Entresto (Sacubitril/Valsartan) from Maple Leaf Medications.

Entresto (sacubitril and valsartan) Indications

Entresto, generic name sacubitril and valsartan, is an oral medication used to decrease the risk of hospitalization and cardiovascular death in adult patients with chronic heart failure.

Entresto is also used for the treatment of symptomatic heart failure accompanied by systemic left ventricular systolic dysfunction in patients who are one year of age and older.

Entresto is classified as a combination of a neprilysin inhibitor (sacubitril) and an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) (valsartan). It increases the level of natriuretic peptide and inhibits the effects of angiotensin II through selective blocking of angiotensin I receptors.

Entresto (sacubitril and valsartan) Uses and Dosage

Please read the medication information guide before taking Entresto.

Entresto should be taken exactly as prescribed. Entresto is taken by mouth with a glass of water regardless of food two times daily. Do not cut, chew, crush, or break the film-coated tablets. It is also important to take the medication at the same time each day and avoid missing any doses. It may be beneficial to prepare a dosing schedule to stay on track.

Entresto (sacubitril and valsartan) Side Effects

Some of the common side effects of Entresto are:

• Dizziness
• Lightheadedness
• Cough
• Low blood pressure

These side effects are usually mild, yet if they persist or worsen, then consult your healthcare provider.

Serious Side Effects

Some of the serious side effects of Entresto are:

• Changes in urine output
• Muscle weakness
• Slow/irregular heartbeat
• Trouble breathing
• Fainting

These serious adverse reactions should be reported immediately.

Allergic Reactions

Do not take Entresto if you have an allergy to sacubitril, valsartan, other ARBs, or some  ACE inhibitors. Seek emergency assistance if an allergy develops while using this medication. Signs of an allergy include:

• Itching
• Rashes
• Hives
• Severe dizziness
• Swelling of the face and neck
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Difficulty breathing
• Wheezing

Entresto (sacubitril and valsartan) Cautions

Using Entresto may be contraindicated in patients with the following medical conditions:

• Dehydration
• Hyperkalemia (high potassium level in the blood)
• Kidney disease
• Liver disease
• Serious allergic reactions

Entresto should not be taken during pregnancy as this can harm fetal development. If a woman becomes pregnant while using this medication, then she should tell her doctor immediately.

It is unknown if Entresto can be excreted through breast milk. It is best to consult the physician regarding all the risks before breastfeeding while taking this medication.

Entresto (sacubitril and valsartan) Form and Strength

Entresto is available in the following strengths:

• Entresto, film-coated tablets
  • 24/26 mg
  • 49/51 mg
  • 97/103 mg

FAQ

When is the best time to take Entresto?

Entresto is recommended to be taken at equal intervals. One dose should be taken in the morning and the second dose in the evening. Preferably, the doses are administered at the same time each day.

Is Entresto a high blood pressure medication?

Hypertension is not among the approved uses for Entresto. However, one of the active ingredients of this medication, sacubitril, is an antihypertensive medication.

What foods should I avoid while taking Entresto?

As Entresto can increase the levels of potassium in your body, foods containing high potassium must be avoided. This includes salt substitutes, dried fruits, potatoes, bananas, tomatoes, and beans.

How long does it take for Entresto to improve heart function?

The effectiveness of Entresto may vary from person to person and may depend on various factors. This medication must be taken regularly for it to work properly.

Resources

https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2021/207620s018lbl.pdf

https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-169241/entresto-oral/details