Exforge HCT (amlodipine, valsartan, hydrochlorothiazide) is a combination of a calcium channel blocker, an angiotensin II receptor antagonist, and a thiazide diuretic (water pill) used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), and is usually given after other blood pressure medications have been tried without successful treatment of symptoms. Common side effects of Exforge HCT include:
- dizziness,
- lightheadedness, or
- headache as your body adjusts to the medication.
Other side effects of Exforge HCT include:
- tired feeling,
- nausea,
- upset stomach,
- muscle spasms,
- back pain,
- stuffy nose, or
- sore throat.
Exforge HCT is taken in a once-daily dosage. The maximum recommended dose is 10/320/25 mg. Exforge HCT may interact with other blood pressure medications, steroids, carbamazepine, lithium, cholestyramine or colestipol, insulin or oral diabetes medications, barbiturates, other diuretics (water pills), aspirin or other NSAIDs (nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs), muscle relaxers, or narcotics. Tell your doctor all medications you use. Exforge HCT is not recommended for use during pregnancy due to the risk for harm to a fetus. It is unknown if amlodipine or valsartan pass into breast milk. Hydrochlorothiazide passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
