Why is this medication prescribed?

Corlanor (ivabradine) is a medication primarily prescribed for the treatment of chronic heart failure (CHF). Here are the main reasons why it is prescribed and how it should be used:

• Heart Failure: Corlanor is prescribed for patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) to reduce the risk of hospitalization due to worsening symptoms.
• Reducing Heart Rate: It works by specifically reducing the heart rate by inhibiting the funny current (If) in the sinoatrial node of the heart, which results in a lower heart rate without affecting blood pressure or myocardial contractility.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Corlanor should typically be used:

• Dosage: The usual starting dose of Corlanor is 5 mg taken orally twice daily with meals.
• Titration: The dose may be increased to 7.5 mg twice daily if tolerated and if further reduction in heart rate is necessary.
• Administration: Corlanor should be taken with food to enhance absorption.
• Monitoring: During treatment, heart rate and symptoms of heart failure should be regularly monitored to assess the effectiveness of the medication.
• Adherence: It is important to take Corlanor exactly as prescribed by the healthcare provider to achieve the best results.
• Interactions: Corlanor may interact with other medications, so it’s important to inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are currently taking.
• Side Effects: Common side effects may include bradycardia (low heart rate), hypertension, atrial fibrillation, and luminous phenomena (phosphenes).
• Precautions: Patients with severe hepatic impairment, certain heart conditions (e.g., acute decompensated heart failure, sick sinus syndrome, third-degree atrioventricular block), or those taking other medications that significantly reduce heart rate should use Corlanor with caution or avoid it altogether.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage and usage of Corlanor, and promptly report any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking this medication.

Other uses for this medicine

• Angina Pectoris: Corlanor has been investigated and sometimes used in the treatment of stable angina pectoris, particularly in patients with contraindications or intolerance to beta-blockers.
• Chronic Stable Coronary Artery Disease: It may be considered in patients with chronic stable coronary artery disease to reduce heart rate and symptoms.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Corlanor:

• Liver Function: Corlanor should be used with caution in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Liver function should be monitored regularly in these patients.
• Bradycardia: Corlanor can cause bradycardia (low heart rate), which can be severe in some cases. It should be used cautiously in patients with underlying bradycardia or heart block.
• Concomitant Medications: Caution is advised when Corlanor is used with other medications that can lower heart rate or influence cardiac conduction (e.g., beta-blockers, certain calcium channel blockers, other drugs affecting sinus node function).
• Visual Effects: Corlanor may cause luminous phenomena (phosphenes), particularly in the early stages of treatment. Patients should be informed about these potential visual disturbances.
• Pregnancy and Lactation: The safety of Corlanor in pregnancy and lactation has not been established. It should only be used if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus or infant.
• Electrolyte Imbalance: Corlanor should be used with caution in patients with electrolyte imbalances, as these can affect its efficacy and safety.
• Dizziness and Falls: Corlanor may cause dizziness or fainting due to its effects on heart rate. Patients should be cautious when standing up quickly and should avoid activities that require full alertness until they know how the medication affects them.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of heart rate and symptoms of heart failure is recommended during treatment with Corlanor to assess its effectiveness and detect any adverse effects early.

As always, it’s crucial to discuss any concerns or specific health conditions with your healthcare provider before starting Corlanor or any new medication. They can provide guidance tailored to your individual health needs and help minimize risks associated with its use.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

There are no specific dietary instructions that need to be followed with Corlanor. However, taking Corlanor with food can help improve its absorption. It’s generally recommended to take each dose with a meal or snack.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of Corlanor, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to the time of your next scheduled dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Corlanor (ivabradine) can cause various side effects, ranging from common to more serious ones. It’s important to be aware of these potential side effects and discuss any concerns with your healthcare provider. Here are some of the side effects associated with Corlanor:

Common Side Effects:

• Bradycardia (low heart rate): This is the most common side effect of Corlanor.
• Luminous phenomena (phosphenes): Patients may experience visual effects such as seeing flashes of light, particularly when first starting the medication.
• Hypertension (high blood pressure): Corlanor can sometimes cause an increase in blood pressure.
• Atrial fibrillation: This irregular heart rhythm can occur in some patients.
• Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded or dizzy may occur, especially when standing up quickly.

Less Common Side Effects:

• Heart block: Particularly in patients with pre-existing conduction abnormalities.
• Headache: Some patients may experience headaches.
• Nausea: Feeling sick to the stomach can occur in some cases.
• Diarrhea: This gastrointestinal symptom may occur.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or fatigued is a less common side effect.

Serious Side Effects (Rare, but Important to Monitor):

• Severe Bradycardia: In some cases, Corlanor may cause severe slowing of the heart rate.
• Liver Dysfunction: Rare cases of liver dysfunction have been reported; symptoms may include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or abdominal pain.
• Allergic Reactions: Allergic reactions to Corlanor are rare but possible; symptoms may include rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.

Patients should be monitored for these side effects, especially early in treatment or when the dose is changed. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, or symptoms that concern you, it’s important to contact your healthcare provider promptly.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding Corlanor and report any new symptoms or concerns during your treatment.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and Disposal of Corlanor:

• Storage: Store Corlanor tablets at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
• Container: Keep Corlanor in its original container or blister pack to protect it from light and moisture.
• Children and Pets: Keep Corlanor out of reach of children and pets.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose of Corlanor, seek emergency medical attention or contact a poison control center immediately.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms may include severe bradycardia (very low heart rate), dizziness, fainting, or other serious cardiac effects.
• Treatment: Treatment of Corlanor overdose may involve monitoring and supportive care to stabilize heart rate and blood pressure.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider will likely monitor your heart rate and symptoms regularly while you are taking Corlanor.
• Follow-up Visits: Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider to ensure Corlanor is working effectively and to monitor for any side effects.
• Medication Compliance: Take Corlanor exactly as prescribed. Do not adjust your dose or stop taking it without consulting your healthcare provider.
• Interaction with Grapefruit: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Corlanor, as it may interact with the medication.
• Driving and Machinery: Corlanor may cause dizziness or visual disturbances. Use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how Corlanor affects you.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Make sure all healthcare providers involved in your care are aware that you are taking Corlanor, including dentists and emergency medical personnel.
• Dietary Considerations: While there are no specific dietary restrictions with Corlanor, taking it with food may help improve its absorption.

Always keep a list of all medications you are taking, including Corlanor, and inform healthcare providers about them before starting any new medication or treatment. This helps ensure safe and effective management of your health conditions.