Azmarda 50mg

AZMARDA 50MG

Name

• Brand Name: Azmarda 50mg
• Common Name: Sacubitril/Valsartan (Angiotensin Receptor Neprilysin Inhibitor - ARNI)

Composition

• Azmarda 50mg Tablet contains two active ingredients: Sacubitril and Valsartan. Specifically, the 50mg tablet contains Sacubitril 24mg and Valsartan 26mg.
• Sacubitril works by inhibiting an enzyme called neprilysin, which helps increase beneficial substances in the body that reduce fluid retention and improve blood flow. Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that blocks the action of a hormone causing blood vessel narrowing, thus relaxing and widening blood vessels.

Uses

Azmarda 50mg Tablet is primarily used for:

• Treating chronic heart failure in adults, particularly heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (NYHA Class II-IV).
• Reducing the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure.
• Improving heart function, easing symptoms like breathlessness, swelling, and fatigue, and improving overall survival in affected patients.

Dosage and Administration

• Azmarda 50mg Tablet should be taken as prescribed by your doctor, usually at the same time each day for maximum benefit.
• It can be taken with or without food.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water; do not chew, crush, or break it.
• The recommended starting dose for patients not currently taking an ACE inhibitor or ARB, or those on low doses, is 50 mg twice daily. The target dose is typically 200 mg twice daily.
• If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with the regular schedule. Do not take a double dose. Do not stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness, light-headedness (due to low blood pressure)
• Cough
• Headache
• Tiredness, weakness, fatigue
• Nausea
• Increased potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia), which can manifest as irregular heartbeat or muscle weakness
• Impaired renal function
• Diarrhea

Serious Side Effects:

• Angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat, causing breathing difficulties)
• Kidney damage/renal failure

Precautions

• Allergies: Do not take if allergic to sacubitril, valsartan, or any other ingredients.
• Pregnancy: Contraindicated during pregnancy, especially after the first 3 months, as it may cause serious harm to the unborn baby.
• Breastfeeding: Not recommended for use during breastfeeding.
• Kidney/Liver Disease: Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver disease. Not recommended for severe liver disease. Regular monitoring of kidney function may be required.
• Alcohol: Avoid consuming alcohol as it may increase the risk of dizziness and low blood pressure.
• Driving/Operating Machinery: May cause dizziness or tiredness, so avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if affected.
• Drug Interactions:
  • Do not take with Aliskiren (for high blood pressure), especially if you have diabetes or impaired kidney function.
  • Avoid taking with ACE inhibitors (e.g., enalapril, lisinopril, ramipril); a washout period of at least 36 hours is required after discontinuing an ACE inhibitor before starting Azmarda.
  • Inform your doctor about all other medications, including blood pressure medications (amlodipine, hydrochlorothiazide), diuretics (furosemide, spironolactone), NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen), anticoagulants (warfarin, apixaban), sildenafil, potassium supplements, and salt substitutes containing potassium.
• Other Warnings: Rise slowly from a sitting or lying position to reduce the risk of dizziness. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential.

Storage

• Store at room temperature (below 30ºC or between 10ºC to 25ºC).
• Keep in the original package to protect from light and moisture.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about AZMARDA 50MG:

What is AZMARDA 50MG used for?

AZMARDA 50MG is a medicine used to treat long-lasting (chronic) heart failure in adults and children above one year of age, especially those with reduced ejection fraction. It helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure.

How does AZMARDA 50MG work?

AZMARDA 50MG is a combination of two medicines, sacubitril and valsartan, which belong to a class of drugs called Angiotensin Receptor Neprilysin Inhibitors (ARNIs). Sacubitril works by inhibiting an enzyme called neprilysin, which increases the levels of certain natural substances in the body that help relax blood vessels and reduce blood volume. Valsartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) that works by blocking the effect of angiotensin II, a substance that tightens blood vessels. Together, these actions relax and widen blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the body and helping it retain less water.

What is the usual dosage of AZMARDA 50MG?

The dose and frequency of AZMARDA 50MG are determined by your doctor and may change depending on your condition and how you respond to the medicine. It can be taken with or without food, but it's best to take it at the same time each day for maximum benefit. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablet.

What are the possible side effects of AZMARDA 50MG?

Common side effects may include low blood pressure (hypotension), dizziness, cough, increased potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia), and impaired kidney function. Serious but rare side effects can include angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which may cause difficulty breathing).

Is AZMARDA 50MG safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, AZMARDA 50MG is unsafe to use during pregnancy as there is definite evidence of risk to the developing baby, and it is not recommended for use while breastfeeding.

Can AZMARDA 50MG be taken with other medications?

It is crucial to inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking. AZMARDA 50MG should not be taken with ACE inhibitors or Aliskiren (especially if you have diabetes or impaired kidney function). Caution is advised when taking potassium supplements or potassium-sparing medicines due to an increased risk of high potassium levels. Your doctor will assess potential interactions with other blood pressure or heart medications.

What precautions should be taken while on AZMARDA 50MG?

You should inform your doctor if you have liver, kidney, or heart problems, a history of angioedema, low blood pressure, or are dehydrated. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and kidney function will be advised by your doctor. It is recommended to avoid potassium supplements and potassium-rich foods while on this medication. To reduce the chances of feeling dizzy, rise slowly if sitting or lying down.

What happens if a dose of AZMARDA 50MG is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for the missed one.

How should AZMARDA 50MG be stored?

AZMARDA 50MG should be kept out of reach of children.