Ivabrad

Product Overview

Ivabrad is a medication containing the active ingredient Ivabradine. It is a selective inhibitor of the If current in the sinoatrial node, resulting in a reduction in heart rate. This medication is commonly used to treat chronic stable angina pectoris and heart failure. Ivabrad works by slowing down the heart rate, which reduces the workload on the heart and improves its efficiency in pumping blood to the body.

Uses

Ivabrad is primarily used to treat chronic stable angina pectoris, a condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort caused by reduced blood flow to the heart muscle. It is also indicated for the treatment of heart failure with reduced ejection fraction in patients who are in sinus rhythm with a resting heart rate of 70 beats per minute or higher. It helps improve exercise tolerance and reduce the frequency of angina episodes in patients with stable angina, as well as reduce the risk of hospitalization for worsening heart failure.

How to Use

Ivabrad tablets should be taken orally with food, preferably at the same time each day, to ensure consistent blood levels of the medication. The dosage of it should be individualized based on the patient’s heart rate and tolerability. It is important to follow the dosage instructions provided by the healthcare provider and not to exceed the recommended dose. Do not abruptly stop taking it without consulting a healthcare professional, as this may lead to rebound tachycardia or worsening of symptoms.

How it Works

Ivabrad works by selectively inhibiting the If current in the sinoatrial node of the heart, which is responsible for generating the heart’s electrical impulses. By blocking this current, Ivabrad slows down the heart rate without affecting the strength of the heart’s contractions. This reduction in heart rate decreases myocardial oxygen demand and improves myocardial perfusion, leading to symptomatic relief in patients with angina and heart failure.

Dosage and Administration

The recommended starting dose of Ivabrad for chronic stable angina is 5 mg twice daily, which may be increased to a maximum dose of 7.5 mg twice daily based on heart rate and tolerability. For heart failure, the initial dose is 2.5 mg twice daily, with titration to a maximum dose of 7.5 mg twice daily over several weeks. Ivabrad should be used with caution in patients with bradycardia, hypotension, or liver impairment, as dose adjustments may be necessary.

Benefits

The benefits of Ivabrad include its ability to effectively reduce heart rate, improve exercise tolerance, and alleviate symptoms of angina and heart failure. By lowering heart rate, Ivabrad reduces the risk of adverse cardiovascular events and hospitalizations in patients with chronic stable angina and heart failure. Ivabrad is generally well tolerated and can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other medications for cardiovascular disease management.

Common Side Effects

Common side effects associated with the use of Ivabrad may include bradycardia (slow heart rate), luminous phenomena (visual brightness), and phosphenes (visual sensations of light). Other common side effects may include dizziness, fatigue, and headache. These side effects are usually mild to moderate in severity and often resolve with continued use of the medication. However, some individuals may experience more serious side effects such as atrial fibrillation, conduction disturbances, or symptomatic hypotension.

Warnings

Ivabrad should be used with caution in patients with pre-existing bradycardia, sick sinus syndrome, or conduction defects, as it may exacerbate these conditions. It is contraindicated in patients with acute decompensated heart failure, severe hepatic impairment, or resting heart rate below 60 beats per minute. Patients should be advised to avoid activities that require sudden changes in heart rate or prolonged physical exertion while taking it. Regular monitoring of heart rate and blood pressure is recommended during it’s therapy.

Storage Information

Ivabrad tablets should be stored at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F), away from moisture and heat. It is important to keep it out of reach of children and pets. Do not store Ivabrad in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink, as moisture and humidity may affect its stability. If the medication is outdated or no longer needed, it should be disposed of properly according to local regulations.

Disclaimer:

Our sole intention is to ensure that its consumers get information that is expert-reviewed, accurate, and trustworthy. However, the information contained herein should NOT be used as a substitute for the advice of a qualified physician. The information provided here is for informational purposes only. This may not cover all possible side effects, drug interactions, or warnings or alerts. Please consult your doctor and discuss all your queries related to any disease or medicine. We intend to support, not replace, the doctor-patient relationship.