How does Ivabradine work?
Ivabradine mainly works by reducing the heart rate by a few beats per minute. This lowers the hearts’ need for oxygen.
It is important to continue conservative measures while taking ivabradine:
- Drink at least 1.5 – 2 litres of water before 2pm
- Physical counter manoeuvres (tightening lower limb muscles) for acute symptom relief
Weaning Ivabradine
It is important not to discontinue Ivabradine abruptly. It must be weaned under medical supervision, please ensure this is done by your GP or in the Falls and Syncope Unit.
Ivabradine tablets are not intended for use in children and adolescents younger than 18 years.
It is unknown whether Ivabradine causes harm to an unborn child.
Please notify your doctor
- If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant or are breast-feeding.
- If you are taking prescription or non-prescription drugs, herbal preparations, or dietary supplements.
Avoid grapefruit juice during treatment with Ivabradine Tablets.
Side-effects:
Like all medicines, this medicine can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. If you experience the following serious side effect stop taking Ivabradine and seek medical help immediately.
- Rash, swollen face, tongue or throat, difficulty in breathing or swallowing
A commonly reported side effect of Ivabradine to be aware of:
- Luminous visual phenomena (brief moments of increased brightness)
- They can also be described as a halo, coloured flashes, image decomposition or multiple images
- They generally occur within the first two months of treatment after which they may occur repeatedly and resolve during or after treatment
Driving and using machines when taking Ivabradine
Ivabradine may cause temporary brightness in vision. If this happens to you, be careful when driving or using machines at times when there could be sudden changes in light intensity, especially when driving at night.
Please ensure you read the medication information leaflet carefully prior to taking it.
Secretary Tel: 0191 445 3843