Exforge

Overview

What is Exforge? 

Exforge is a medication commonly used to manage hypertension (high blood pressure). It comprises two primary active ingredients: valsartan, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, and amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker. 

Valsartan works by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a potent vasopressor that causes blood vessels to tighten and narrow. Amlodipine relaxes the blood vessel walls’ smooth muscles by blocking uptake of calcium, making it easier for the heart to pump blood and lowering blood pressure. 

Global Name

Generic name:  Valsartan and Amlodipine
Brand names: Exforge 

Usage

What is Exforge used for? 

Exforge is used for the treatment of primary (essential) hypertension. It is often prescribed when a single medication is not effective enough in controlling blood pressure. The conditions it helps manage include: 

• High blood pressure (hypertension) 

How do you use Exforge? 

Availability:

Exforge is available in the form of an oral tablet. 

Dosage information:

• The recommended starting dose is one tablet of Exforge 5/160 mg (amlodipine/valsartan) once daily. 
• Doses may be increased after 1-2 weeks of therapy to a maximum of amlodipine 10 mg/valsartan 320 mg once daily, based on individual patient response and tolerability. 

Suitability: 

• Children: The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established. 
• Adults: Indicated for adult patients with hypertension. 
• Elderlies: No overall differences in effectiveness or safety were observed between elderly and younger patients. 
• Pregnancy: Not recommended; when pregnancy is detected, discontinue Exforge as soon as possible. 
• Lactation: Not recommended; it is unknown if Exforge passes into breast milk.

Is there anyone who can’t take Exforge? 

• Children: Not recommended due to the lack of research in this age group. 

• Adults: Those with known hypersensitivity to any component. 
• Elderlies: Generally suitable for the elderly; however, dose adjustment may be necessary. 
• Pregnancy: Should be discontinued due to the potential for harm to the fetus. 
• Lactation: Not recommended as it is unknown if the components are excreted in human milk. 
• Allergies: 
  Patients with a history of angioedema related to previous treatment with an angiotensin II receptor blocker or angioedema of any other etiology should not take Exforge. 

Warnings and Precautions:

• May cause a drop in blood pressure, especially after the first dose. 
• Monitor for signs of angioedema and discontinue Exforge immediately if symptoms occur. 
• Use caution if you have a history of heart failure or hepatic impairment.

Drug Interactions: 

• Avoid using with aliskiren in patients with diabetes or renal impairment. 
• May interact with inhibitors of cytochrome P450 3A4 (such as ketoconazole) and CYP3A inducers. 
• Caution with concomitant use of simvastatin. 

Side Effects

Common side effects include swelling of the ankles or feet (edema), dizziness, flushing, and palpitations. Serious side effects are rare but may include severe allergic reactions and changes in kidney function. 

Pharmacist Tips

Storage information: 

• Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. 

Handling instructions: 

• Do not remove the tablets from the blister pack until you are ready to take them. 

Availability

Where is Exforge available in Hong Kong?

Exforge is a prescription medication that can be prescribed by healthcare providers.

FAQs

Can I stop taking Exforge if my blood pressure is normal? 

Do not stop taking Exforge without consulting your healthcare provider, even if your blood pressure readings are in the normal range. 

What should I do if I miss a dose of Exforge?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for the missed dose.

Can Exforge be taken with other blood pressure medications?

Exforge may be used in combination with other blood pressure-lowering medications, but only under the guidance of a healthcare provider.

Does Exforge cause weight gain?

Weight gain is not a common side effect of Exforge. If you experience significant weight gain, consult your healthcare provider.