What is a Generic Drug?
A generic drug is a copy of the brand-name drug with the same dosage, safety, strength, quality, consumption method, performance, and intended use. Before generics become available on the market, the generic company must prove it has the same active ingredients as the brand-name drug and works in the same way and in the same amount of time in the body.
The only differences between generics and their brand-name counterparts is that generics are less expensive and may look slightly different (eg. different shape or color), as trademarks laws prevent a generic from looking exactly like the brand-name drug.
Generics are less expensive because generic manufacturers don't have to invest large sums of money to develop a drug. When the brand-name patent expires, generic companies can manufacture a copy of the brand-name and sell it at a substantial discount.
Entresto (Sacubitril/Valsartan)
Also Known as Vymada
Generic Equivalent - Entresto (Sacubitril/Valsartan)
Prescription Required
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Product Details
Description
Entresto Medication Indications
Entresto (sacubitril/valsartan) is a prescription heart medication used to treat chronic heart failure. In adults, it can lower the risk of heart-related death and hospital stays for heart failure, especially when the heart is not pumping strongly. Entresto is also used for children aged 1 year and older who have symptoms of heart failure and a weakened pumping of the heart. It combines two drugs that help relax blood vessels, reduce extra salt and fluid, and make it easier for the heart to work.
Fact Table
Formula
C96H120N12Na6O21
License
EU EMA
Bioavailability
60%
Legal status
US: RX Only
Chemical Name
Sacubitril / Valsartan
Elimination half-life
1.4-11 hours
Dosage (Strength)
24/25mg (56 or 168 tablets), 49/51mg (56 or 168 tablets), 97/103mg (56 or 168 tablets)
Pregnancy
Consult a doctor
Brands
Entresto
Protein binding
97%
PubChem CID
71449007
MedlinePlus
a682462
ChEBI
-
ATC code
C09DX04
DrugBank
DB09292, DB00177
KEGG
D10226
Routes of administration
By mouth (tablets)
Directions
Take Entresto as prescribed by a healthcare provider. Most adults start at 49/51 mg twice daily, with or without food. The dosage may be increased every 2 to 4 weeks, up to 97/103 mg twice daily. Some people need a lower starting dose of 24/26 mg twice daily, including those not already taking certain heart or blood pressure medicines, those on low doses of them, or people with severe kidney problems or moderate liver problems.
Do not take Entresto at the same time as an ACE inhibitor. If switching from an ACE inhibitor, wait at least 36 hours after your last dose before starting Entresto. Children’s doses are based on body weight. If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose, and never take two doses at once.
Ingredients
The active ingredients are sacubitril and valsartan. The tablet inactive ingredients may include colloidal silicon dioxide, crospovidone, low-substituted hydroxypropylcellulose, magnesium stearate (vegetable origin), microcrystalline cellulose, and talc. The film coating may contain hypromellose, iron oxide colorants, polyethylene glycol 4000, talc, and titanium dioxide.
Cautions
Before using this medication, you may want to consult a healthcare provider about the following:
- Any existing health conditions
- Any allergies
- A list of all medications currently being taken
Entresto can harm or cause death to an unborn baby. Do not use it during pregnancy. If you can become pregnant, talk to your provider about reliable birth control. Stop Entresto and contact your provider if you become pregnant.
Entresto can cause angioedema, which may involve sudden swelling of the face, lips, tongue, throat, or airway that can make breathing difficult. This risk may be higher in Black patients and in anyone who has had angioedema before.
Entresto lowers blood pressure and can cause dizziness or fainting, especially when you stand up, if you are dehydrated, or if you also take diuretics, or water pills. Get up slowly and tell your healthcare provider if you feel lightheaded.
Kidney function and blood potassium should be checked during treatment. Entresto can affect the kidneys and increase potassium levels, also called hyperkalemia, which may be a higher risk if you take potassium supplements or potassium-sparing diuretics and have kidney disease or diabetes.
Do not combine Entresto with an ACE inhibitor, and avoid aliskiren if you have diabetes or reduced kidney function. Using it with potassium-sparing diuretics or potassium supplements can increase potassium, and NSAID pain relievers may worsen kidney function. In addition, Entresto can increase blood levels of lithium.
Tell your healthcare provider if you have kidney or liver problems. Entresto is not recommended in those with severe liver impairment.
Store at room temperature, 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), protect from moisture, and keep out of reach of children.
Contraindications
Avoid taking or using this medication if any of the following apply:
- A known allergy or hypersensitivity to any ingredient of Entresto.
- A history of angioedema, or serious swelling, related to previous treatment with an ACE inhibitor or ARB.
- Already taking an ACE inhibitor, such as enalapril or lisinopril. Allow at least 36 hours between the two medicines.
- Using it together with aliskiren, a blood pressure medicine, if you have diabetes.
Side Effects
Common side effects of Entresto include:
- Low blood pressure
- High potassium levels
- Cough
- Dizziness
- Reduced kidney function
Stop taking Entresto and get emergency medical help if you have signs of angioedema or a serious allergic reaction, such as swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing or swallowing. Contact your healthcare provider if you feel faint or very dizzy, notice much less urine or swelling that could signal kidney problems, or have symptoms of high potassium, such as muscle weakness, an irregular or slow heartbeat, or tingling.
References
Entresto Highlights of Prescribing Information. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation; 2024.
Entresto Drug Label Information. East Hanover, NJ: Novartis Pharmaceuticals Corporation; 2025.
Frequently Asked Questions about Entresto
What is Entresto used for?
Entresto is a prescription medicine used to treat adults with long-lasting (chronic) heart failure. It helps reduce the risk of death and hospitalization. It works better when the heart cannot pump a normal amount of blood to the body.
What drugs should not be taken with Entresto?
It’s crucial to watch for potential interactions to stay safe. Avoid combining it with ACE inhibitors, ARBs like losartan, or aliskiren due to increased risks of side effects. Additionally, be cautious with medications that raise potassium levels, NSAIDs like ibuprofen, and lithium when using Entresto, as they can lead to complications and require close monitoring.
Does Entresto lower blood pressure?
Entresto combines valsartan, which relaxes blood vessels, and sacubitril, which increases beneficial peptides. Together, they lower blood pressure by promoting vasodilation and reducing fluid retention. However, individual responses may vary, so it's essential to follow healthcare provider guidance.
What are the most common side effects of Entresto?
The most common side effects of Entresto include low blood pressure, high potassium, cough, dizziness, and kidney problems.
Do Entresto side effects go away?
Most common side effects of Entresto, such as low blood pressure, dizziness, cough, and other temporary side effects, should resolve within a day of stopping the medication. Extremely low blood pressure or extremely high potassium levels may require supportive medical care but are usually corrected in a few hours.
How does Entresto work?
Entresto is an angiotensin receptor-neprilysin inhibitor. It helps relax blood vessels and reduces the strain on the heart.
How long does it take for Entresto to work?
Entresto typically starts to show its effects within a few weeks of consistent use. However, individual responses may vary.
What happens if you suddenly stop taking Entresto?
Abruptly stopping Entresto can worsen heart failure symptoms. Always follow your doctor’s instructions.
What happens if you take a double dose of Entresto?
Taking a double dose of Entresto can increase the risk of side effects. Contact your doctor if this occurs.
Can Entresto be taken once a day?
Yes, Entresto is typically taken twice daily, but consult your doctor for specific dosing instructions.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The above information is intended to increase awareness of health information and does not suggest treatment or diagnosis. This information is not a substitute for individual medical attention and should not be construed to indicate that use of the drug is safe, appropriate, or effective for you. See your health care professional for medical advice and treatment.Product Code : 13174
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