Nizacard 500 (Ranolazine Extended-Release Tablets 500 mg) Ranolazine Extended Release Tablets 500 mg

Who is this for?

Ranolazine is a heart medication that works by improving blood flow to the heart muscle, helping it get more oxygen even when the blood vessels are narrowed. It does this by changing how the heart uses energy, without significantly lowering your heart rate or blood pressure.

Inhibits the late phase of the inward sodium current in cardiac myocytes, reducing intracellular calcium overload and improving myocardial energy metabolism without affecting heart rate or blood pressure. This mechanism enhances cardiac efficiency and reduces ischemia-induced chest pain in patients with chronic angina.

Is Ranolazine safe to take with another drug?

Start with one 500 mg tablet twice a day (morning and evening). Your doctor may increase this to 1000 mg twice a day depending on how you respond. Swallow the tablet whole — do not crush, break, or chew it. You can take it with or without food, but avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Never take two tablets at once to make up for a missed dose.

• Dizziness or feeling lightheaded
• constipation (difficulty passing stool)
• nausea or feeling like you want to vomit
• headache
• general body weakness

Do not take ranolazine with ketoconazole or itraconazole (common antifungal drugs used in Nigeria) as they can dangerously increase ranolazine levels in your blood. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice as they can also increase the drug's effect and cause side effects. Tell your doctor if you are taking any heart medicines like amlodipine, diltiazem, or digoxin as doses may need adjustment.

Store at room temperature, away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so do not leave it in your car or near a window. Keep it in a cool, dry place and always out of reach of children.