Side effect management of sacubitril valsartan sodium tablets: how to deal with dizziness, cough, and fatigue
While exerting therapeutic effects on heart failure, sacubitril valsartan sodium tablets (Entresto) may also cause discomfort such as dizziness, coughing, and fatigue. Most reactions occur in the early stages of medication and can be alleviated as the body adapts, but they need to be correctly identified and addressed.
1、 Coping with Dizziness
1. Identify the cause
Dizziness is often related to a decrease in blood pressure, especially in the early stages of dose titration.
It may also be related to insufficient blood volume and excessive use of diuretics.
If accompanied by blackening or fainting in front of the eyes, it indicates low blood pressure and requires caution.
2. Daily response
When getting up or waking up, slow down your movements and sit for a moment before standing up.
Avoid standing for long periods of time, taking hot baths, and drinking alcohol.
Ensure adequate drinking water and avoid dehydration.
Record the time of dizziness and blood pressure, and inform the doctor during the follow-up visit.
When to seek medical attention
Dizziness frequently occurs or worsens.
Fainting and falling occur.
Blood pressure is significantly low (such as systolic blood pressure consistently below 90mmHg).
Doctors may adjust the dosage, diuretics, or combination medications.
2、 Coping with cough
1. Identify characteristics
Entresto causes far fewer coughs than ACE inhibitors.
If coughing decreases after switching from ACEI to Entresto, it indicates a correlation with ACEI.
If coughing persists, other reasons such as worsening heart failure or pulmonary infection should be ruled out.
2. Daily response
Avoid irritants such as smoke, dust, and cold air.
Keep the indoor air moist.
Drink appropriate water to relieve throat irritation.
Record the nature, timing, and triggering factors of coughing.
When to seek medical attention
Cough persists or worsens.
Accompanied by coughing up phlegm, fever, and difficulty breathing.
The doctor will evaluate whether it is related to the medication and adjust the plan if necessary.
Do not stop or change the medicine on your own.
3、 Coping with fatigue
1. Identify the cause
Fatigue may be related to heart failure itself, low blood pressure, or medication effects.
It may also be related to anemia, electrolyte imbalance, and poor sleep.
It is necessary to distinguish whether it is a drug reaction or a change in the condition.
2. Daily response
Ensure sufficient sleep and maintain a regular schedule.
Reasonably arrange activities, act within one's means, and avoid overexertion.
Properly supplement nutrition to ensure protein and vitamin intake.
Avoid sudden intense exercise and engage in light activities such as walking.
When to seek medical attention
Fatigue has significantly worsened, affecting daily activities.
Accompanied by shortness of breath, edema, and rapid weight gain.
Accompanied by dizziness, palpitations, and pale complexion.
Doctors will check blood pressure, kidney function, blood potassium, hemoglobin, etc., and adjust treatment accordingly.
Disclaimer：《Side effect management of sacubitril valsartan sodium tablets: how to deal with dizziness, cough, and fatigue》Edited and sorted by Seagull Pharmacy's editors. Please contact us in time if there is any infringement. In addition, the suggestions for drug usage, dosage and disease mentioned in the article are only for medical staff's reference, and can not be used as any basis for medication！