RANEXA

Do not use Ranexa in people with the following conditions:

• Hypersensitivity
• Liver Impairment: Ranolazine is metabolized in the liver, so individuals with moderate to severe liver impairment should not use ranolazine, as it may further compromise liver function or increase the risk of side effects. Dose adjustments or alternative treatment options may be necessary in such cases.
• Strong CYP3A Inhibitors: Ranolazine is metabolized by the liver enzyme CYP3A, and the concomitant use of strong CYP3A inhibitors can significantly increase ranolazine blood levels, leading to an increased risk of adverse effects. Medications such as ketoconazole, clarithromycin, and grapefruit juice are examples of strong CYP3A inhibitors. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking to ensure safe use of ranolazine.
• QT Prolongation: Ranolazine has the potential to prolong the QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which can lead to a serious heart rhythm disorder called torsades de pointes. Individuals with a history of QT prolongation, certain heart rhythm disorders, or taking medications known to prolong the QT interval should exercise caution or avoid the use of ranolazine.
• Pre-existing Advanced Liver Disease: Individuals with pre-existing advanced liver disease, such as cirrhosis, should avoid the use of ranolazine, as it may exacerbate liver dysfunction or lead to further complications.

It is important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of contraindications for ranolazine. Always consult with your healthcare provider or pharmacist for personalized advice based on your specific medical history and conditions. They can provide guidance on whether ranolazine is appropriate for you or suggest alternative treatment options if needed.

Ranexa may have the following side effects:

• Dizziness: Dizziness is a common side effect of ranolazine and can occur in some individuals. It is recommended to avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, if you experience dizziness.
• Headache: Headache is another commonly reported side effect of ranolazine. It is usually mild and transient, but if it persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider.
• Nausea: Some individuals may experience nausea or an upset stomach while taking ranolazine. Taking the medication with food may help alleviate this side effect.
• Constipation: Ranolazine has been associated with constipation in some individuals. Maintaining a healthy diet with adequate fiber intake and drinking plenty of fluids can help prevent or alleviate constipation.
• Fatigue: Fatigue or tiredness may occur as a side effect of ranolazine. If you experience excessive fatigue or if it affects your daily activities, it is important to discuss this with your healthcare provider.
• QT Interval Prolongation: Ranolazine has the potential to prolong the QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which can increase the risk of abnormal heart rhythms. Regular monitoring of the QT interval may be necessary, especially in individuals at higher risk for QT prolongation.

Keep in mind that your physician has recommended this drug since he or she has known that the advantage to you is more noteworthy than the risk of adverse reactions. Many individuals utilizing this medicine don’t have serious side effects.

A serious allergy to this medication is uncommon. In any case, seek emergency medical help if you see any manifestations of a serious allergic response, including a rash, tingling or swelling particularly of the face or tongue or throat, dizziness or difficulty in breathing.

This is not a complete list of side effects. If you see other effects not recorded above, contact your physician or pharmacist.

Precautions

Take extra caution in patients with the following medical conditions:

• Heart Conditions: Ranolazine is primarily used to treat chronic angina, a condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort due to reduced blood flow to the heart. It is important to inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing heart conditions or other cardiovascular problems you may have, as ranolazine’s safety and efficacy in these conditions may vary.
• Kidney Impairment: Individuals with moderate to severe kidney impairment may require dosage adjustments or alternative treatment options. This is because the elimination of ranolazine from the body may be delayed in individuals with impaired kidney function. Consult your healthcare provider for appropriate dosing recommendations.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: The safety of ranolazine during pregnancy and breastfeeding has not been established. It is important to discuss the potential risks and benefits of using ranolazine with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, or if you are breastfeeding.
• Alcohol: It is advisable to avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking ranolazine, as it may increase the risk of dizziness and other side effects.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Ranolazine can cause dizziness or fatigue in some individuals. If you experience these side effects, it is important to avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you know how the medication affects you.

Prior to taking this medicine, tell your physician or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, or if you have some other hypersensitivities. This drug may contain inert ingredients which can cause unfavorable side effects or different issues. Talk with your pharmacist for more information.

Interactions

Ranexa may interact with the following medicines:

• CYP3A Inhibitors: Ranolazine is metabolized by the CYP3A enzyme in the liver. Drugs that inhibit this enzyme, such as certain antifungal medications (ketoconazole, itraconazole) and certain antibiotics (clarithromycin, erythromycin), can increase the levels of ranolazine in the body. This can lead to an increased risk of side effects. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dosage of ranolazine if you are taking these medications.
• CYP3A Inducers: Drugs that induce the CYP3A enzyme, such as rifampin, phenytoin, and St. John’s wort, can decrease the levels of ranolazine in the body. This may reduce the effectiveness of ranolazine. Your healthcare provider may need to monitor your response to ranolazine and adjust the dosage if you are taking these medications.
• QT Prolonging Drugs: Ranolazine has the potential to prolong the QT interval on an electrocardiogram (ECG), which can increase the risk of abnormal heart rhythms. Taking ranolazine with other medications that also have this effect, such as certain antiarrhythmics (amiodarone, quinidine) or certain antipsychotics (haloperidol, ziprasidone), can further increase the risk of QT prolongation. Your healthcare provider may need to monitor your ECG and adjust your medication regimen accordingly.
• Grapefruit Juice: Consuming grapefruit juice while taking ranolazine may increase the levels of ranolazine in the body and increase the risk of side effects. It is generally recommended to avoid grapefruit juice or discuss this with your healthcare provider.
• Other Medications: Ranolazine may interact with other medications, such as calcium channel blockers, beta-blockers, diuretics, and antiarrhythmics. Your healthcare provider will consider these potential interactions and adjust your medication regimen as needed.

Inform your physician about the drugs you take including over-the-counter medications, prescribed drugs, supplements and vitamins.

This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Approach your physician or pharmacist for more details.

The effects of certain medications can change if you consume different medications or herbal products simultaneously. This can build your risk for side effects or may cause your drugs not to work effectively. These interactions are conceivable, yet don’t generally happen. Your physician or pharmacist can prevent or oversee interactions by changing how you utilize your prescriptions or by close checking.

While utilizing this drug, don’t start, stop, or change the dose of other medicines you are using without your physician’s advice.

If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor right away.

Available Brands:

• Ranexa