Valsartan is a commonly prescribed medication used to treat high blood pressure and heart failure. It belongs to a class of drugs called angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), which work by relaxing blood vessels and making it easier for the heart to pump blood. For millions of patients, Valsartan has played a crucial role in managing cardiovascular health and preventing stroke or heart attacks.
But in recent years, Valsartan has been under intense scrutiny—not just for its benefits but for its potentially dangerous side effects and contamination issues that have led to major recalls, lawsuits, and growing concern in the medical community.
The serious side effects of using Valsartan range from kidney problems and elevated potassium levels to rare but alarming links to cancer due to contamination with substances like NDMA (N-Nitrosodimethylamine). These risks have left many patients questioning whether to start or continue the medication, especially when safer alternatives may be available.
So what exactly should patients know before using this drug—or continuing it? Let’s break it down.
How Valsartan Works
At its core, Valsartan blocks the effects of a hormone called angiotensin II. This hormone normally causes blood vessels to tighten, which raises blood pressure. By blocking it, Valsartan helps lower blood pressure, ease the strain on the heart, and improve blood flow.
It’s prescribed for:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Heart failure
- Post-heart attack treatment
It’s generally taken once or twice a day, with or without food, and may be used alone or in combination with other medications.
Common Side Effects
Like many prescription drugs, Valsartan comes with a range of potential side effects. Most are mild and manageable, but they still warrant attention.
Common side effects include:
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Diarrhea
- Elevated potassium levels (which can affect heart rhythm)
These symptoms are often temporary, especially when the body is adjusting to the medication. But if they persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a doctor promptly.
More Concerning Health Risks
Beyond the common side effects, more serious complications have been reported—especially in light of recent findings related to contaminated Valsartan batches. In 2018, several manufacturers recalled Valsartan after it was discovered that certain batches were contaminated with N-nitrosodimethylamine (NDMA), a probable human carcinogen.
NDMA is a chemical compound known to increase the risk of cancer in humans based on animal testing and long-term exposure data. Since the recall, numerous legal claims have been filed by individuals who developed cancer after long-term use of the contaminated drug. These lawsuits have raised awareness of the serious side effects of using Valsartan, which include:
- Increased risk of liver damage
- Kidney problems or failure
- Gastrointestinal issues
- A higher chance of developing certain cancers, particularly liver, kidney, stomach, and colon cancers
It’s important to note that these risks are primarily linked to contaminated Valsartan products—not all versions of the drug. Still, the concern has prompted regulatory action, clinical reviews, and a re-evaluation of safety standards across pharmaceutical manufacturing.
What Patients Should Do
If you’re currently taking Valsartan, don’t stop without consulting your healthcare provider. Abruptly stopping blood pressure medication can have serious consequences.
Instead:
- Check the manufacturer information on your prescription bottle.
- Speak with your pharmacist or doctor to confirm whether your medication was part of any recalled batches.
- Report any unusual symptoms—especially digestive issues, fatigue, or unexplained weight loss.
If you’ve been using Valsartan long-term and are experiencing health problems, you may also want to explore your legal options. In some cases, compensation may be available for those affected by contaminated products.
Final Thoughts
Valsartan remains a valuable medication for many, but like all drugs, it comes with risks. Understanding both the benefits and potential side effects—especially in light of the contamination recalls—is crucial for making informed healthcare decisions.
If you believe you’ve suffered adverse effects after taking Valsartan, especially from a recalled batch, don’t hesitate to seek both medical and legal guidance. Your health—and your peace of mind—deserve nothing less.
