Latest Post

Formula Drugs

Basic Protective Measures Against COVID-19

COVID-19 is a new strain of the common cold that has been p...

Ranolazine

Ranolazine

Where is Ranolazine used?

Ranolazine is a prescription used alone or with other medications for the treatment of angina pectoris. This condition is the most common type of angina and chest pain that results from decreased blood flow to the heart. Not enough blood flow means your heart muscle isn’t getting sufficient oxygen. The pain is frequently caused by physical activity or emotional stress.

This is a type of medicine called an anti-anginal medicine that blocks the late inward sodium in the heart cells. This sodium increases the calcium concentration inside of cardiac cells and increases muscle contraction. It also increases the energy usage of the heart muscle.  By blocking this sodium channel, the medicine improves the metabolism in ischemic heart cells, reducing damage to the heart muscle, and angina symptoms. Ranolazine is an FDA-approved extended-release tablet for oral use.

How does Ranolazine work?

Ranolazine progresses the blood flow to the heart as well as the oxygen supply to the heart. The angina pain is initiated by not enough oxygen reaching the heart once there is an increased heart rate and workload. This is usually a result of the hardening of the arteries that supply blood to the heart.   

This medication works in a slightly different way to other angina medicines. It is thought to work by decreasing the flow of sodium and calcium into the heart muscle cells. This allows the heart muscle to relax which improves its blood and oxygen supply. Therefore, this medication helps prevent angina attacks.

How is Ranolazine taken?

The recommended starting dose of this medication depends on your medical condition and response to the treatment. You must take the right dose, not more or less. Your doctor may give you a lower dose to start and eventually increase it. You should not stop taking this medication quickly without the consent of your doctor. It may cause another complication or may worsen your current condition. For the best benefit from this product, take it regularly.

Ranolazine is to be taken as directed by your doctor. Each dose may be taken with or without a meal. Each tablet will be taken by mouth with a full glass of water. Let your doctor know if your condition does not improve or if it gets worse.

What are the possible side effects of Ranolazine?

Common side effects:

  • Vomiting
  • Dizziness
  • Nausea
  • Constipation
  • Dry mouth
  • Stomach pain
  • Headache

What are the precautions in taking Ranolazine?

  • Inform your doctor if you are taking any other medications including vitamins or herbal supplements.
  • This may cause dizziness, confusion, or blurred vision that may affect if you operate machinery or you will be driving. You should not perform these activities until you know how this drug affects you and until you are sure you can do it safely.
  • This is not recommended for use in children under 18 years of age.
  • In pregnancy and breastfeeding women, this should not be given. If needed, consult your doctor first.
  • This medication should be used with caution in elderly people, those with heart failure, who weigh 60 kg or less, and those with a family history of an abnormal heart rhythm seen on a heart monitoring trace.