Valsartan/Hydrochlorothiazide Combination in Hypertensive Patients Not Controlled With Valsartan Alone

Comparison of the Combination of Valsartan 320 mg Plus Hydrochlorothiazide 12.5 mg and Valsartan 320 mg Plus Hydrochlorothiazide 25 mg to Valsartan 320 mg in Mild to Moderate Hypertensive Patients Not Adequately Controlled With Valsartan 320 mg

This study will test the effectiveness and safety of a combination treatment in patients whose blood pressure is not controlled with a single medication.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Patients with mild to moderate hypertension

Exclusion Criteria:

• Severe hypertension
• History of stroke, myocardial infarction, heart failure, chest pain, abnormal heart rhythm
• Liver, kidney, or pancreas disease
• Insulin dependent diabetes
• Allergy to certain medications used to treat high blood pressure

Other protocol-defined exclusion criteria may apply.