposure to valsartan.
Others: In monotherapy with valsartan, no interactions of clinical significance have been found with the following substances: cimetidine, warfarin, furosemide, digoxin, atenolol, indometacin, hydrochlorothiazide, amlodipine, glibenclamide.
To be taken into account with concomitant use: Other antihypertensive agents: Commonly used antihypertensive agents (e.g. alpha blockers, diuretics) and other medicinal products which may cause hypotensive adverse effects (e.g. tricyclic antidepressants, alpha blockers for treatment of benign prostate hyperplasia) may increase the antihypertensive effect of the combination.
Interactions linked to amlodipine: Concomitant use not recommended: Grapefruit or grapefruit juice: Administration of amlodipine with grapefruit or grapefruit juice is not recommended as bioavailability may be increased in some patients, resulting in increased blood pressure lowering effects.
Caution required with concomitant use: CYP3A4 inhibitors: Concomitant use of amlodipine with strong or moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors (protease inhibitors, azole antifungals, macrolides like erythromycin or clarithromycin, verapamil or diltiazem) may give rise to significant increase in amlodipine exposure. The clinical translation of these pharmacokinetic variations may be more pronounced in the elderly. Clinical monitoring and dose adjustment may thus be required.
CYP3A4 inducers (anticonvulsant agents [e.g. carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin, fosphenytoin, primidone], rifampicin, Hypericum perforatum): There is no data available regarding the effect of CYP3A4 inducers on amlodipine.
The concomitant use of CYP3A4 inducers (e.g. rifampicin, Hypericum perforatum) may give a lower plasma concentration of amlodipine.
Amlodipine should be used with caution together with CYP3A4 inducers.
Simvastatin: Co-administration of multiple doses of 10 mg amlodipine with 80 mg simvastatin resulted in a 77% increase in exposure to simvastatin compared to simvastatin alone. It is recommended to limit the dose of simvastatin to 20 mg daily in patients on amlodipine.
Dantrolene (infusion): In animals, lethal ventricular fibrillation and cardiovascular collapse are observed in association with hyperkalaemia after administration of verapamil and intravenous dantrolene. Due to risk of hyperkalaemia, it is recommended that the co-administration of calcium channel blockers such as amlodipine be avoided in patients susceptible to malignant hyperthermia and in the management of malignant hyperthermia.
To be taken into account with concomitant use: Others: In clinical interaction studies, amlodipine did not affect the pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin, digoxin, warfarin or ciclosporin.
Interactions linked to valsartan: Concomitant use not recommended: Lithium: Reversible increases in serum lithium concentrations and toxicity have been reported during concurrent use of ACE inhibitors. Despite the lack of experience with concomitant use of valsartan and lithium, this combination is not recommended.
If the combination proves necessary, careful monitoring of serum lithium levels is recommended.
Potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium and other substances that may increase potassium levels. If a medicinal product that affects potassium levels is to be prescribed in combination with valsartan, monitoring of potassium plasma levels is advised.
Caution required with concomitant use: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), including selective COX-2 inhibitors, acetylsalicylic acid (>3 g/day), and non-selective NSAIDs: When angiotensin II antagonists are administered simultaneously with NSAIDs attenuation of the antihypertensive effect may occur. Furthermore, concomitant use of angiotensin II antagonists and NSAIDs may lead to an increased risk of worsening of renal function and an increase in serum potassium. Therefore, monitoring of renal function at the beginning of the treatment is recommended, as well as adequate hydration of the patient.
Inhibitors of the uptake transporter (rifampicin, ciclosporin) or efflux transporter (ritonavir): The results of an in vitro study with human liver tissue indicate that valsartan is a substrate of the hepatic uptake transporter OATP1B1 and of the hepatic efflux transporter MRP2. Co-administration of inhibitors of the uptake transporter (rifampicin, ciclosporin) or efflux transporter (ritonavir) may increase the systemic exposure to valsartan.
Others: In monotherapy with valsartan, no interactions of clinical significance have been found with the following substances: cimetidine, warfarin, furosemide, digoxin, atenolol, indometacin, hydrochlorothiazide, amlodipine, glibenclamide.
Storage
Store at temperatures not exceeding 30ºC. Protect from light.
Shelf-Life: 3 years from the date of manufacturing.
Shelf-Life: 3 years from the date of manufacturing.
Action
Pharmacological Classification: Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker/Calcium Channel Blocker.
Pharmacology: Valsartan & Amlodipine tablet combines two antihypertensive compounds with complementary mechanisms to control blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension: amlodipine belongs to the calcium antagonist class and valsartan to the angiotensin II antagonist class of medicines. The combination of these substances has an additive antihypertensive effect, reducing blood pressure to a greater degree than either component alone.
Amlodipine/Valsartan: The combination of amlodipine and valsartan produces dose-related additive reduction in blood pressure across its therapeutic dose range. The antihypertensive effect of a single dose of the combination persisted for 24 hours.
Amlodipine: The amlodipine component of Valsartan & Amlodipine tablet inhibits the transmembrane entry of calcium ions into cardiac and vascular smooth muscle. The mechanism of the antihypertensive action of amlodipine is due to a direct relaxant effect on vascular smooth muscle, causing reductions in peripheral vascular resistance and in blood pressure. Experimental data suggest that amlodipine binds to both dihydropyridine and non-dihydropyridine binding sites. The contractile processes of cardiac muscle and vascular smooth muscle are dependent upon the movement of extracellular calcium ions into these cells through specific ion channels.
Following administration of therapeutic doses to patients with hypertension, amlodipine produces vasodilation, resulting in a reduction of supine and standing blood pressures. These decreases in blood pressure are not accompanied by a significant change in heart rate or plasma catecholamine levels with chronic dosing.
Plasma concentrations correlate with effect in both young and elderly patients.
In hypertensive patients with normal renal function, therapeutic doses of amlodipine resulted in a decrease in renal vascular resistance and an increase in glomerular filtration rate and effective renal plasma flow, without change in filtration fraction or proteinuria.
As with other calcium channel blockers, haemodynamic measurements of cardiac function at rest and during exercise (or pacing) in patients with normal ventricular function treated with amlodipine have generally demonstrated a small increase in cardiac index without significant influence on dP/dt or on left ventricular end diastolic pressure or volume. In haemodynamic studies, amlodipine has not been associated with a negative inotropic effect when administered in the therapeutic dose range to intact animals and humans, even when co-administered with beta blockers to humans.
Amlodipine does not change sinoatrial nodal function or atrioventricular conduction in intact animals or humans. In clinical studies in which amlodipine was administered in combination with beta blockers to patients with either hypertension or angina, no adverse effects on electrocardiographic parameters were observed.
Use in patients with hypertension: A randomised double-blind morbidity-mortality study called the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering treatment to prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT) was performed to compare newer therapies: amlodipine 2.5-10 mg/day (calcium channel blocker) or lisinopril 10-40 mg/day (ACE-inhibitor) as first-line therapies to that of the thiazide-diuretic, chlorthalidone 12.5-25 mg/day in mild to moderate hypertension.
A total of 33,357 hypertensive patients aged 55 or older were randomised and followed for a mean of 4.9 years. The patients had at least one additional coronary heart disease risk factor, including: previous myocardial infarction or stroke (>6 months prior to enrollment) or documentation of other atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (overall 51.5%), type 2 diabetes (36.1%), high density lipoprotein - cholesterol <35 mg/dl or <0.906 mmol/l (11.6%), left ventricular hypertrophy diagnosed by electrocardiogram or echocardiography (20.9%), current cigarette smoking (21.9%).
The primary endpoint was a composite of fatal coronary heart disease or non-fatal myocardial infarction. There was no significant difference in the primary endpoint between amlodipine-based therapy and chlorthalidone-based therapy: risk ratio (RR) 0.98 95% CI (0.90-1.07) p=0.65. Among secondary endpoints, the incidence of heart failure (component of a composite combined cardiovascular endpoint) was significantly higher in the amlodipine group as compared to the chlorthalidone group (10.2% versus 7.7%, RR 1.38, 95% CI [1.25-1.52] p<0.001). However, there was no significant difference in all-cause mortality between amlodipine-based therapy and chlorthalidone-based therapy RR 0.96 95% CI [0.89-1.02] p=0.20.
Valsartan: Valsartan is an orally active, potent and specific angiotensin II receptor antagonist. It acts selectively on the receptor subtype AT1 which is responsible for the known actions of angiotensin II. The increased plasma levels of angiotensin II following AT 1receptor blockade with valsartan may stimulate the unblocked receptor subtype AT2, which appears to counterbalance the effect of the AT1 receptor.
Valsartan does not exhibit any partial agonist activity at the AT1 receptor and has much (about 20,000-fold) greater affinity for the A1 T receptor than for the AT2 receptor. Valsartan does not inhibit ACE, also known as kininase II, which converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II and degrades bradykinin. Since there is no effect on ACE and no potentiation of bradykinin or substance P, angiotensin II antagonists are unlikely to be associated with coughing. In clinical trials where valsartan was compared with an ACE inhibitor, the incidence of dry cough was significantly (p <0.05) lower in patients treated with valsartan than in those treated with an ACE inhibitor (2.6% versus 7.9%, respectively). In a clinical trial of patients with a history of dry cough during ACE inhibitor therapy, 19.5% of trial subjects receiving valsartan and 19.0% of those receiving a thiazide diuretic experienced coughing, compared to 68.5% of those treated with an ACE inhibitor (p <0.05). Valsartan does not bind to or block other hormone receptors or ion channels known to be important in cardiovascular regulation.
Administration of valsartan to patients with hypertension results in a drop in blood pressure without affecting pulse rate.
In most patients, after administration of a single oral dose, onset of antihypertensive activity occurs within 2 hours, and the peak drop in blood pressure is achieved within 4-6 hours. The antihypertensive effect persists over 24 hours after administration. During repeated administration, the maximum reduction in blood pressure with any dose is generally attained within 2-4 weeks and is sustained during long-term therapy. Abrupt withdrawal of valsartan has not been associated with rebound hypertension or other adverse clinical events.
Pharmacology: Valsartan & Amlodipine tablet combines two antihypertensive compounds with complementary mechanisms to control blood pressure in patients with essential hypertension: amlodipine belongs to the calcium antagonist class and valsartan to the angiotensin II antagonist class of medicines. The combination of these substances has an additive antihypertensive effect, reducing blood pressure to a greater degree than either component alone.
Amlodipine/Valsartan: The combination of amlodipine and valsartan produces dose-related additive reduction in blood pressure across its therapeutic dose range. The antihypertensive effect of a single dose of the combination persisted for 24 hours.
Amlodipine: The amlodipine component of Valsartan & Amlodipine tablet inhibits the transmembrane entry of calcium ions into cardiac and vascular smooth muscle. The mechanism of the antihypertensive action of amlodipine is due to a direct relaxant effect on vascular smooth muscle, causing reductions in peripheral vascular resistance and in blood pressure. Experimental data suggest that amlodipine binds to both dihydropyridine and non-dihydropyridine binding sites. The contractile processes of cardiac muscle and vascular smooth muscle are dependent upon the movement of extracellular calcium ions into these cells through specific ion channels.
Following administration of therapeutic doses to patients with hypertension, amlodipine produces vasodilation, resulting in a reduction of supine and standing blood pressures. These decreases in blood pressure are not accompanied by a significant change in heart rate or plasma catecholamine levels with chronic dosing.
Plasma concentrations correlate with effect in both young and elderly patients.
In hypertensive patients with normal renal function, therapeutic doses of amlodipine resulted in a decrease in renal vascular resistance and an increase in glomerular filtration rate and effective renal plasma flow, without change in filtration fraction or proteinuria.
As with other calcium channel blockers, haemodynamic measurements of cardiac function at rest and during exercise (or pacing) in patients with normal ventricular function treated with amlodipine have generally demonstrated a small increase in cardiac index without significant influence on dP/dt or on left ventricular end diastolic pressure or volume. In haemodynamic studies, amlodipine has not been associated with a negative inotropic effect when administered in the therapeutic dose range to intact animals and humans, even when co-administered with beta blockers to humans.
Amlodipine does not change sinoatrial nodal function or atrioventricular conduction in intact animals or humans. In clinical studies in which amlodipine was administered in combination with beta blockers to patients with either hypertension or angina, no adverse effects on electrocardiographic parameters were observed.
Use in patients with hypertension: A randomised double-blind morbidity-mortality study called the Antihypertensive and Lipid-Lowering treatment to prevent Heart Attack Trial (ALLHAT) was performed to compare newer therapies: amlodipine 2.5-10 mg/day (calcium channel blocker) or lisinopril 10-40 mg/day (ACE-inhibitor) as first-line therapies to that of the thiazide-diuretic, chlorthalidone 12.5-25 mg/day in mild to moderate hypertension.
A total of 33,357 hypertensive patients aged 55 or older were randomised and followed for a mean of 4.9 years. The patients had at least one additional coronary heart disease risk factor, including: previous myocardial infarction or stroke (>6 months prior to enrollment) or documentation of other atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (overall 51.5%), type 2 diabetes (36.1%), high density lipoprotein - cholesterol <35 mg/dl or <0.906 mmol/l (11.6%), left ventricular hypertrophy diagnosed by electrocardiogram or echocardiography (20.9%), current cigarette smoking (21.9%).
The primary endpoint was a composite of fatal coronary heart disease or non-fatal myocardial infarction. There was no significant difference in the primary endpoint between amlodipine-based therapy and chlorthalidone-based therapy: risk ratio (RR) 0.98 95% CI (0.90-1.07) p=0.65. Among secondary endpoints, the incidence of heart failure (component of a composite combined cardiovascular endpoint) was significantly higher in the amlodipine group as compared to the chlorthalidone group (10.2% versus 7.7%, RR 1.38, 95% CI [1.25-1.52] p<0.001). However, there was no significant difference in all-cause mortality between amlodipine-based therapy and chlorthalidone-based therapy RR 0.96 95% CI [0.89-1.02] p=0.20.
Valsartan: Valsartan is an orally active, potent and specific angiotensin II receptor antagonist. It acts selectively on the receptor subtype AT1 which is responsible for the known actions of angiotensin II. The increased plasma levels of angiotensin II following AT 1receptor blockade with valsartan may stimulate the unblocked receptor subtype AT2, which appears to counterbalance the effect of the AT1 receptor.
Valsartan does not exhibit any partial agonist activity at the AT1 receptor and has much (about 20,000-fold) greater affinity for the A1 T receptor than for the AT2 receptor. Valsartan does not inhibit ACE, also known as kininase II, which converts angiotensin I to angiotensin II and degrades bradykinin. Since there is no effect on ACE and no potentiation of bradykinin or substance P, angiotensin II antagonists are unlikely to be associated with coughing. In clinical trials where valsartan was compared with an ACE inhibitor, the incidence of dry cough was significantly (p <0.05) lower in patients treated with valsartan than in those treated with an ACE inhibitor (2.6% versus 7.9%, respectively). In a clinical trial of patients with a history of dry cough during ACE inhibitor therapy, 19.5% of trial subjects receiving valsartan and 19.0% of those receiving a thiazide diuretic experienced coughing, compared to 68.5% of those treated with an ACE inhibitor (p <0.05). Valsartan does not bind to or block other hormone receptors or ion channels known to be important in cardiovascular regulation.
Administration of valsartan to patients with hypertension results in a drop in blood pressure without affecting pulse rate.
In most patients, after administration of a single oral dose, onset of antihypertensive activity occurs within 2 hours, and the peak drop in blood pressure is achieved within 4-6 hours. The antihypertensive effect persists over 24 hours after administration. During repeated administration, the maximum reduction in blood pressure with any dose is generally attained within 2-4 weeks and is sustained during long-term therapy. Abrupt withdrawal of valsartan has not been associated with rebound hypertension or other adverse clinical events.
MedsGo Class
Angiotensin II Antagonists / Calcium Antagonists
Features
Brand
Valvex-A 80/5
Full Details
Dosage Strength
80 mg / 5 mg
Drug Ingredients
- Amlodipine
- Valsartan
Drug Packaging
Film-Coated Tablet 1's
Generic Name
Valsartan / Amlodipine Besilate
Dosage Form
Film-Coated Tablet
Registration Number
DR-XY43972
Drug Classification
Prescription Drug (RX)