NICORANDIL
Background and Date of Approval
Nicorandil is an anti-anginal drug developed by the U.S. Food And Drug Administration and initially approved for treating unstable angina (heart-related chest pain).
Uses
Nicorandil is used to treat unstable angina, a condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort due to reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
How is it administered?
Nicorandil can be administered only as an intravenous injection into a vein by your physician in a hospital setting. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition.
Side Effects
The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Nicorandil are headache, lightheadedness, numbness, nausea, vomiting, stomach discomfort, and anaemia. Some serious side effects include a decrease in blood pressure, an increase in heart rate, and changes in liver functions.
Warnings
This drug may cause gastrointestinal ulcers. Inform your doctor if you have a history of ulcers or if you experience symptoms such as abdominal pain or discomfort. There is no safety data on this drug during pregnancy and breastfeeding. Hence it is not recommended to administer Nicorandil. Consult your doctor before using this medication if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
Precautions
Nicorandil should not be taken by individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to the medication or any of its components. Individuals with kidney or liver problems may require special monitoring while taking this drug. Adjustments to the dosage may be necessary based on your kidney and liver function. Patients with symptoms of dehydration should not take this drug. This medicine can affect electrolyte levels, particularly potassium. Individuals with imbalances in potassium or other electrolytes should be monitored closely while taking this medication.
Word of Advice
Nicorandil can cause a drop in blood pressure, leading to dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting, especially when standing up. Use caution when getting up from a sitting or lying position.
References
Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd., [Revised on May 2014] [Accessed on 19th August 2023], https://www.torrentian.com/pisheet/Upload/PI_Sheet/174.pdf Bertram G. Katzung, Vasodilators & the Treatment of Angina Pectoris, Langeâs Basic & Clinical Pharmacology, 14th Edition, 2018, 194-211. Thomas Eschenhagen, Treatment of Ischemic Heart Disease, Goodman & Glimanâs Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, 13th Edition, 2018, 489-506.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Nicorandil be used for other conditions besides angina?
Nicorandil is primarily indicated for angina. It's not recommended to use this drug for other conditions without consulting a doctor.
Who should not take Nicorandil?
Nicorandil is contraindicated in individuals who have severe low blood pressure, have had a recent heart attack, have severe anemia, have certain heart conditions, or have experienced serious side effects from nitrate medications.
Can Nicorandil be used during pregnancy and breastfeeding?
The safety of Nicorandil during pregnancy and breastfeeding is not well-established. Consult your doctor before using this drug in these situations.
Are there any common side effects of Nicorandil?
Common side effects of Nicorandil may include headaches, dizziness, flushing, and nausea. These side effects are usually temporary and tend to improve with time.
Can Nicorandil interact with other medications?
Nicorandil can interact with certain medications, including nitrates, certain blood pressure medications, and phosphodiesterase inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil). Inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid such interactions.