Sacu V 200

SACU V 200 by GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS LTD.

SACU V 200 is a prescription medication manufactured by Glenmark Pharmaceuticals Ltd. used in the management of heart failure.

• Name

  • Brand Name: SACU V 200
  • Common Name: Sacubitril and Valsartan

• Composition Each SACU V 200 tablet contains:

  • Sacubitril: 97 mg
  • Valsartan: 103 mg This combination is classified as an Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitor (ARNI), acting to simultaneously inhibit neprilysin through sacubitril and block the angiotensin II type-1 receptor via valsartan.

• Uses SACU V 200 is primarily used for the treatment of chronic heart failure in adults and children aged one year and older. It is particularly indicated for patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), including those in NYHA class II-IV. It helps to:

  • Reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization due to heart failure.
  • Improve heart function by relaxing and widening blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
  • Manage hypertension (high blood pressure) in patients with heart failure.

• Dosage and Administration SACU V 200 is taken orally, typically twice daily, with or without food, as advised by a doctor. The tablet should be swallowed whole and not chewed, crushed, or broken. Dosage is individualized and adjusted by a healthcare professional, usually starting with a lower dose and gradually increasing as tolerated. For adults, a common starting dose for sacubitril/valsartan is 49mg/51mg twice daily, with a target maintenance dose often being 97mg/103mg twice daily. For patients not currently on ACE inhibitors or ARBs, or taking low doses, a lower initial dose may be recommended. Pediatric dosing is based on body weight for children one year of age and older.

• Side Effects Common side effects may include:

  • Dizziness, light-headedness, or fainting (due to low blood pressure)
  • Cough
  • High potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia)
  • Nausea and diarrhea
  • Tiredness or weakness
  • Headache
  • Decreased renal function or increased creatinine levels

  Serious side effects can include:

  • Angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat), which can be life-threatening
  • Severe allergic reactions
  • Acute renal failure

• Precautions

  • Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: SACU V 200 is contraindicated during pregnancy, especially after the first trimester, as it can cause serious harm or death to the fetus. It is also not recommended for breastfeeding women.
  • Angioedema History: Do not take SACU V 200 if there is a history of angioedema related to prior ACE inhibitor or ARB therapy.
  • Drug Interactions:
    • ACE Inhibitors: Do not take SACU V 200 with ACE inhibitors (e.g., captopril, enalapril) due to an increased risk of angioedema. A 36-hour washout period is required when switching between an ACE inhibitor and SACU V 200.
    • Aliskiren: Concomitant use with aliskiren is contraindicated in patients with diabetes.
    • NSAIDs: Use with caution as NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen) can worsen kidney function.
    • Potassium-sparing diuretics: May increase the risk of hyperkalemia.
  • Medical Conditions: Use with caution in patients with kidney or liver problems. Dose adjustments may be necessary, and it is not recommended for severe liver disease. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels is essential.
  • Driving and Machinery: As the medicine can cause dizziness, patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until they know how it affects them.
  • Diet: A low-sodium and low-fat diet is advised. Avoid potassium-rich foods and supplements unless instructed by a doctor.

• Storage Store SACU V 200 in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight, at a temperature below 30°C. Keep it out of the sight and reach of children. Do not use the medicine after its expiry date.

Here are the most frequently asked questions about SACU V 200 Tablet, manufactured by GLENMARK PHARMACEUTICALS LTD., along with concise answers:

What is SACU V 200 Tablet used for?

SACU V 200 Tablet is primarily used to treat chronic heart failure in adults. It helps reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure, particularly in patients with reduced ejection fraction. It can also assist in managing high blood pressure in heart failure patients.

How does SACU V 200 Tablet work?

SACU V 200 Tablet is a combination medicine containing sacubitril and valsartan. Sacubitril is a neprilysin inhibitor that relaxes and widens blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood and promoting sodium excretion. Valsartan is an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) that blocks the effect of angiotensin II, a hormone that narrows blood vessels, thereby relaxing them and lowering blood pressure. Together, these actions improve heart function, reduce fluid retention, and lessen the strain on the heart.

What is the usual dosage of SACU V 200 Tablet?

The dosage of SACU V 200 Tablet is determined by your physician based on your medical condition. It can be taken with or without food, typically once or twice daily. The tablet should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not chewed, crushed, or broken. It's crucial not to exceed the recommended dose.

What are the possible side effects of SACU V 200 Tablet?

Common side effects include dizziness, light-headedness (low blood pressure), cough, nausea, diarrhea, weakness/tiredness, headache, and increased potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia). Some patients may also experience decreased renal function or signs of low red blood cells (anemia). Most side effects are mild and resolve over time, but you should consult your doctor if they persist or worsen.

Is SACU V 200 Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

SACU V 200 Tablet is not recommended for use in early pregnancy and must not be used after the first three months of pregnancy, as it can cause serious harm to the baby. It is also not recommended for use in breastfeeding women. Always consult your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Can SACU V 200 Tablet be taken with other medications?

It is crucial to inform your doctor about all medications you are taking. SACU V 200 Tablet should not be taken with ACE inhibitors (like enalapril, lisinopril, or ramipril) due to an increased risk of side effects; there should be a gap of at least 36 hours before or after taking an ACE inhibitor. Concomitant use with aliskiren (for high blood pressure) is also contraindicated, especially in patients with diabetes or impaired kidney function. Caution is advised with potassium supplements, potassium-sparing diuretics, NSAIDs, and certain other heart or blood pressure medications.

What precautions should be taken while using SACU V 200 Tablet?

Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems (it is contraindicated in severe liver disease), a history of hereditary angioedema (rapid swelling under the skin), or diabetes. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels is recommended. Due to potential dizziness, avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how the medicine affects you. Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to prevent dizziness caused by low blood pressure. Avoid potassium-rich foods and supplements unless advised by your doctor.

What happens if a dose of SACU V 200 Tablet is missed?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is 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 missed one.

How should SACU V 200 Tablet be stored?

Store SACU V 200 Tablet in a cool and dry place, away from direct sunlight. The recommended storage temperature is below 30°C (or between 10ºC and 25ºC). Keep the medicine out of the sight and reach of children.