DRUG INTERACTIONS: This drug should not be used with the following medications because very serious interactions may occur: cisapride, dofetilide. If you are currently using any of these medications, tell your doctor or pharmacist before starting valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: amiloride, antidiabetic drugs (e.g., insulin, glipizide), cholestyramine, colestipol, corticosteroids (e.g., prednisone), diazoxide, digoxin, drugs which can increase dizziness (e.g., phenobarbital, narcotic analgesics), drugs which are affected by the acid level in the urine (e.g., amphetamine, methenamine, quinidine), lithium, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (e.g., ibuprofen, indomethacin), potassium supplements (e.g., potassium chloride) or salt substitutes, probenecid. Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products, diet aids) because they may contain ingredients that could increase your heart rate or blood pressure. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of those products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.

OVERDOSE: If overdose is suspected, contact your local poison control center or emergency room immediately. US residents can call the US national poison hotline at 1-800-222-1222. Canadian residents should call their local poison control center directly. Symptoms of overdose may include unusually fast or slow heartbeat, severe dizziness or fainting.

NOTES: Do not share this medication with others. Lifestyle changes such as stress reduction programs, exercise and dietary changes may increase the effectiveness of this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist about lifestyle changes that might benefit you. Laboratory and/or medical tests (e.g., kidney function, potassium blood level) should be performed periodically to monitor your progress or check for side effects. Consult your doctor for more details. Have your blood pressure checked regularly while taking this medication. Learn how to monitor your own blood pressure at home. Discuss this with your doctor.