Nicorandil
Information about Nicorandil
Nicorandil uses
Nicorandil is used in the treatment of Angina (heart-related chest pain).
How nicorandil works
Nicorandil is a vasodilator. It works by reducing the workload of the heart. As a result, heart muscle does not need as much blood and oxygen supply. This reduces the frequency and severity of angina attacks.
Common side effects of nicorandil
Headache, Nausea, Vomiting, Weakness, Dizziness, Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk)
Content Details
Last updated on:
20 Jun 2019 | 02:26 PM (IST)
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Expert advice for Nicorandil
- You must continue to take it as advised, usually for a long time.
- Nicorandil may cause headaches. Drink plenty of water and take a suitable painkiller. Inform your doctor if it does not go away.
- Nicorandil may cause dizziness or sleepiness. Do not drive or do anything requiring concentration until you know how it affects you.
- Do not consume alcohol while taking Nicorandil as that may cause increased dizziness.
- Do not take Nicorandil in combination with medicines that are used to treat erectile dysfunction (eg. sildenafil) or high blood pressure as that can cause a major drop in blood pressure.
- Inform your doctor if you notice any sign of ulceration such as bleeding from the back passage, blood in vomit or black stools.
Frequently asked questions for Nicorandil
Nicorandil
Q. What class of drug is Nicorandil and what is it used for?
Nicorandil belongs to a class of medicines known as “potassium channel openers”. It helps in the removal of potassium from the walls of arteries resulting in widening of the arteries. This decreases the workload of the heart to pump the blood. It also improves the blood and oxygen supply to your heart muscle. It is prescribed to patients of stable angina (chest pain) who cannot take other medicines (beta blockers, calcium channel antagonist) meant for angina.
Q. Can I stop taking Nicorandil?
No, you should not stop taking Nicorandil without speaking to your doctor first. If you stop Nicorandil suddenly, your anginal pain may recur. Talk to your doctor if you are experiencing any side effects.
Q. How long does it take Nicorandil to start working?
Nicorandil starts working after about an hour, but full benefits may be seen only after 4 to 5 days.
Q. For how long do I need to continue Nicorandil?
Continue taking your medicine for as long as your doctor tells you. Nicorandil is generally prescribed for a long term. You may even need to take it for the rest of your life.
Q. Who should not use Nicorandil?
People who are allergic to Nicorandil or any of its ingredients should avoid using this medicine. Also, patients who have heart problems such as cardiogenic shock or left ventricular failure with low filling pressure or cardiac decompensation or have a build-up of fluid in the lungs (pulmonary edema) should not use Nicorandil. Additionally, patients taking medicines to treat erectile dysfunction (such as sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil) or medicines to treat “pulmonary hypertension (such as riociguat) should not use the medication. Your blood pressure may be affected if these medicines are taken with Nicorandil or if you have low blood volume.
Q. Can I take Nicorandil if I am taking aspirin?
You should avoid taking Nicorandil and aspirin together. Taking the two medicines together increases the risk of ulcer or bleeding ulcer in mouth, stomach, or intestine. If you notice blood in your stool or vomit while using Nicorandil, consult your doctor immediately.
Q. Can Nicorandil affect my sex life?
No, Nicorandil does not affect your sex life. However, it is not recommended to take medicines used to treat erectile dysfunction (such as sildenafil or tadalafil) or premature ejaculation (such as vardenafil or dapoxetine) while taking Nicorandil. Taking them together can lead to a serious drop in your blood pressure.
Q. What if somebody accidentally takes excess of Nicorandil?
He or she should be taken to the hospital immediately. The person may experience signs of low blood pressure, which include feeling weak or dizzy. He or she may also experience irregular or fast heart beat.