The Side Effects of Entresto: What You Need to Know
Entresto, also known as sacubitril/valsartan, is a medication used to treat heart failure and high blood pressure. It is a combination of two drugs, sacubitril and valsartan, which work together to improve the heart's function and reduce symptoms of heart failure. While Entresto has been shown to be effective in treating heart failure, it can also cause side effects in some patients.
What are the Common Side Effects of Entresto?
According to the FDA, the most common side effects of Entresto include:
* Dizziness: This is one of the most common side effects of Entresto, affecting up to 20% of patients.
* Cough: A cough is a common side effect of Entresto, affecting up to 15% of patients.
* Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak is a common side effect of Entresto, affecting up to 10% of patients.
* Nausea: Nausea and vomiting are common side effects of Entresto, affecting up to 10% of patients.
* Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of Entresto, affecting up to 5% of patients.
Less Common but Serious Side Effects of Entresto
While the common side effects of Entresto are usually mild and temporary, there are some less common but serious side effects that patients should be aware of:
* Angioedema: This is a rare but serious side effect of Entresto, which can cause swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat.
* Hypotension: Entresto can cause a drop in blood pressure, which can lead to dizziness, fainting, or even a heart attack.
* Kidney problems: Entresto can cause kidney problems, including kidney failure, in some patients.
* Liver damage: Entresto can cause liver damage, including liver failure, in some patients.
Who is at Risk for Side Effects of Entresto?
Certain patients are at a higher risk for side effects of Entresto, including:
* Older adults: Older adults are more likely to experience side effects of Entresto, particularly dizziness and fatigue.
* Patients with kidney disease: Patients with kidney disease are at a higher risk for kidney problems caused by Entresto.
* Patients with liver disease: Patients with liver disease are at a higher risk for liver damage caused by Entresto.
* Patients taking other medications: Patients taking other medications, particularly blood thinners, may be at a higher risk for side effects of Entresto.
How to Manage Side Effects of Entresto
While side effects of Entresto can be uncomfortable, there are steps that patients can take to manage them:
* Take Entresto as directed: Patients should take Entresto exactly as directed by their doctor, and not skip doses or take more than the recommended amount.
* Stay hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help to prevent dehydration and reduce the risk of side effects.
* Get regular check-ups: Regular check-ups with your doctor can help to monitor side effects and adjust your treatment plan as needed.
* Report side effects: Patients should report any side effects to their doctor immediately, as some side effects can be serious.
Conclusion
Entresto is a medication that can be effective in treating heart failure and high blood pressure, but it can also cause side effects in some patients. While the common side effects of Entresto are usually mild and temporary, there are some less common but serious side effects that patients should be aware of. By understanding the potential side effects of Entresto and taking steps to manage them, patients can reduce their risk of experiencing side effects and get the most out of their treatment.
Key Takeaways
* Entresto can cause common side effects such as dizziness, cough, fatigue, nausea, and headache.
* Less common but serious side effects of Entresto include angioedema, hypotension, kidney problems, and liver damage.
* Certain patients are at a higher risk for side effects of Entresto, including older adults, patients with kidney disease, patients with liver disease, and patients taking other medications.
* Patients can manage side effects of Entresto by taking the medication as directed, staying hydrated, getting regular check-ups, and reporting side effects to their doctor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Q: What are the most common side effects of Entresto?
A: The most common side effects of Entresto include dizziness, cough, fatigue, nausea, and headache.
2. Q: Can Entresto cause serious side effects?
A: Yes, Entresto can cause serious side effects, including angioedema, hypotension, kidney problems, and liver damage.
3. Q: Who is at risk for side effects of Entresto?
A: Certain patients are at a higher risk for side effects of Entresto, including older adults, patients with kidney disease, patients with liver disease, and patients taking other medications.
4. Q: How can I manage side effects of Entresto?
A: Patients can manage side effects of Entresto by taking the medication as directed, staying hydrated, getting regular check-ups, and reporting side effects to their doctor.
5. Q: Can I take Entresto if I have kidney disease?
A: Patients with kidney disease should talk to their doctor before taking Entresto, as it can cause kidney problems in some patients.
Sources
1. FDA: "Entresto (Sacubitril/Valsartan) Tablets" [online]. Available from: <https://www.fda.gov/drugs/information-drug-class/drug-safety-and-availability/entresto-sacubitril-valsartan-tablets>
2. DrugPatentWatch.com: "Entresto (Sacubitril/Valsartan) Patent" [online]. Available from: <https://www.drugpatentwatch.com/patent/US-20130041543>
3. Mayo Clinic: "Entresto (Sacubitril/Valsartan)" [online]. Available from: <https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/entresto/safety/hrb-20060619>
4. WebMD: "Entresto (Sacubitril/Valsartan)" [online]. Available from: <https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-173191/entresto-oral/details>
5. NCBI: "Sacubitril/Valsartan (Entresto) in heart failure: a review of the evidence" [online]. Available from: <https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6461115/>