Version July 2025
When pregnancy is detected, discontinue therapy as soon as possible. Drugs that act directly on the renin-angiotensin system can cause injury and death to the developing fetus.
Hypertension: Oral: Usual dosage range: Amlodipine 5 to 10 mg and valsartan 160 to 320 mg and hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 to 25 mg once daily; dose may be titrated after 2 weeks of therapy. Patients already taking one or more of these components may be switched to a combination product for individually titrated agents. Maximum recommended daily dose: Amlodipine 10 mg/valsartan 320 mg/hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg.
CrCl ≥30 mL/minute: No dosage adjustment necessary.
CrCl <30 mL/minute: No dosage adjustment provided in manufacturer’s labeling; safety and efficacy has not been established; hydrochlorothiazide is usually ineffective when CrCl <30 mL/minute and is contraindicated in patients who are anuric.
Mild to moderate impairment: Use with caution; amlodipine elimination prolonged and valsartan exposure doubled in patients with mild-to-moderate chronic disease compared to healthy volunteers. No dosage adjustment for valsartan is necessary; however, a lower initial amlodipine dose may be required (possibly requiring use of the individual agents).
Severe impairment: No dosage adjustment provided in manufacturer’s labeling; however, similar to patients with mild to moderate impairment, a lower initial amlodipine dose may be required (possibly requiring use of the individual agents); titrate slowly. Use with caution in patients with ascites due to cirrhosis (Ref).
Refer to adult dosing. Use of lower initial doses should be considered.
The following adverse drug reactions and incidences are derived from product labeling unless otherwise specified. Also see individual agents.
>10%: Renal: Increased blood urea nitrogen (30%)
1% to 10%:
Cardiovascular: Edema (7%), severe hypotension (≤2%)
Central nervous system: Dizziness (8%), headache (5%), fatigue (2%)
Endocrine & metabolic: Hypokalemia (10%)
Gastrointestinal: Dyspepsia (2%), nausea (2%)
Neuromuscular & skeletal: Back pain (2%), muscle spasm (2%)
Respiratory: Nasopharyngitis (2%)
<1%: Hyperkalemia, orthostatic dizziness
Hypersensitivity to amlodipine, hydrochlorothiazide, valsartan, sulfonamide-derived drugs, or any component of the formulation; concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes mellitus; anuria
Significant drug interactions exist, requiring dose/frequency adjustment or avoidance. Consult drug interactions database for more information.
Note: Although the FDA-approved product labeling states this medication is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to sulfonamide-containing drugs, the scientific basis of this cross-sensitivity has been challenged.
Concerns related to adverse effects:
• Angioedema: Angioedema has been reported rarely with some angiotensin II receptor antagonists (ARBs) and may occur at any time during treatment (especially following first dose). It may involve the head and neck (potentially compromising airway) or the intestine (presenting with abdominal pain). Patients with idiopathic or hereditary angioedema or previous angioedema associated with ACE-inhibitor therapy may be at an increased risk. Prolonged frequent monitoring may be required, especially if tongue, glottis, or larynx are involved, as they are associated with airway obstruction. Patients with a history of airway surgery may have a higher risk of airway obstruction. Discontinue therapy immediately if angioedema occurs. Aggressive early management is critical. Intramuscular (IM) administration of epinephrine may be necessary. Do not readminister to patients who have had angioedema with ARBs.
• Angina/MI: Increased angina and/or MI has occurred with initiation or dosage titration of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers. Reflex tachycardia may occur resulting in angina and/or MI in patients with obstructive coronary disease, especially in the absence of concurrent beta-blockade.
• Electrolyte disturbances: Hyperkalemia may occur with angiotensin II receptor antagonists; risk factors include renal dysfunction, diabetes mellitus, and concomitant use of potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, and/or potassium-containing salts. Use cautiously, if at all, with these agents and monitor potassium closely. Thiazide diuretics may cause hypokalemia, hypochloremic alkalosis, hypomagnesemia, and hyponatremia.
• Gout: In certain patients with a history of gout, a familial predisposition to gout, or chronic renal failure, gout can be precipitated by hydrochlorothiazide. This risk may be increased with doses ≥25 mg (Gurwitz 1997).
• Hypersensitivity reactions: Hypersensitivity reactions may occur with hydrochlorothiazide. Risk is increased in patients with a history of allergy or bronchial asthma.
• Hypotension: Symptomatic hypotension may occur upon initiation in patients who are salt- or volume-depleted (eg, those treated with high-dose diuretics); correct volume depletion prior to administration. This transient hypotensive response is not a contraindication to further treatment with amlodipine/valsartan/hydrochlorothiazide.
• Hypotension/syncope: Symptomatic hypotension with or without syncope can rarely occur; use caution during initiation, particularly in patients with heart failure, or in post-MI patients or those undergoing surgery or dialysis.
• Ocular effects: Hydrochlorothiazide may cause acute transient myopia and acute angle-closure glaucoma, typically occurring within hours to weeks following initiation; discontinue therapy immediately in patients with acute decreases in visual acuity or ocular pain. Additional treatments may be needed if uncontrolled intraocular pressure persists. Risk factors may include a history of sulfonamide or penicillin allergy.
• Peripheral edema: The most common side effect of amlodipine is peripheral edema; occurs within 2-3 weeks of starting therapy.
• Photosensitivity: Photosensitization may occur.
• Renal function deterioration: May be associated with deterioration of renal function and/or increases in serum creatinine, particularly in patients with low renal blood flow (eg, renal artery stenosis, heart failure) whose glomerular filtration rate (GFR) is dependent on efferent arteriolar vasoconstriction by angiotensin II; deterioration may result in oliguria, acute renal failure, and progressive azotemia. Small increases in serum creatinine may occur following initiation; consider discontinuation only in patients with progressive and/or significant deterioration in renal function.
• Skin cancer, nonmelanoma: Prolonged use (≥3 years) may increase the risk for squamous cell carcinoma up to 4 times and increase the risk for basal cell carcinoma up to 1.25 times compared to patients not treated with hydrochlorothiazide (Pedersen 2018; Pottegård 2017).
• Sulfonamide (“sulfa”) allergy: The FDA-approved product labeling for many medications containing a sulfonamide chemical group includes a broad contraindication in patients with a prior allergic reaction to sulfonamides. There is a potential for cross-reactivity between members of a specific class (eg, two antibiotic sulfonamides). However, concerns for cross-reactivity have previously extended to all compounds containing the sulfonamide structure (SO2NH2). An expanded understanding of allergic mechanisms indicates cross-reactivity between antibiotic sulfonamides and nonantibiotic sulfonamides may not occur or at the very least this potential is extremely low (Brackett 2004; Johnson 2005; Slatore 2004; Tornero 2004). In particular, mechanisms of cross-reaction due to antibody production (anaphylaxis) are unlikely to occur with nonantibiotic sulfonamides. T-cell-mediated (type IV) reactions (eg, maculopapular rash) are less well understood and it is not possible to completely exclude this potential based on current insights. In cases where prior reactions were severe (Stevens-Johnson syndrome/TEN), some clinicians choose to avoid exposure to these classes.
Disease-related concerns:
• Aortic stenosis: Use amlodipine with extreme caution in patients with severe aortic stenosis; may reduce coronary perfusion resulting in ischemia. Per the manufacturer, use should be avoided in these patients.
• Ascites: Generally, avoid use of angiotensin receptor blockers in patients with ascites due to cirrhosis or refractory ascites; if use cannot be avoided in patients with ascites due to cirrhosis, monitor BP and renal function carefully to avoid rapid development of renal failure (AASLD [Runyon 2013]).
• Asthma: Hypersensitivity to hydrochlorothiazide may be observed more frequently in patients with bronchial asthma.
• Bariatric surgery: Dehydration: Avoid diuretics in the immediate postoperative period after bariatric surgery; electrolyte disturbances and dehydration may occur. Diuretics may be resumed, if indicated, once oral fluid intake goals are met (Ziegler 2009).
• Diabetes: Use hydrochlorothiazide with caution in patients with prediabetes or diabetes mellitus; may see a change in glucose control.
• Heart failure: Use of combination product in heart failure has not been studied; use with caution; may need to adjust dose, and/or concurrent diuretic therapy.
• Hepatic impairment: Avoid use in patients with severe hepatic impairment. In patients with mild-to-moderate hepatic impairment, monitor for worsening of hepatic or renal function, fluid status, electrolytes, and adverse reactions. In progressive or severe liver disease, avoid electrolyte and acid/base imbalances that might lead to hepatic encephalopathy/coma.
• Hypercalcemia: Thiazide diuretics may decrease renal calcium excretion; consider avoiding use in patients with hypercalcemia.
• Hypercholesterolemia: Use with caution in patients with moderate or high cholesterol concentrations; increased cholesterol and triglyceride levels have been reported with thiazides.
• Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) with outflow tract obstruction: Use amlodipine with caution in patients with HCM and outflow tract obstruction since reduction in afterload may worsen symptoms associated with this condition. Per the manufacturer, use should be avoided in these patients.
• Parathyroid disease: Thiazide diuretics reduce calcium excretion; pathologic changes in the parathyroid glands with hypercalcemia and hypophosphatemia have been observed with prolonged use; should be discontinued prior to testing for parathyroid function.
• Renal artery stenosis: Use valsartan with caution in patients with unstented unilateral/bilateral renal artery stenosis. When unstented bilateral renal artery stenosis is present, use is generally avoided due to the elevated risk of deterioration in renal function unless possible benefits outweigh risks.
• Renal impairment: Use with caution with preexisting renal insufficiency. Avoid use in severe renal impairment (CrCl <30 mL/minute). Cumulative effects may develop, including azotemia, in patients with impaired renal function; discontinue or consider withholding if renal impairment occurs. Contraindicated in patients with anuria.
• Systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE): Hydrochlorothiazide can cause SLE exacerbation or activation.
Concurrent drug therapy issues:
• Angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors and renin inhibitors: Concomitant use of an ACE-inhibitor or renin inhibitor (eg, aliskiren) is associated with an increased risk of hypotension, hyperkalemia, and renal dysfunction. Concomitant use with aliskiren should be avoided in patients with GFR <60 mL/minute and is contraindicated in patients with diabetes mellitus (regardless of GFR).
Special populations:
• Older adult: Exposure to amlodipine is increased in older adults; consider use of a lower initial dose (may necessitate use of individual agents).
• Pregnancy: [US Boxed Warning]: Drugs that act on the renin-angiotensin system can cause injury and death to the developing fetus. Discontinue as soon as possible once pregnancy is detected.
• Surgical patients: In patients on chronic angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) therapy, intraoperative hypotension may occur with induction and maintenance of general anesthesia; however, discontinuation of therapy prior to surgery is controversial. If continued preoperatively, avoidance of hypotensive agents during surgery is prudent (Hillis, 2011).
Excipient information presented when available (limited, particularly for generics); consult specific product labeling.
Tablet, Oral:
Exforge HCT: Amlodipine 5 mg, valsartan 160 mg, and hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg, Amlodipine 10 mg, valsartan 160 mg, and hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg, Amlodipine 10 mg, valsartan 320 mg, and hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg, Amlodipine 5 mg, valsartan 160 mg, and hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg, Amlodipine 10 mg, valsartan 160 mg, and hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg
Generic: Amlodipine 10 mg, valsartan 160 mg, and hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg, Amlodipine 10 mg, valsartan 160 mg, and hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg, Amlodipine 10 mg, valsartan 320 mg, and hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg, Amlodipine 5 mg, valsartan 160 mg, and hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg, Amlodipine 5 mg, valsartan 160 mg, and hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg
Yes
Tablets (amLODIPine-Valsartan-HCTZ Oral)
5-160-12.5 mg (per each): $9.57
5-160-25 mg (per each): $9.57
10-160-12.5 mg (per each): $10.86
10-160-25 mg (per each): $10.86
10-320-25 mg (per each): $13.78
Tablets (Exforge HCT Oral)
5-160-12.5 mg (per each): $12.96
5-160-25 mg (per each): $12.96
10-160-12.5 mg (per each): $14.70
10-160-25 mg (per each): $14.70
10-320-25 mg (per each): $18.66
Disclaimer: A representative AWP (Average Wholesale Price) price or price range is provided as reference price only. A range is provided when more than one manufacturer's AWP price is available and uses the low and high price reported by the manufacturers to determine the range. The pricing data should be used for benchmarking purposes only, and as such should not be used alone to set or adjudicate any prices for reimbursement or purchasing functions or considered to be an exact price for a single product and/or manufacturer. Medi-Span expressly disclaims all warranties of any kind or nature, whether express or implied, and assumes no liability with respect to accuracy of price or price range data published in its solutions. In no event shall Medi-Span be liable for special, indirect, incidental, or consequential damages arising from use of price or price range data. Pricing data is updated monthly.
Administer with or without food.
Treatment of hypertension.
Beers Criteria: Diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide) are identified in the Beers Criteria as potentially inappropriate medications to be used with caution in patients 65 years and older due to the potential to cause or exacerbate syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion (SIADH) or hyponatremia; monitor sodium concentration closely when initiating or adjusting the dose in older adults (Beers Criteria [AGS 2023]).
Refer to individual components.
Note: Interacting drugs may not be individually listed below if they are part of a group interaction (eg, individual drugs within “CYP3A4 Inducers [Strong]” are NOT listed). For a complete list of drug interactions by individual drug name and detailed management recommendations, use the drug interactions program by clicking on the “Launch drug interactions program” link above.
Agents with Clinically Relevant Anticholinergic Effects: May increase serum concentration of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Ajmaline: Sulfonamides may increase adverse/toxic effects of Ajmaline. Specifically, the risk for cholestasis may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Alcohol (Ethyl): May increase orthostatic hypotensive effects of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Alfuzosin: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Aliskiren: May increase nephrotoxic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Aliskiren may increase hyperkalemic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Aliskiren may increase hypotensive effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Management: Aliskiren use with ACEIs or ARBs in patients with diabetes is contraindicated. Combined use in other patients should be avoided, particularly when CrCl is less than 60 mL/min. If combined, monitor potassium, creatinine, and blood pressure closely. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Allopurinol: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase hypersensitivity effects of Allopurinol. Risk C: Monitor
ALPRAZolam: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of ALPRAZolam. Risk C: Monitor
Amifostine: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Amifostine. Management: When used at chemotherapy doses, hold blood pressure lowering medications for 24 hours before amifostine administration. If blood pressure lowering therapy cannot be held, do not administer amifostine. Use caution with radiotherapy doses of amifostine. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Aminolevulinic Acid (Systemic): Photosensitizing Agents may increase photosensitizing effects of Aminolevulinic Acid (Systemic). Risk X: Avoid
Aminolevulinic Acid (Topical): Photosensitizing Agents may increase photosensitizing effects of Aminolevulinic Acid (Topical). Risk C: Monitor
Amphetamines: May decrease antihypertensive effects of Antihypertensive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Angiotensin II: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers may decrease therapeutic effects of Angiotensin II. Risk C: Monitor
Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers may increase adverse/toxic effects of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors. Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers may increase serum concentration of Angiotensin-Converting Enzyme Inhibitors. Management: Use of telmisartan and ramipril is not recommended. It is not clear if any other combination of an ACE inhibitor and an ARB would be any safer. Consider alternatives when possible. Monitor blood pressure, renal function, and potassium if combined. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Antidiabetic Agents: Hyperglycemia-Associated Agents may decrease therapeutic effects of Antidiabetic Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Antidiabetic Agents: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may decrease therapeutic effects of Antidiabetic Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Antihepaciviral Combination Products: May increase serum concentration of Valsartan. Management: Consider decreasing the valsartan dose and monitoring for evidence of hypotension and worsening renal function if these agents are used in combination. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Antipsychotic Agents (Second Generation [Atypical]): Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Antipsychotic Agents (Second Generation [Atypical]). Risk C: Monitor
Arginine: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Arsenic Trioxide: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase hypotensive effects of Arsenic Trioxide. Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Arsenic Trioxide. Management: When possible, avoid concurrent use of arsenic trioxide with drugs that can cause electrolyte abnormalities, such as the thiazide and thiazide-like diuretics. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Asciminib: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Atosiban: Calcium Channel Blockers may increase adverse/toxic effects of Atosiban. Specifically, there may be an increased risk for pulmonary edema and/or dyspnea. Risk C: Monitor
Barbiturates: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Belumosudil: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Management: Avoid coadministration of belumosudil with these substrates of OATP1B1/1B3 for which minimal concentration increases can cause serious adverse effects. If coadministration is required, dose reductions of the OATP1B1/1B3 substrate may be required. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Benperidol: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Beta2-Agonists: May increase hypokalemic effects of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Bile Acid Sequestrants: May decrease absorption of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Management: Separate administration of bile acid sequestrants and oral thiazide diuretics by at least 4 hours. Monitor for decreased therapeutic effects of thiazide diuretics if coadministered with a bile acid sequestrant. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Brigatinib: May decrease antihypertensive effects of Antihypertensive Agents. Brigatinib may increase bradycardic effects of Antihypertensive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Brimonidine (Topical): May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Bromperidol: May decrease hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Bromperidol. Risk X: Avoid
Bulevirtide: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Management: Coadministration of bulevirtide with OATP1B1/1B3 (also known as SLCO1B1/1B3) substrates should be avoided when possible. If used together, close clinical monitoring is recommended. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Calcium Salts: May decrease therapeutic effects of Calcium Channel Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Calcium Salts: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase serum concentration of Calcium Salts. Risk C: Monitor
CarBAMazepine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of CarBAMazepine. Risk C: Monitor
Cardiac Glycosides: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase adverse/toxic effects of Cardiac Glycosides. Specifically, cardiac glycoside toxicity may be enhanced by the hypokalemic and hypomagnesemic effect of thiazide diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Ceftobiprole Medocaril: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Risk X: Avoid
Charcoal, Activated: May decrease serum concentration of AmLODIPine. Risk C: Monitor
Clofazimine: May increase serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Corticosteroids (Systemic): May increase hypokalemic effects of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
CycloPHOSphamide: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase adverse/toxic effects of CycloPHOSphamide. Specifically, granulocytopenia may be enhanced. Risk C: Monitor
CycloSPORINE (Systemic): Calcium Channel Blockers (Dihydropyridine) may increase serum concentration of CycloSPORINE (Systemic). CycloSPORINE (Systemic) may increase serum concentration of Calcium Channel Blockers (Dihydropyridine). Risk C: Monitor
CYP3A4 Inducers (Moderate): May decrease serum concentration of AmLODIPine. Risk C: Monitor
CYP3A4 Inducers (Strong): May decrease serum concentration of AmLODIPine. Risk C: Monitor
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Moderate): May increase serum concentration of AmLODIPine. Risk C: Monitor
CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Strong): May increase serum concentration of AmLODIPine. Risk C: Monitor
Dantrolene: May increase hyperkalemic effects of Calcium Channel Blockers. Dantrolene may increase negative inotropic effects of Calcium Channel Blockers. Risk X: Avoid
Dapoxetine: May increase orthostatic hypotensive effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Dapoxetine: May increase orthostatic hypotensive effects of Calcium Channel Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Darolutamide: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Desmopressin: Hyponatremia-Associated Agents may increase hyponatremic effects of Desmopressin. Risk C: Monitor
Dexketoprofen: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Sulfonamides. Risk C: Monitor
Dexmethylphenidate: May decrease therapeutic effects of Antihypertensive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Diacerein: May increase therapeutic effects of Diuretics. Specifically, the risk for dehydration or hypokalemia may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Diazoxide Choline: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Specifically, the hyperglycemic and hyperuricemic effects may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Diazoxide: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Diazoxide: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase adverse/toxic effects of Diazoxide. Risk C: Monitor
Dichlorphenamide: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase hypokalemic effects of Dichlorphenamide. Risk C: Monitor
Dipeptidyl Peptidase-IV Inhibitors: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Specifically, the risk for angioedema may be increased with this combination. Risk C: Monitor
Dofetilide: HydroCHLOROthiazide may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Dofetilide. HydroCHLOROthiazide may increase serum concentration of Dofetilide. Risk X: Avoid
Drospirenone-Containing Products: May increase hyperkalemic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
DULoxetine: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of DULoxetine. Risk C: Monitor
Eltrombopag: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Encorafenib: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
EPINEPHrine (Systemic): Diuretics may increase arrhythmogenic effects of EPINEPHrine (Systemic). Diuretics may decrease vasopressor effects of EPINEPHrine (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Finerenone: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers may increase hyperkalemic effects of Finerenone. Risk C: Monitor
Finerenone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Finerenone. Risk C: Monitor
Flibanserin: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Flibanserin. Risk C: Monitor
Flunarizine: May increase therapeutic effects of Antihypertensive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Fusidic Acid (Systemic): May increase serum concentration of CYP3A4 Substrates (High risk with Inhibitors). Management: Consider avoiding this combination if possible. If required, monitor patients closely for increased adverse effects of the CYP3A4 substrate. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Gemfibrozil: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Heparin: May increase hyperkalemic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Heparins (Low Molecular Weight): May increase hyperkalemic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Herbal Products with Blood Pressure Increasing Effects: May decrease antihypertensive effects of Antihypertensive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Herbal Products with Blood Pressure Lowering Effects: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Hypotension-Associated Agents: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Hypotension-Associated Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Iloperidone: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Indoramin: May increase hypotensive effects of Antihypertensive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Inhalational Anesthetics: May increase hypotensive effects of Calcium Channel Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Ipragliflozin: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Specifically, the risk for intravascular volume depletion may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Isocarboxazid: May increase antihypertensive effects of Antihypertensive Agents. Risk X: Avoid
Isocarboxazid: May increase hypotensive effects of Diuretics. Risk X: Avoid
Ivabradine: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase arrhythmogenic effects of Ivabradine. Risk C: Monitor
Ixabepilone: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Ixabepilone. Risk C: Monitor
Leflunomide: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Lemborexant: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Lemborexant. Management: The maximum recommended dosage of lemborexant is 5 mg, no more than once per night, when coadministered with weak CYP3A4 inhibitors. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Leniolisib: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Risk X: Avoid
Levodopa-Foslevodopa: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Levodopa-Foslevodopa. Risk C: Monitor
Levosulpiride: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase adverse/toxic effects of Levosulpiride. Risk X: Avoid
Licorice: May increase hypokalemic effects of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Lithium: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers may increase serum concentration of Lithium. Management: Initiate lithium at lower doses in patients receiving an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). Consider lithium dose reductions in patients stable on lithium therapy who are initiating an ARB. Monitor lithium concentrations closely when combined. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Lithium: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may decrease excretion of Lithium. Management: Reduce the lithium dose if coadministered with thiazide or thiazide-like diuretics. Monitor serum lithium levels during coadministration with thiazide and thiazide-like diuretics. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Lomitapide: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Lomitapide. Management: Patients on lomitapide 5 mg/day may continue that dose. Patients taking lomitapide 10 mg/day or more should decrease the lomitapide dose by half. The lomitapide dose may then be titrated up to a max adult dose of 30 mg/day. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Loop Diuretics: May increase hypotensive effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Loop Diuretics may increase nephrotoxic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Loop Diuretics: May increase hypotensive effects of Antihypertensive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Lormetazepam: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Lovastatin: AmLODIPine may increase serum concentration of Lovastatin. Risk C: Monitor
Magnesium Sulfate: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Calcium Channel Blockers (Dihydropyridine). Specifically, the risk of hypotension or muscle weakness may be increased. Risk C: Monitor
Mecamylamine: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase adverse/toxic effects of Mecamylamine. Management: Consider avoiding the use of mecamylamine and thiazide diuretics. If combined, mecamylamine prescribing information suggests reducing the mecamylamine dose by 50% in order to avoid excessive hypotension. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Melatonin: May decrease antihypertensive effects of Calcium Channel Blockers (Dihydropyridine). Risk C: Monitor
Metergoline: May decrease antihypertensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase orthostatic hypotensive effects of Metergoline. Risk C: Monitor
Methenamine: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may decrease therapeutic effects of Methenamine. Risk C: Monitor
Methotrexate: HydroCHLOROthiazide may increase nephrotoxic effects of Methotrexate. Risk C: Monitor
Methoxsalen (Systemic): Photosensitizing Agents may increase photosensitizing effects of Methoxsalen (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Methylphenidate: May decrease antihypertensive effects of Antihypertensive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Midazolam: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Midazolam. Risk C: Monitor
Molsidomine: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Multivitamins/Fluoride (with ADE): May increase hypercalcemic effects of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Multivitamins/Minerals (with ADEK, Folate, Iron): Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase hypercalcemic effects of Multivitamins/Minerals (with ADEK, Folate, Iron). Risk C: Monitor
Multivitamins/Minerals (with AE, No Iron): Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase serum concentration of Multivitamins/Minerals (with AE, No Iron). Specifically, thiazide diuretics may decrease the excretion of calcium, and continued concomitant use can also result in metabolic alkalosis. Risk C: Monitor
Naftopidil: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Neuromuscular-Blocking Agents (Nondepolarizing): Calcium Channel Blockers may increase neuromuscular-blocking effects of Neuromuscular-Blocking Agents (Nondepolarizing). Risk C: Monitor
Neuromuscular-Blocking Agents (Nondepolarizing): Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase neuromuscular-blocking effects of Neuromuscular-Blocking Agents (Nondepolarizing). Risk C: Monitor
Nicergoline: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Nicorandil: May increase hyperkalemic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Nicorandil: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
NiMODipine: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of NiMODipine. Risk C: Monitor
Nitroprusside: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Nitroprusside. Risk C: Monitor
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (Topical): May decrease therapeutic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents (Topical): May decrease therapeutic effects of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents: May decrease therapeutic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. The combination of these two agents may also significantly decrease glomerular filtration and renal function. Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers may increase adverse/toxic effects of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents. Specifically, the combination may result in a significant decrease in renal function. Risk C: Monitor
Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents: May decrease therapeutic effects of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase nephrotoxic effects of Nonsteroidal Anti-Inflammatory Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Obinutuzumab: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Management: Consider temporarily withholding blood pressure lowering medications beginning 12 hours prior to obinutuzumab infusion and continuing until 1 hour after the end of the infusion. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Opioid Agonists: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Diuretics. Opioid Agonists may decrease therapeutic effects of Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Palopegteriparatide: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase therapeutic effects of Palopegteriparatide. Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may decrease therapeutic effects of Palopegteriparatide. Risk C: Monitor
Pentoxifylline: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Perazine: May increase hypotensive effects of Antihypertensive Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Pholcodine: Blood Pressure Lowering Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Pholcodine. Risk C: Monitor
Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Pimozide: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Pimozide. Risk X: Avoid
Piperacillin: May increase hypokalemic effects of Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Polyethylene Glycol-Electrolyte Solution: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers may increase nephrotoxic effects of Polyethylene Glycol-Electrolyte Solution. Risk C: Monitor
Polyethylene Glycol-Electrolyte Solution: Diuretics may increase nephrotoxic effects of Polyethylene Glycol-Electrolyte Solution. Risk C: Monitor
Porfimer: Photosensitizing Agents may increase photosensitizing effects of Porfimer. Risk X: Avoid
Potassium Salts: May increase hyperkalemic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Potassium-Sparing Diuretics: May increase hyperkalemic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Prazosin: Antihypertensive Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Prazosin. Risk C: Monitor
Pretomanid: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Promazine: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase QTc-prolonging effects of Promazine. Risk X: Avoid
Prostacyclin Analogues: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Quinagolide: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Ranolazine: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Reboxetine: May increase hypokalemic effects of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Red Yeast Rice: AmLODIPine may increase serum concentration of Red Yeast Rice. Risk C: Monitor
Sacubitril: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers may increase adverse/toxic effects of Sacubitril. Risk X: Avoid
Selective Serotonin Reuptake Inhibitor: May increase hyponatremic effects of Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics. Risk C: Monitor
Silodosin: May increase hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents. Risk C: Monitor
Simvastatin: AmLODIPine may increase serum concentration of Simvastatin. Management: Dose of simvastatin should not exceed 20 mg daily if coadministering with amlodipine. If coadministering with simvastatin and amlodipine, close laboratory and clinical monitoring for signs and symptoms of rhabdomyolysis is warranted. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Sincalide: Drugs that Affect Gallbladder Function may decrease therapeutic effects of Sincalide. Management: Consider discontinuing drugs that may affect gallbladder motility prior to the use of sincalide to stimulate gallbladder contraction. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Sirolimus (Conventional): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Sirolimus (Conventional). Risk C: Monitor
Sirolimus (Protein Bound): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Sirolimus (Protein Bound). Management: Reduce the dose of protein bound sirolimus to 56 mg/m2 when used concomitantly with a weak CYP3A4 inhibitor. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Sodium Phosphates: Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers may increase nephrotoxic effects of Sodium Phosphates. Specifically, the risk of acute phosphate nephropathy may be enhanced. Risk C: Monitor
Sodium Phosphates: Diuretics may increase nephrotoxic effects of Sodium Phosphates. Specifically, the risk of acute phosphate nephropathy may be enhanced. Risk C: Monitor
Sotagliflozin: HydroCHLOROthiazide may decrease therapeutic effects of Sotagliflozin. Sotagliflozin may decrease serum concentration of HydroCHLOROthiazide. Risk C: Monitor
Sparsentan: May increase adverse/toxic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Risk X: Avoid
Tacrolimus (Systemic): Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers may increase hyperkalemic effects of Tacrolimus (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Tacrolimus (Systemic): Calcium Channel Blockers (Dihydropyridine) may increase serum concentration of Tacrolimus (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Tacrolimus (Systemic): CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Tacrolimus (Systemic). Risk C: Monitor
Terazosin: Antihypertensive Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Terazosin. Risk C: Monitor
Teriflunomide: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
Tolvaptan: May increase hyperkalemic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Topiramate: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase hypokalemic effects of Topiramate. Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase serum concentration of Topiramate. Risk C: Monitor
Toremifene: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase hypercalcemic effects of Toremifene. Risk C: Monitor
Triazolam: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Triazolam. Risk C: Monitor
Trimethoprim: May increase hyperkalemic effects of Angiotensin II Receptor Blockers. Risk C: Monitor
Trofinetide: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Management: Avoid concurrent use with OATP1B1/1B3 substrates for which small changes in exposure may be associated with serious toxicities. Monitor for evidence of an altered response to any OATP1B1/1B3 substrate if used together with trofinetide. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Ubrogepant: CYP3A4 Inhibitors (Weak) may increase serum concentration of Ubrogepant. Management: In patients taking weak CYP3A4 inhibitors, the initial and second dose (given at least 2 hours later if needed) of ubrogepant should be limited to 50 mg. Risk D: Consider Therapy Modification
Urapidil: Antihypertensive Agents may increase hypotensive effects of Urapidil. Risk C: Monitor
Verteporfin: Photosensitizing Agents may increase photosensitizing effects of Verteporfin. Risk C: Monitor
Vitamin D Analogs: Thiazide and Thiazide-Like Diuretics may increase hypercalcemic effects of Vitamin D Analogs. Risk C: Monitor
Voclosporin: May increase serum concentration of OATP1B1/1B3 (SLCO1B1/1B3) Substrates (Clinically Relevant with Inhibitors). Risk C: Monitor
See individual agents.
[US Boxed Warning]: Drugs that act on the renin-angiotensin system can cause injury and death to the developing fetus. Discontinue as soon as possible once pregnancy is detected. See individual agents.
Amlodipine (Naito 2015) and hydrochlorothiazide are present in breast milk; excretion of valsartan is unknown.
Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in the nursing infant, breastfeeding is not recommended by the manufacturer. See individual agents.
Avoid salt substitutes which contain potassium.
Baseline and periodic electrolyte panels, renal and liver function, urinalysis; BP, heart rate, peripheral edema; in HF, serum potassium during dose escalation and periodically thereafter
Amlodipine inhibits calcium ion from entering the “slow channels” or select voltage-sensitive areas of vascular smooth muscle and myocardium during depolarization, producing a relaxation of coronary vascular smooth muscle and coronary vasodilation; increases myocardial oxygen delivery in patients with vasospastic angina. Amlodipine directly acts on vascular smooth muscle to produce peripheral arterial vasodilation reducing peripheral vascular resistance and blood pressure.
Valsartan produces direct antagonism of the angiotensin II (AT2) receptors, unlike the ACE inhibitors. It displaces angiotensin II from the AT1 receptor and produces its blood pressure-lowering effects by antagonizing AT1-induced vasoconstriction, aldosterone release, catecholamine release, arginine vasopressin release, water intake, and hypertrophic responses. This action results in more efficient blockade of the cardiovascular effects of angiotensin II and fewer side effects than the ACE inhibitors.
Hydrochlorothiazide inhibits sodium reabsorption in the distal tubules causing increased excretion of sodium and water as well as potassium and hydrogen ions.
See individual agents.
