*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives.

Who Can And Cannot Take Valsartan

NHS medicines information on who can take valsartan and who may not be able to take it.

Who can take valsartan

Most adults aged 18 and over can take valsartan.

Children aged 6 years and over can take valsartan, but only to treat high blood pressure.

Your doctor may prescribe valsartan if you've tried taking blood pressure-lowering medicines called ACE inhibitors, such as ramipril and lisinopril, but had to stop taking them because of side effects such as a dry, irritating cough.

Who may not be able to take valsartan

Valsartan is not suitable for some people. To make sure it's safe for you, tell your doctor if you:

have ever had an allergic reaction to valsartan or other medicine
have heart, liver or kidney problems
have diabetes
have recently had a kidney transplant
have diarrhoea or vomiting (or have recently had this)
are on a low-salt diet
have low blood pressure (hypotension)
are trying to get pregnant, are already pregnant or if you are breastfeeding

OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
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