What is Ranolazine?

Ranolazine is a medication used to treat chronic angina (long-term chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart). It is usually prescribed together with other heart medications such as:

• Beta-blockers
• Calcium channel blockers
• ACE inhibitors
• Nitrates
• Antiplatelet agents
• Cholesterol-lowering medications

Ranolazine helps improve blood flow efficiency in the heart and reduces episodes of chest pain.

Important Precautions

• Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
• Do not crush, break, or chew extended-release tablets or granules.
• This medicine is not intended for sudden chest pain attacks.
• Regular medical follow-up and blood tests may be needed during long-term treatment.

Drug & Food Interactions

Ranolazine interacts with many medications and supplements.

Important medicines that may interact:

• Clarithromycin
• Ketoconazole
• Rifampin
• Phenytoin
• Carbamazepine
• Ritonavir
• Verapamil
• Diltiazem
• Digoxin
• Warfarin

Herbal supplements to avoid or use cautiously:

• St. John’s Wort
• Garlic
• Ginkgo
• Ginseng

Avoid:

• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice
• Excess alcohol (especially with extended-release granules)

Always tell your doctor about all prescription medicines, OTC drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements you are taking.

Patients Requiring Extra Caution

Use cautiously in patients with:

• Heart rhythm disorders (QT prolongation)
• Severe kidney disease
• Liver problems

Important:

Ranolazine should not be used in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Serious Side Effects – Seek Medical Help Immediately

Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
• Fainting or severe dizziness
• Chest tightness
• Swelling of face, hands, or legs
• Blood in urine
• Trouble breathing
• Seizures
• Severe weakness or confusion
• Signs of kidney problems (reduced urination, swelling, rapid weight gain)

Common Side Effects

Some patients may experience:

• Dizziness
• Constipation
• Nausea
• Dry mouth
• Stomach discomfort
• Headache
• Fatigue

Proper Use

• Can be taken with or without food.
• Swallow extended-release tablets whole.
• If using granules, follow preparation instructions carefully.
• If a dose is missed, skip it and continue the regular schedule.
• Do not double doses.

Usual Adult Dose for Chronic Angina

• Starting dose: 500 mg twice daily
• Maximum dose: 1000 mg twice daily

Monitoring

Your doctor may monitor:

• Heart rhythm (ECG/QT interval)
• Kidney function
• Liver function
• Blood pressure and response to treatment

Patient Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Ranolazine should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare provider. Do not start, stop, or change your medication without consulting your doctor or pharmacist. Seek immediate medical attention if you experience severe dizziness, irregular heartbeat, fainting, allergic reactions, or worsening chest pain.