Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet
Manufacturer
Novartis India Ltd
Salt Composition
Amlodipine (5mg) + Valsartan (80mg)
Key Information
Short Description
Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet is a combination of two medicines that helps to control high blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels and making it easier for your heart to pump blood around your body.
Dosage Form
Tablet
Introduction
Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet may be taken on an empty stomach or along with food. However, it is better to take it regularly at a fixed time each day as prescribed by your doctor. The dose will depend on your condition and how you respond to the medicine. It’s important to keep taking this medicine even if you feel well. By lowering your blood pressure, it is reducing your risk of heart attack or stroke so do not stop taking it unless your doctor tells you to. You can help this medication work better by making a few changes to your lifestyle such as keeping active, stopping smoking, and eating a low salt and low-fat diet.
Directions for Use
Take this medicine in the dose and duration as advised by your doctor. Swallow it as a whole. Do not chew, crush or break it. Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet may be taken with or without food but it is better to take it at a fixed time.
Safety Information
Side Effects
swelling in your ankles or feet (edema), headache, sleepiness, dizziness, tiredness, taste change, and upset stomach
Alcohol Warning
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet.
Breastfeeding Warning
Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet is probably safe to use during breastfeeding. Limited human data suggests that the drug does not represent any significant risk to the baby.
Pregnancy Warning
Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet is unsafe to use during pregnancy as there is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby. However, the doctor may rarely prescribe it in some life-threatening situations if the benefits are more than the potential risks. Please consult your doctor.
How it works
Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet is a combination of two medicines: Amlodipine and Valsartan which lowers blood pressure effectively. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker (CCB) and Valsartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). They work by relaxing the blood vessels and making the heart more efficient at pumping blood throughout the body.
Quick Tips
Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you. It may cause you to feel lightheaded or weak especially when you stand up. Rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down. Avoid consuming alcohol as it may enhance the blood pressure lowering effect of this medicine. It can cause ankle or foot swelling. Raise your legs while you are sitting down and talk to your doctor if it does not go away. Do not take Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet if you are pregnant, planning to conceive or breastfeeding.
Related Medicines
Frequently asked questions
How long does it take for Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet to start working?
You may notice a substantial decrease in blood pressure within two weeks of starting Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet. It may take up to four weeks to see its full effects. Please discuss any concerns you have about Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet with your doctor, but do not stop taking it without their guidance.
Which medicine is considered safe for treating high blood pressure?
Many blood pressure-lowering medicines can be considered safe for treatment. Your doctor will advise the most appropriate medication based on your individual needs, considering factors like age, gender, existing medical conditions, and more. Additionally, individuals might experience different responses to these medications. For example, patients below 55 years of age with no other significant health issues may be prescribed angiotensin II receptor antagonists (ARAs), such as Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet, losartan, or olmesartan, or Angiotensin Converting Enzyme (ACE) Inhibitors like ramipril, captopril, or enalapril. These are just some examples. Remember, your doctor is the best source of guidance for managing your blood pressure.
Is Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet bad for kidneys?
Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet generally does not negatively impact healthy kidneys. However, it may pose potential risks for individuals with pre-existing severe kidney impairment (creatinine clearance < 10 ml/min) or those undergoing dialysis. Therefore, Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet should be used cautiously and only after consultation with your doctor if you have concerns about its safety.
Who should not be given Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet?
Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet is not recommended for those who are allergic to it, have severe liver disease, diabetes, or impaired kidney function. Additionally, its use should be restricted if you are being treated with blood pressure-lowering medications containing Aliskiren. Moreover, Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet should not be used during pregnancy or if you are planning to become pregnant. Consult your doctor for any queries before using this medication.
Does Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet cause weight gain?
Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet does not directly cause weight gain as a side effect. However, if your kidney function deteriorates, water retention may occur, leading to swelling in the body and therefore possible unintentional weight gain. If you experience any unexplained weight changes, such as weight gain or swelling in your feet, ankles, or hands, inform your doctor immediately.
How long do I need to take Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet?
Continue taking Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking it even if you feel better, as this may be crucial for managing your blood pressure. While Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet does not cure high blood pressure or heart failure, it helps to control them long-term. Always follow your doctor's guidance regarding your medication regimen.
What is the most important information I should know about Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet?
Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet during the last trimester of pregnancy can be harmful to the unborn baby. Therefore, do not use Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. Inform your doctor immediately if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while taking this medication. If you experience unintended pregnancy while on Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet, stop taking it and contact your doctor as soon as possible.
Can I switch in between the brands of Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet?
No, do not switch to a different Exforge 5 mg/80 mg Tablet product unless your doctor explicitly advises you to. Since it is taken daily, it's crucial to have stock on hand and use the correct medication prescribed by your healthcare provider. They can provide tailored advice based on your individual needs and ensure you are taking the right dosage for optimal results.
