First-of-Its-Kind Blood Pressure Rx Approved

The US Food and Drug Administration has approved first-of-its-kind Byvalson to treat high blood pressure.

Byvalson is a single product containing two medications: nebivolol and valsartan. Nebivolol belongs to a group of drugs called beta blockers, which work by relaxing blood vessels and slowing heart rate. This improves blood flow and decreases overall blood pressure. Valsartan belongs to a group of drugs called angiotensin II receptor antagonists, which help blood vessels relax.

Byvalson is the first approved blood pressure drug that contains a combination of a beta blocker and angiotensin II receptor antagonist, according to a press release from Allergan, which markets this drug.

Byvalson can be given alone or in combination with other medications used to lower blood pressure. This medication is available in tablet form and is to be taken once a day.

Byvalson carries a boxed warning for its potential to cause toxicity to the fetus if given to a pregnant woman.

Because this medication contains a beta blocker, it is recommended not to suddenly stop taking this medication. Suddenly stopping this medication can cause harm.

Byvalson is expected to be available in the second half of this year, according to Allergan.