Virtual visit

Diovan® (valsartan)

With clinical trial evidence for reducing cardiovascular mortality after a heart attack, Diovan is an ARB prescribed for high blood pressure and heart failure. After you book, your clinician reviews your history so your visit is about finding the right fit for you, whether that's Diovan or another option.

Evidence for reducing cardiovascular death after heart attack with LV dysfunction

No dry cough — a key advantage over ACE inhibitors

Available as a low-cost generic (valsartan)

Visit options

Costs shown are for the visit only. You'll pay for medication at your preferred pharmacy.

Video Visit

$25

Est. or $100 w/o insurance

Chat Visit

$30

w/o insurance

Most insurance accepted

Board-certified clinicians

No hidden fees

Available nationwide

What is Diovan (valsartan)?

Diovan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) used to treat high blood pressure, heart failure, and to reduce cardiovascular mortality after a heart attack in patients with left ventricular dysfunction. It works by blocking the AT1 receptor that angiotensin II binds to—preventing the vasoconstriction, fluid retention, and cardiac remodeling that this hormone drives. Valsartan is taken once daily and is one of the most clinically studied ARBs, with strong evidence for both blood pressure reduction and long-term cardiovascular and heart failure outcomes.

Angiotensin II AT1 receptor blockade

Selectively blocks AT1 receptors, preventing angiotensin II from causing vasoconstriction, aldosterone release, and sodium retention—lowering blood pressure through direct vessel relaxation without affecting the bradykinin pathway responsible for ACE inhibitor cough.

Heart failure management

Reduces the neurohormonal overactivation that drives progressive cardiac remodeling in heart failure, decreasing hospitalizations and improving outcomes in patients with reduced ejection fraction.

Post-MI cardiovascular protection

In patients with left ventricular dysfunction following a heart attack, Valsartan reduces the risk of cardiovascular death and heart failure progression—addressing the harmful renin-angiotensin system activation that follows myocardial injury.

Ongoing support, always available.

You’ll be supported by experienced clinicians who care for a wide range of health needs, from everyday concerns to more complex conditions.

Our clinicians track your progress over time and adjust your care as needed. If medication is prescribed, we’ll manage dosing and monitor for side effects. If lab testing is recommended, we review results and refine your plan accordingly. You’re never left to navigate care on your own.

All your care in one place. That’s the General Medicine difference.

We help you understand your options, connect you to the right clinicians, manage prescriptions, coordinate any needed evaluations, and keep an eye on your overall health along the way. It’s comprehensive care that looks at the full picture — your goals, your history, your lifestyle — and makes it simple to move forward with confidence.

What our customers have to say

“I feel like I’m finally on the right path to improving my health with the right support now! It’s so refreshing and reassuring.”

Emerald

“My experience with General Medicine was amazing. The understanding and care that was taken to figure out what is exactly going on with me. I feel like a weight has been lifted off of me.”

Kaylee

“I couldn’t be happier with my experience with General Medicine! They are fast, responsive, kind and knowledgeable. It is much easier, more affordable and faster.”

Nika

Get the care you need, without the wait.

Frequently asked questions

What conditions is Diovan used for?

Diovan is prescribed for high blood pressure, heart failure, and to reduce cardiovascular mortality in patients with left ventricular dysfunction following a heart attack. It works by blocking angiotensin II at the AT1 receptor.

How long before Diovan lowers my blood pressure?

Blood pressure reduction typically begins within the first week. Full effect at a given dose usually develops over 3–6 weeks. Your clinician may adjust the dose based on your response over time.

Why might I be on Diovan instead of an ACE inhibitor?

Valsartan provides similar cardiovascular and kidney protection to ACE inhibitors without causing the persistent dry cough that affects up to 20% of people on ACE inhibitors — a common reason for switching to an ARB.

What side effects might I experience?

Dizziness — particularly when standing quickly — is most common when starting. Elevated potassium can occur with long-term use. Rare but serious swelling reactions (angioedema) require immediate medical attention if they develop.

Can I take Diovan during pregnancy?

No. Valsartan is contraindicated in pregnancy and can cause serious harm to the developing fetus — particularly kidney development. Stop immediately and contact your clinician if pregnancy occurs while taking Diovan.