Ranexa

Generic name: Ranolazine

What is Ranexa?

Ranexa is used in adults for the treatment of chronic angina. It is sometimes used in combination with beta-blockers, nitrates, calcium channel blockers, anti-platelet therapy, lipid-lowering therapy, ACE inhibitors, and angiotensin receptor blockers.

What is the most important information I should know about Ranexa?

Ranexa may cause QT interval prolongation, an irregularity of the electrical activity within the heart.

Who should not take Ranexa?

Do not take Ranexa if you are taking any of the following drugs: carbamazepine, clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin, rifabutin, rifapentin, ritonavir, saquinavir, and St. John's wort. In addition, do not take Ranexa if you have problems with your liver.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Ranexa?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Ranexa. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, have liver or kidney problems, if you have a history or family history of QTc prolongation or congenital long QT syndrome, are taking drugs that prolong the QTc interval (eg, quinidine, dofetilide, sotalol, amiodarone, erythromycin, thioridazine, ziprasidone), or if you are taking any of the following drugs: carbamazepine, clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin, rifabutin, rifapentin, ritonavir, saquinavir, and St. John's wort.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: The usual dosage of Ranexa is 500 milligrams (mg) twice a day, which may be increased to 1000 mg twice a day as needed.

How should I take Ranexa?

Ranexa may be taken with or without food. Do not crush, break, or chew the tablets.

What should I avoid while taking Ranexa?

While taking Ranexa, you should avoid treatment with carbamazepine, clarithromycin, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin, rifabutin, rifapentin, ritonavir, saquinavir, and St. John's wort. Also, avoid eating or drinking any grapefruit-containing products.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Ranexa?

If Ranexa is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Ranexa with the following: aprepitant, carbamazepine, clarithromycin, cyclosporine, diltiazem, erythromycin, fluconazole, grapefruit juice or grapefruit-containing products, indinavir, itraconazole, ketoconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, phenobarbital, phenytoin, rifampin, rifabutin, rifapentin, ritonavir, saquinavir, St. John's wort, and verapamil

What are the possible side effects of Ranexa?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: dizziness, nausea, weakness, constipation, headache

Can I receive Ranexa if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Ranexa on pregnancy have not been adequately studied. It is important to notify your physician if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant prior to beginning therapy with Ranexa.

It is not known if Ranexa is found in breast milk. You should not breastfeed while on therapy with Ranexa.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Ranexa?

If you miss a dose of Ranexa, skip the dose you missed and take your next dose at your regular scheduled time. Do not take a double dose.

How should I store Ranexa?

Store Ranexa at room temperature.