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, Dizziness, Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk), Palpitations, Gastrointestinal ulcer, Eye ulcer, Skin ulcer, Hypotension (low blood pressure), Tachycardia, General discomfort, Paresthesia (tingling or pricking sensation), Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin), Liver dysfunction, Increased potassium level in blood, Ringing in ear
Available Medicine for Nicorandil
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 which requires concentration until you know how it affects you.
- Do not consume alcohol while taking Nicorandil as that may cause increased dizziness.
- Do not take medications like sildenafil or tadalafil (prescribed for erectile dysfunction) while on treatment with Nicorandil as it may cause low blood pressure.
- Inform your doctor if you notice any bleeding from the anal 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 (heart-related 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 of taking the medicine, but full benefits may be seen only after 4 to 5 days.