Information about Ranexa (Ranolazine)
Ranexa, containing the active ingredient ranolazine, is an oral medication primarily used for the management of chronic angina pectoris (chest pain). It works by enhancing blood flow to the heart, thereby reducing the frequency and severity of angina episodes. Unlike traditional anti-anginal drugs, ranolazine does not primarily affect heart rate or blood pressure, making it a unique option for patients who do not respond well to other medications.
Product Highlights
- Ranexa is mainly indicated for the long-term management of angina. It helps reduce the frequency and severity of chest pain episodes in patients with chronic stable angina.
- Ranexa is often used in combination with other anti-anginal medications (e.g., beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers) for enhanced control of angina symptoms.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Ranexa is specifically designed to reduce the frequency and intensity of angina episodes in patients with chronic angina.
- Unlike other anti-anginal medications, ranolazine does not significantly affect heart rate or blood pressure, making it a good option for patients who have difficulty tolerating other treatments.
- Ranexa can be used in combination with other anti-anginal drugs, providing more comprehensive management of angina.
- Ranexa is taken orally in tablet form, making it convenient for patients to manage their condition.
Direction of Use
- Oral tablets
- The usual starting dose of Ranexa is 500 mg twice daily, which may be increased to 1,000 mg twice daily based on the patient's response. The dosage may vary depending on the patient’s condition and other medications they are taking.
- The tablets should be taken whole and may be taken with or without food. It is essential to take Ranexa exactly as prescribed, without exceeding the recommended dose.
- Regular monitoring may be necessary, particularly for patients on other medications that interact with Ranexa or those with preexisting liver or kidney issues.
Safety Concerns
- Common side effects
- Dizziness and headache
- Nausea or constipation
- Peripheral edema (swelling of the legs or feet)
- Fatigue
Serious side effects
- Ranexa can cause an abnormal heart rhythm, particularly in patients with existing heart conditions, increasing the risk of a dangerous arrhythmia.
- Liver enzyme elevations may occur, which could indicate liver damage.
- Caution is needed when prescribing Ranexa to patients with renal impairment, as the drug is metabolized through the kidneys.
- These symptoms can indicate an adverse reaction or low blood pressure.
Drug interactions
- Ranexa interacts with drugs that affect liver enzymes (e.g., CYP3A4 inhibitors), which can lead to increased blood levels of ranolazine and a higher risk of side effects.
- Caution is advised when used with other medications that affect heart rhythm or those that can lead to low blood pressure.
- Should not be used with certain medications, such as strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole), as they can increase the concentration of ranolazine in the blood.
Avoid Ranexa (Ranolazine) If
- Ranexa should be avoided in patients with severe hepatic impairment, as it may further impair liver function.
- Patients with severe renal dysfunction should avoid Ranexa or use it under strict medical supervision.
- Patients with a history of QT prolongation or other significant heart rhythm disorders should avoid using Ranexa due to the risk of worsening arrhythmias.
- Those with a known hypersensitivity to ranolazine or any of its components should not take this medication.
