Entresto is an oral prescription medication containing two active ingredients: sacubitril and valsartan. The FDA approved it in 2015 for the treatment of chronic heart failure in adults. Since then, its use has expanded to include the treatment of symptomatic heart failure in pediatric patients ages one year and older.

• For adults with chronic heart failure, Entresto can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization due to worsening heart failure symptoms.

• In children ages one and older with symptomatic heart failure with systemic left ventricular systolic dysfunction, Entresto improves cardiovascular outcomes.

If you're interested in trying Entresto, speak with your doctor about whether it's right for you. When it comes time to fill your prescription, using a reputable online Canadian pharmacy like Canada Pharmacy Depot can help you save up to 90% on your medication costs.

Entresto combines two complementary medications to treat heart failure: sacubitril and valsartan. Together, these medications form an angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor (ARNI) that eases the burden on the heart.

• Sacubitril blocks the breakdown of natriuretic peptides. As levels of these peptides rise, more sodium and water are excreted in the urine. This reduces fluid buildup and lowers blood pressure, taking the strain off the struggling heart. Sacubitril also helps prevent fibrosis, which is the formation of stiff scar tissue that can impair heart function.

• Valsartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker that inhibits the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that promotes salt retention and constricts blood vessels. By blocking its receptors, valsartan allows blood vessels to relax and widen, reducing pressure on the heart.

Entresto comes in three strengths, each with a specific combination of sacubitril and valsartan. The dosage of sacubitril is listed first, followed by valsartan.

The three strengths of Entresto are:

• 24 mg of sacubitril and 26 mg of valsartan (24/26 mg tablet)
• 49 mg of sacubitril and 51 mg of valsartan (49/51 mg tablet)
• 97 mg of sacubitril and 103 mg of valsartan (97/103 mg tablet)

When starting Entresto, your doctor will likely prescribe a low dose and gradually increase it over 2 to 4 weeks until you reach the maintenance dose. This process, known as titration, allows your body to adjust to the medication slowly.

For most people taking Entresto, side effects are mild and manageable. But it's important to understand the range of possible side effects so you can monitor your symptoms.

Common Entresto side effects include:

• Low blood pressure
• High potassium levels
• Cough
• Dizziness

While rare, Entresto can sometimes lead to more serious side effects that require medical care. These include:

• Dangerously low blood pressure
• Severely high potassium
• Kidney problems
• Angioedema (swelling beneath the skin)

What is Entresto used for?

Entresto is a prescription oral medication used to:

• Reduce the risk of cardiovascular death or hospitalization due to worsening heart failure in adults.

• Treat symptomatic heart failure in children ages one year and older.

How do I take Entresto?

Entresto is an oral medication that comes in tablet form. The typical dosage is one tablet taken twice daily, either with or without food. For individuals who have difficulty swallowing tablets, such as young children or adults with swallowing disorders, Entresto can be prepared as an oral suspension by a pharmacist or doctor.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Entresto?

If you miss a dose of Entresto, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, take your next dose at the scheduled time and skip the missed dose. Do not double up or take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.

What happens if I overdose on Entresto?

While there is limited data available regarding overdoses of Entresto, some clinical studies in healthy volunteers provide insight into what to expect in the event of an overdose and how to respond.

In one study, volunteers were administered a single high dose of 583 mg of sacubitril and 617 mg of valsartan, which was well tolerated. Similarly, in a separate 14-day study, volunteers were given high daily doses of 437 mg of sacubitril and 463 mg of valsartan, which was also well tolerated.

The most likely side effect of an Entresto overdose is low blood pressure, given that Entresto works by lowering blood pressure. If an overdose of Entresto is suspected in yourself or someone else, seek emergency medical care immediately.