Hefcard 100 Tablet

HEFCARD 100 TABLET

HEFCARD 100 TABLET, manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd., is a combination medication primarily used for the management of chronic heart failure. This medication is often referred to by its active ingredient combination: Sacubitril/Valsartan.

Composition

Each HEFCARD 100 TABLET contains two active ingredients:

• Sacubitril: 49 mg
• Valsartan: 51 mg

This combination acts as an Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor (ARNi).

Uses

HEFCARD 100 TABLET is prescribed for adults with chronic heart failure, specifically those with reduced ejection fraction, which means the heart's left ventricle doesn't pump blood effectively. It aims to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalizations due to worsening heart failure. Additionally, it may be used for hypertension management and cardiovascular protection.

Dosage and Administration

The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water, and it can be taken with or without food. It is crucial not to crush, chew, or split the tablets. Dosage and duration of treatment are determined by a healthcare provider based on the patient's condition. It is recommended to take the medicine at the same time each day, and if a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered, unless it's almost time for the next dose.

Side Effects

Common side effects include:

• Low blood pressure (hypotension)
• Dizziness, light-headedness, fainting
• Increased potassium levels (hyperkalemia)
• Cough
• Tiredness or weakness
• Headache
• Nausea, diarrhea, stomach pain
• Kidney function impairment

Serious side effects, though rare, can include angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, leading to breathing difficulties).

Precautions

• Allergies: Contraindicated if allergic to sacubitril, valsartan, or any inactive ingredients.
• Angioedema: Should not be taken by individuals with a history of angioedema.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Not recommended during pregnancy, especially after the first three months, as it can harm the unborn baby. It is also not recommended for breastfeeding women.
• Kidney and Liver Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney disease, severe kidney disease, or liver impairment. Regular monitoring of kidney function, blood pressure, and potassium levels is essential.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all other medications, especially other heart medications, ACE inhibitors (like enalapril, lisinopril), Aliskiren (in diabetics or those with impaired kidney function), potassium supplements, or sildenafil.
• Alcohol: Avoid alcohol consumption due to increased dizziness.
• Driving: May cause dizziness, so caution is advised when driving or operating machinery.

Storage

Store HEFCARD 100 TABLET at room temperature, ideally below 30°C. Keep it away from moisture, direct sunlight, and out of reach of children and pets. Store in the original package to protect it from light and moisture.

HEFCARD 100 TABLET is a prescription medication used to treat chronic heart failure. It combines two active ingredients, sacubitril and valsartan, which work together to improve heart function and reduce the risk of hospitalization and cardiovascular death in adults with certain types of heart failure.

Here are some frequently asked questions about HEFCARD 100 TABLET:

What is HEFCARD 100 TABLET used for?

HEFCARD 100 TABLET is primarily used to treat chronic heart failure in adults, specifically heart failure with reduced ejection fraction. It helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization, improve heart function, alleviate symptoms like shortness of breath and fatigue, and decrease swelling in the feet and ankles. It may also be used to manage hypertension (high blood pressure) and provide cardiovascular protection.

How does HEFCARD 100 TABLET work?

HEFCARD 100 TABLET contains two active ingredients: sacubitril and valsartan. Sacubitril is a neprilysin inhibitor that increases levels of beneficial natriuretic peptides in the body, which help widen blood vessels, reduce fluid retention, and decrease the workload on the heart. Valsartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) that blocks the action of angiotensin II, a hormone that constricts blood vessels and promotes salt and water retention. By blocking angiotensin II, valsartan relaxes blood vessels, lowers blood pressure, and reduces the heart's workload. This dual mechanism helps to improve heart function and manage heart failure.

What is the usual dosage for HEFCARD 100 TABLET?

The dosage of HEFCARD 100 TABLET is determined by your doctor based on your medical condition. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and can be taken with or without food. Do not crush, chew, or split the tablets. Consistency in how you take the medication (always with food or always without) can help maintain stable blood levels.

What are the possible side effects of HEFCARD 100 TABLET?

Common side effects of HEFCARD 100 TABLET include low blood pressure (hypotension), dizziness, elevated potassium levels (hyperkalemia), cough, headache, tiredness, nausea, and diarrhea. Less common but serious side effects can include angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), which requires immediate medical attention.

Is HEFCARD 100 TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, HEFCARD 100 TABLET is generally not recommended for use during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester (more than 3 months pregnant), as it can cause serious harm to the unborn baby. It is also not recommended for use in breastfeeding women due to potential risks to the baby. Adequate contraceptive measures should be taken to prevent pregnancy while on this medication.

Can HEFCARD 100 TABLET be taken with other medications?

HEFCARD 100 TABLET can interact with several medications. It is crucial to inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

• ACE Inhibitors: Concurrent use with ACE inhibitors is not recommended and should be avoided due to an increased risk of angioedema. A washout period of at least 36 hours is typically required between stopping an ACE inhibitor and starting HEFCARD 100 TABLET.
• Aliskiren: Combining with aliskiren (used for high blood pressure) is not recommended, especially in patients with diabetes or kidney impairment, due to increased risks of kidney problems and high potassium levels.
• Potassium-Sparing Diuretics or Potassium Supplements: These can increase the risk of high potassium levels when taken with HEFCARD 100 TABLET.
• NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs): NSAIDs may reduce the effectiveness of HEFCARD 100 TABLET and can worsen kidney function, particularly in individuals with pre-existing kidney issues.
• Lithium: HEFCARD 100 TABLET may increase lithium levels, which can be harmful.
• Other Antihypertensive Medications: Using other blood pressure-lowering medications with HEFCARD 100 TABLET may further reduce blood pressure.

What precautions should be taken?

Inform your doctor if you have a history of angioedema, severe liver disease, severe kidney disease, low blood pressure, dehydration, or if you are taking medications like aliskiren. Regular monitoring of kidney function and potassium levels is often advised. Limit or avoid alcohol consumption, as it may intensify side effects like dizziness. Avoid driving or operating machinery if you experience dizziness or tiredness.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of HEFCARD 100 TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a forgotten tablet.

How should HEFCARD 100 TABLET be stored?

Store HEFCARD 100 TABLET as directed on the packaging, typically at room temperature (below 30°C). Keep it away from moisture, direct sunlight, and out of the reach of children.