Uses of Tolvaptan

Tolvaptan is used to treat low serum sodium levels in adults who have a "syndrome of inappropriate antidiuretic hormone secretion" (SIADH), a condition in which the kidneys retain too much water.

Therapeutic Category

Tolvaptan: Vasopressin antagonists

How Tolvaptan works

Tolvaptan works by suppressing vasopressin (a hormone that helps prevent the loss of water from the body by reducing urine output) leading to increased urine production and a raise in sodium concentration in blood.

Common side effects of Tolvaptan

• thirst
• signs of high sodium level such as restlessness, extreme thirst, confusion, and lethargy)
• excessive drinking of water
• dehydration
• nausea
• signs of high potassium levels like shortness of breath, chest pain, nausea, or vomiting
• signs of high creatinine in the blood such as swelling or oedema, high blood pressure, muscle cramps and chest pain
• signs of high uric acid (severe pain in joints, joint stiffness, difficulty in moving affected joints)
• increase or decrease in blood sugar level
• decreased appetite
• fainting
• headache
• dizziness
• low blood pressure when standing up
• constipation
• diarrhoea
• dry mouth
• patchy bleeding in the skin
• itching
• frequent urination
• tiredness, general weakness
• fever
• general feeling of being unwell
• blood in the urine

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• difficulty in urination
• symptoms of allergic reaction included swelling of the face, lips or tongue, itching, generalised rash, or severe wheezing or breathlessness
• feel sick, loss of appetite, upper right abdominal discomfort, dark urine, yellowing of skin or eyes (jaundice)
• In case of accidental overdosage or ingestion

Health Tips for Tolvaptan

• Take Tolvaptan exactly as prescribed by your Doctor. Do not alter the dosage or stop taking it without consulting your doctor
• Inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, and herbal remedies you are taking
• Tolvaptan is not recommended for use in pregnant or breast feeding women
• Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking Tolvaptan as it may increase its side effects