Heart failure medicine (Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor — ARNI)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Sacubitril/Valsartan is a combination heart medicine that works in two ways — one part (sacubitril) helps your body remove extra fluid and relax blood vessels, while the other part (valsartan) lowers blood pressure and reduces strain on the heart.
Blocks angiotensin II type-1 (AT1) receptors to reduce vasoconstriction and aldosterone release, while simultaneously inhibiting neprilysin to prevent degradation of natriuretic peptides, collectively reducing cardiac afterload, promoting vasodilation, and improving heart function.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
Adults usually start with one low-dose tablet (e.g. Sacuvan 24/26 mg or Uperio 50 mg) taken twice daily — morning and evening. Your doctor will gradually increase the dose every 2-4 weeks depending on how your body responds. You can take it with or without food, but try to take it at the same times each day.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two tablets at once to make up for a missed dose.
Only buy this medicine from licensed pharmacies — do not purchase from roadside vendors or open markets as fake heart drugs are dangerous and can kill. Do not stop taking it on your own even if you feel better, as heart failure needs continuous management. Always attend your follow-up appointments so your doctor can check your kidney function and potassium levels.
Do not take with ACE inhibitors like lisinopril, enalapril, or ramipril — you must stop these for at least 36 hours before starting this medicine. Avoid potassium supplements or salt substitutes that contain potassium, as this drug already raises potassium levels. Avoid drinking alcohol as it can make your blood pressure drop dangerously low.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Sacubitril; with your other drugs?
This medicine is NOT safe during pregnancy — it can cause serious harm or death to your unborn baby, especially in the second and third trimesters. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, do not take this drug and talk to your doctor immediately.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it in your car or near a window. Keep it in its original pack and far from the reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
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Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Sacubitril; Valsartan?
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