Can long-term consumption of valsartan cause hyperkalemia?

Long-term consumption of valsartan may cause hyperkalemia. Valsartan belongs to angiotensin II receptor antagonist, which is suitable for patients with hypertension, especially for patients with hypertension accompanied by heart failure, myocardial infarction, diabetic nephropathy, and the common adverse reactions include dizziness, hypotension, hyperkalemia, and digestive symptoms such as diarrhea and abdominal pain. Valsartan exerts its blood pressure-lowering effect by inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system in the body. Long-term use of valsartan will cause a decrease in aldosterone secretion in the body. Aldosterone can promote the excretion of potassium ions, if aldosterone secretion is reduced, the excretion of potassium ions in the body will also be inhibited, so long-term use of valsartan has the risk of elevating blood potassium. Therefore, for renal insufficiency, long-term potassium supplementation and the joint use of spironolactone and other potassium-preserving drugs patients should be more vigilant to prevent the occurrence of high blood potassium. Warm tips:Long-term use of valsartan should be checked regularly for blood potassium concentration to avoid adverse reactions.