Biforge (5/80mg) 30 Tablets

Amlodipine works by selective inhibition of L-type calcium channels on vascular smooth muscle cells and cardiac muscle cells. By blocking these calcium channels, amlodipine reduces the influx of calcium ions into these cells. This leads to relaxation and dilation of blood vessels, as calcium is essential for muscle contraction. The relaxation of the blood vessels decreases the resistance the heart has to work against, thereby lowering blood pressure. Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB). Angiotensin II is a hormone that causes blood vessels to constrict, increasing blood pressure and promoting fluid retention. By blocking the AT1 receptors, valsartan prevents angiotensin II from binding to these receptors. This action leads to the relaxation and dilation of blood vessels, reducing vascular resistance and lowering blood pressure. Additionally, blocking angiotensin II helps decrease fluid retention by reducing the secretion of aldosterone, a hormone that promotes sodium and water retention. As a result, valsartan effectively helps to manage hypertension and alleviate symptoms associated with heart failure.

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Calcium Channel Blocker, Angiotensin Receptor Blocker

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Tablet

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This medication is used to manage:

• Hypertension
• Heart Failure
• Cardiac Stress

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Biforge (Valsartan + Amlodipine) dosage recommendations are:

• Hypertension - 1 tablet once daily, containing 5 mg Amlodipine and 160 mg Valsartan. The dose may be adjusted based on clinical response. For patients with inadequate control, the dosage may be increased to 1 tablet of Biforge twice daily, but this should be done under medical supervision.
• Chronic Heart Failure - 1 tablet once daily, containing 5 mg Amlodipine and 160 mg Valsartan. Dose adjustments may be made based on patient tolerance and clinical response. If needed, the dose can be increased to 2 tablets once daily (10 mg Amlodipine and 320 mg Valsartan), under medical guidance.
• Post-Myocardial Infarction - 1 tablet once daily, containing 5 mg Amlodipine and 160 mg Valsartan. The dosage may be adjusted based on patient tolerance and clinical response. In some cases, the dose may be increased to 2 tablets once daily (10 mg Amlodipine and 320 mg Valsartan), following a doctor's recommendation.

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If you have taken too many tablets of Biforge, or if someone else has taken your tablets, consult a doctor immediately. Excess fluid may accumulate in your lungs (pulmonary oedema) causing shortness of breath that may develop up to 24-48 hours after intake.

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If you forget to take this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. Then take your next dose at its usual time. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the dose you missed. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet.

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For best results, take your medication at the same time each day and swallow the tablets with a glass of water. Biforge can be taken with or without food, but it should not be taken with grapefruit or grapefruit juice.

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Do not use Biforge:

• If you have known hypersensitivity to any component.
• If you are co-administering aliskiren with this combination (amlodipine and valsartan) in patients with diabetes.

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Unraveling the side effects lurking behind this drug product are the following:

• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Tiredness
• Dry cough
• Abdominal or stomach pain

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Here are the essential warnings and precautions for the use of the medication:

• Patients with sodium or volume depletion, idiopathic or hereditary angioedema, biliary obstructive disorders, or primary hyperaldosteronism should use this medication with caution. It should also be used carefully in patients with severe obstructive coronary artery disease, severe congestive heart failure (CHF), recent myocardial infarction (MI), mitral or aortic stenosis, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy with outflow tract obstruction, and diabetes mellitus (DM).
• Special attention is needed for patients undergoing surgery or dialysis.
• The medication should be used cautiously in those with renal conditions, such as chronic kidney disease or unilateral/bilateral renal artery stenosis, as well as in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment.
• The safety of the medication during lactation has not been well established, so it should only be used if advised by a healthcare provider.

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Drug interactions with Amlodipine , Valsartan combination include:

• NSAIDs (may reduce antihypertensive effect)
• Potassium-sparing diuretics (risk of hyperkalemia)
• Lithium (increased risk of lithium toxicity)
• Rifampin (decreases amlodipine levels)
• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole) (increases amlodipine levels)
• ACE inhibitors (additive hypotensive effects)
• Other antihypertensives (additive hypotensive effects)
• Grapefruit juice (increases amlodipine levels)
• Diuretics (may enhance antihypertensive effects)

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The food interactions that should be considered while using Amlodipine and Valsartan are:

• High-sodium foods can reduce the effectiveness of the medication. A low-sodium diet is recommended.
• Avoid potassium-rich foods and excessive potassium supplements.
• Grapefruit juice may increase side effects by affecting the calcium channel blocker component. It’s best to avoid or limit grapefruit juice.
• Alcohol can amplify the medication’s effects, leading to dizziness or fainting. Limiting alcohol is advised.
• High-fat meals have no direct interaction, but a balanced diet supports overall health.

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Amlodipine and Valsartan should be stored properly to maintain their effectiveness. Store the product at a temperature between 15°C and 30°C in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat, light, and moisture. Ensure the container is tightly closed to prevent contamination. For safety purposes, keep this medication out of reach of children and pets to avoid accidental ingestion. It is advisable to avoid storing the product in humid or warm areas, such as bathrooms or kitchens. If you have any questions or concerns about proper storage, consult your doctor or pharmacist for further guidance to ensure the product’s quality and safety.

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