Indications
- Used to treat heart failure in adults to prevent worsening and hospitalization.
- Also used in children with heart failure from enlarged heart (dilated cardiomyopathy).
- Heart failure is when the heart pumps blood less effectively.
- Ivabradine slows the heart rate to improve heart function.
Dosage and administration
- Read the Medication Guide provided by your pharmacist before starting ivabradine and with each refill.
- Direct any questions to your doctor or pharmacist.
- Take orally with food as instructed by your doctor, usually twice daily.
- Dosage is determined by your medical condition and response to treatment; in children, it’s also based on weight.
- Your doctor may advise starting at a low dose and gradually increasing to reduce side effects.
- Other medications are typically used alongside ivabradine for heart failure treatment; follow your doctor’s instructions for all medications.
- If using the liquid form, follow the manufacturer’s Instructions for Use; use a special measuring device/spoon to ensure accurate dosing.
- Take regularly at the same times each day for optimal benefit.
- Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless advised otherwise by your doctor or pharmacist, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
- Inform your doctor if your condition doesn’t improve or worsens.
Side effects
- Dizziness or tiredness may occur; inform your doctor or pharmacist if these effects persist or worsen.
- The medication is prescribed because its benefits outweigh the risks for most people.
- Ivabradine may rarely cause vision changes such as increased brightness or seeing halos or colored lights, triggered by sudden changes in light brightness. These effects typically start within the first 2 months and may resolve during treatment or after stopping the medication.
- Notify your doctor immediately if you experience serious side effects such as slow/fast/irregular heartbeat or fainting.
- Serious allergic reactions to this drug are rare but require immediate medical attention; symptoms include rash, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
- This list may not cover all possible side effects; contact your doctor or pharmacist if you notice any other effects not listed here.
Precautions
- Inform your doctor or pharmacist of any allergies to ivabradine or other substances.
- This medication may contain inactive ingredients that can trigger allergic reactions; consult your pharmacist for details.
- Disclose your medical history, especially low blood pressure, liver problems, and other heart conditions like sick sinus syndrome, heart block, or pacemaker use.
- Ivabradine may cause dizziness or vision changes; avoid activities requiring alertness or clear vision until you can do them safely. Be cautious when driving at night due to potential sudden changes in light brightness that may trigger vision changes.
- Limit alcohol and marijuana (cannabis) use, as they may increase dizziness.
- Before surgery, inform your doctor or dentist about all products you use, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal products.
- Notify your doctor if pregnant or planning pregnancy; reliable birth control should be used during ivabradine treatment to prevent harm to the unborn baby.
- It’s unknown if ivabradine passes into breast milk; breastfeeding is not recommended while using this medication due to potential risks to the infant. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.