What is sacubitril/valsartan (Entresto)?
Entresto is the brand name for a medication that contains two drugs — sacubitril and valsartan (these are the generic drug names). Sacubitril/valsartan is a medication for patients with heart failure and a weak heart muscle (reduced ejection fraction). The medication reduces the risk of hospitalization for heart failure treatment and death due to heart disease.
How does the medication work?
This drug combination is an angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI). The medication opens your blood vessels and reduces the strain on the heart. Sacubitril/valsartan is prescribed in place of an angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEI) or angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB). It is usually used together with other heart failure medications.
How do I take this medication?
Your doctor or nurse will tell you exactly how to take sacubitril/valsartan. The usual dose is two times a day. You will most likely start taking a low dose of the medication and increase the dose every 2 to 4 weeks until you reach the target dose (the dose used in research trials). You can take the medication with or without food.
What side effects can this medication cause?
Serious side effects of sacubitril/valsartan are listed below. Other side effects are possible. Talk to your caregiver if you have any questions or concerns about side effects.
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue or throat (angioedema) that may cause trouble breathing or death. If you have these symptoms, call 911 to get emergency help right away. Do not take sacubitril/valsartan again. The risk of these symptoms is higher among patients who are black and those who have had these symptoms before taking this medication or an ACEI.
- Low blood pressure (hypotension). Call your caregiver if you feel dizzy or light-headed, or very tired.
- Kidney problems. While you are taking sacubitril/valsartan, you will have kidney function tests. If there are changes in your kidney function, you may need to see your caregiver and have your medication adjusted.
- High potassium levels. Your caregiver will check your potassium levels while you are taking sacubitril/ valsartan to make sure they are normal.
Who should not take this medication?
DO NOT take sacubitril/valsartan if you:
- Are currently taking an ACE inhibitor or ARB. You must stop taking these medications before taking sacubitril/valsartan.
- Are allergic to sacubitril, valsartan or any other ingredient in the medication. A full list of ingredients is included in the information that comes with your prescription. Ask your doctor or pharmacist if you have any concerns about allergies.
- Are pregnant. Sacubitril/valsartan can cause harm or death to your unborn baby. Let your doctor know right away if you become pregnant while taking sacubitril/valsartan.
- Are breast feeding.
- Have ever had swelling in your face, lips, tongue or throat, or had trouble breathing while taking an ACE inhibitor or ARB.
- Have diabetes and take medication that contains aliskiren.
Information to share with your doctor before you take this medication
Before you start taking sacubitril/valsartan, it is important to let your doctor know about all of your medical conditions, including kidney and liver problems. You should also let your doctor know if:
- You are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.
- You are breast feeding or plan to breast feed.
Tell your doctor about all medications and supplements you take, including items you buy without a prescription (over-the-counter). Some medications can cause problems when taken with sacubitril/ valsartan. It is especially important to tell your doctor if you take:
- Potassium supplements.
- Potassium-sparing diuretics, such as spironolactone, eplerenone, triamterene or amiloride.
- Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), including COX-2 inhibitors.
- Lithium.
- Medications for high blood pressure or heart problems, such as an ACE inhibitor, ARB or aliskiren.
Please talk to a member of your healthcare team or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking this medication.
