HealthCareMagic is now Ask A Doctor - 24x7 | https://www.askadoctor24x7.com

question-icon

Does Valsartan Cause Edema And Tiredness?

default
Posted on Mon, 19 Dec 2016
Question: I have been taking amlodipine/Valsartan for about 5 yrs - and I want to change because of tiredness and ssome swelling of my feet and lower ankles. My primary care md has suggested amlodipine besylate 10mg. my cardiologist has suggested 160mg valsartan twice a day, plus 1 verapmil er once a day - I was under the impression that the valsartan was the culprit in the edema and the tiredness. What do you think???
doctor
Answered by Dr. Dr. Meriton Siqeca (18 minutes later)
Brief Answer:
Amlodipine causes ankle oedemas

Detailed Answer:
Hi and thank you for your question. Welcome to HCM. I understand your concern.

Amlodipine is a well-know calcium channel blocker which may cause swelling in the ankle area - pedal oedemas. Actually, depending on the statistics from different studies, the probability of amlodipine having such side effect varies from 4 to 10%. Therefore, I would recommend you to withhold amlodipine.

The other alternatives described in your question are all effective anti-hypertensive drugs. Valsartan is safe and effective. Based on your age, I would recommend you the combination of valsartan with a small dosage of a diuretic such as hydrochlorthiazid 12.5 mg. In addition to this, verapamil also is a good and effective alternative which both lowers high blood pressure and decreases heart's workload.

I hope my insight was helpful to you. I am happy to help, should you have any follow-up questions.

Best regards,
Dr. Meriton
Note: For further queries related to coronary artery disease and prevention, click here.

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vaishalee Punj
doctor
Answered by
Dr.
Dr. Dr. Meriton Siqeca

Cardiologist

Practicing since :2009

Answered : 775 Questions

premium_optimized

The User accepted the expert's answer

Share on

Get personalised answers from verified doctor in minutes across 80+ specialties

159 Doctors Online

By proceeding, I accept the Terms and Conditions

HCM Blog Instant Access to Doctors
HCM Blog Questions Answered
HCM Blog Satisfaction
Does Valsartan Cause Edema And Tiredness?

Brief Answer: Amlodipine causes ankle oedemas Detailed Answer: Hi and thank you for your question. Welcome to HCM. I understand your concern. Amlodipine is a well-know calcium channel blocker which may cause swelling in the ankle area - pedal oedemas. Actually, depending on the statistics from different studies, the probability of amlodipine having such side effect varies from 4 to 10%. Therefore, I would recommend you to withhold amlodipine. The other alternatives described in your question are all effective anti-hypertensive drugs. Valsartan is safe and effective. Based on your age, I would recommend you the combination of valsartan with a small dosage of a diuretic such as hydrochlorthiazid 12.5 mg. In addition to this, verapamil also is a good and effective alternative which both lowers high blood pressure and decreases heart's workload. I hope my insight was helpful to you. I am happy to help, should you have any follow-up questions. Best regards, Dr. Meriton