Why It’s Important To Take This Medication?
Ivabradine (Lancora™) is a new drug that has been approved for the treatment of heart failure. It has been shown to help people with heart failure live longer, feel better and lower the need to be hospitalized to treat heart failure. It is meant to be used in addition to other classes of medication that are useful in heart failure.
Action Of Ivabradine
Ivabradine is a new class of medication. It works by slowing the heart rate. It has no other effects on the heart or blood vessels. It acts only on the sinus node, which is the body’s own natural pacemaker. The sinus node sets the heart rate. Ivabradine affects channels in the sinus node and cause it to fire more slowly. It is only used in patients in sinus rhythm who have a resting heart rate of 70 beats per minute or faster.
How Ivabradine Should Be Taken?
Ivabradine is a tablet that is taken twice a day. It can be taken with or without food. It should be taken the same times each day. It is used with other medications to treat heart failure.
It comes in three different strengths. It is started at a low dose and is usually increased over a few weeks by your health care provider.
The Most Common Side Effects Of Ivabradine Include:
- Dizziness due to a very slow heart rate
- Feeling fatigued or tired
- Vision problems like seeing flashes of light (called phosphenes) or halos
Severe Side Effects May Include:
Call your health care provider immediately if you develop any of these side effects:
- Feeling like you might faint or pass out
- Feeling very weak
- Developing atrial fibrillation (a fast irregular heart beat)
What Should I Remember While Taking This Medication?
- To avoid getting dizzy, stand up slowly from a sitting position or when lying down.
- Tell your health care provider or pharmacist of any prescription and non-prescription medications you are taking, including vitamins/minerals and herbal supplements.
What Should I Do If I Miss A Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for the next dose, skip the dose you missed. Take the next dose at the regular time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time. If you are unsure of what to do, speak to your health care provider or pharmacist.