Drug Interaction Report

Talk to your doctor before using valsartan together with ibuprofen. Combining these medications may reduce the effects of valsartan in lowering blood pressure. In addition, these medications may affect your kidney function, especially when they are used together frequently or chronically. You are more likely to develop impaired kidney function during treatment with these medications if you are also using a diuretic ("water pill") or if you are elderly or have preexisting kidney disease. You may need a dose adjustment or more frequent monitoring by your doctor to safely use both medications. Contact your doctor if you experience signs and symptoms that may suggest kidney damage such as nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, increased or decreased urination, sudden weight gain or weight loss, fluid retention, swelling, shortness of breath, muscle cramps, tiredness, weakness, dizziness, confusion, and irregular heart rhythm. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.

If you are taking valsartan you should avoid potassium-containing salt substitutes or over-the-counter potassium supplements without first talking to your doctor. This can cause high levels of potassium in your blood. High levels of potassium can cause weakness, irregular heartbeat, confusion, tingling of the extremities, or feelings of heaviness in the legs. Call your doctor at once if you have any of these symptoms.

Ask your doctor before using ibuprofen together with ethanol (alcohol). Do not drink alcohol while taking ibuprofen. Alcohol can increase your risk of stomach bleeding caused by ibuprofen. Call your doctor at once if you have symptoms of bleeding in your stomach or intestines. This includes black, bloody, or tarry stools, or coughing up blood or vomit that looks like coffee grounds. It is important to tell your doctor about all other medications you use, including vitamins and herbs. Do not stop using any medications without first talking to your doctor.