Authored by The Rx Advocates, / Medically Reviewed by Dr. Conor Sheehy, PharmD, BCPS
Last Updated: December 2024
Last Updated: December 2024
Entresto is a medication commonly prescribed to manage chronic heart failure, reducing the risk of hospitalization and death. While heart failure is a serious condition, Entresto, along with a healthy lifestyle, can help patients live a fulfilling life. However, it’s important to be aware of Entresto side effects while taking the medication.
Entresto side effects versus interactions
The side effects of Entresto include the unintended reactions or symptoms that can occur while on this heart failure medication, such as dizziness or cough. Interactions, conversely, refer to how Entresto may respond when combined with other medications or substances, potentially affecting its efficacy or causing harmful effects. In this guide, we’ll explore both the side effects and interactions of Entresto, starting with an overview of its primary uses and benefits.Entresto Uses
If you’re wondering what Entresto is used for, it’s primarily prescribed to manage chronic heart failure. Typically taken twice a day, Entresto is often used in conjunction with other medications to effectively alleviate heart failure symptoms. It serves as a substitute for ACE inhibitors or ARBs. Available in tablet form, Entresto comes in various dosages—24-26 mg, 49-51 mg, and 97-103 mg—to accommodate different treatment needs. These dose ranges account for the two active medications contained in each tablet. Understanding Entresto uses is vital for anyone dealing with chronic heart failure.Entresto Side Effects
Being well-informed about Entresto side effects is essential for anyone taking this medication for chronic heart failure. While Entresto is effective in managing symptoms, it does come with its own set of potential side effects.Common Entresto Side Effects
These effects are often mild to moderate in severity and may either resolve on their own or become manageable with minor treatment adjustments.- Cough: A persistent cough can be bothersome and may interfere with daily activities, although it’s generally less severe than other side effects.
- Dizziness: This can lead to balance issues and falls, affecting your ability to perform daily tasks safely.
Severe Side Effects
Each of these conditions requires immediate medical attention and could pose significant risks to an individual’s health. They could be life-threatening, lead to permanent damage, or significantly impair one’s quality of life if not promptly and adequately addressed.- Angioedema: Severe swelling beneath the skin, often around the eyes and lips, and sometimes the throat. Immediate medical attention is required to prevent breathing difficulties.
- Hypotension: Also known as low blood pressure, hypotension may cause fainting and dizziness, potentially leading to falls or other injuries.
- Impaired Renal Function: Reduced kidney efficiency, which may lead to fluid retention and waste buildup in the body, requiring medical intervention.
- Hyperkalemia: Elevated levels of potassium in the blood can disrupt heart function and may require urgent medical treatment to prevent cardiac issues.
- Shortness of Breath: Limits your physical activity and could be a sign of worsening heart failure, necessitating prompt medical attention.
Entresto and Pregnancy
If someone becomes pregnant while taking Entresto, they should consult their healthcare provider immediately. Entresto can harm or be fatal to an unborn baby, particularly affecting kidney development and causing other issues. If pregnancy is detected, discontinuation of Entresto is generally recommended as soon as possible. Alternative treatments that are safer for pregnant women and the fetus are usually considered.Entresto Interactions
Understanding Entresto interactions is crucial for safely managing chronic heart failure. When combining Entresto with other medications or substances, certain precautions are necessary to avoid harmful effects.Discontinuing ACE Inhibitors
If you are currently using an ACE (angiotensin-converting enzyme) inhibitor, it’s essential to discontinue its use before starting Entresto. Allow a 36-hour gap between stopping the ACE inhibitor and initiating Entresto to prevent adverse reactions.Hypersensitivity Precautions
If you’ve reported hypersensitivity to any ingredient in Entresto, consider alternative medications for treating your condition.ARB Considerations
Entresto contains the ARB (angiotensin receptor blocker) Valsartan. Therefore, it should not be used in conjunction with another ARB to avoid overdose or adverse effects.Medications to Avoid
Avoid taking medications that contain lithium while on Entresto, as the interaction may be harmful.Special Populations
- Elderly and Diuretic Therapy: For patients who are elderly or on diuretic therapy, Entresto may exacerbate renal issues.
- Compromised Renal Function: If you already have compromised renal function, using Entresto may worsen the condition.