
How effective is valsartan in lowering blood pressure?
Disease description:
I have had hypertension for many years, and recently a friend recommended valsartan. May I ask, how effective is valsartan in lowering blood pressure?

Valsartan, as an active agent of renin-angiotensin system, is a long-acting antihypertensive medication. It primarily lowers blood pressure by blocking the binding of angiotensin II to its corresponding receptors, thereby reducing the vasoconstrictive effects of angiotensin and dilating peripheral blood vessels. Valsartan demonstrates particularly significant antihypertensive effects in patients with mild to moderate essential hypertension, usually achieving maximal blood pressure reduction after 3–6 weeks of treatment. Additionally, Valsartan offers further benefits such as improving cardiac function and reducing the burden on the kidneys, while also having relatively few side effects and a high level of safety. However, individual responses to medication may vary due to personal differences. Therefore, it is recommended that patients use Valsartan under the guidance of a physician and closely monitor changes in blood pressure to ensure effective blood pressure control.