Sacuval 50 Tab

SACUVAL 50 TAB by ALKEM LABORATORIES LTD.

Name

• Brand Name: Sacuval 50 Tablet
• Common Name: Sacubitril and Valsartan

Composition

Sacuval 50 Tablet is a combination medication containing Sacubitril 24 mg and Valsartan 26 mg. It belongs to a class of drugs known as Angiotensin Receptor-Neprilysin Inhibitors (ARNI). Sacubitril inhibits neprilysin, increasing beneficial peptides that relax blood vessels, while Valsartan blocks angiotensin II, which narrows blood vessels, thus reducing the heart's workload and improving blood flow.

Uses

Sacuval 50 Tablet is primarily used for the treatment of chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction in adults. It helps improve symptoms, reduces the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization, and prolongs survival in patients with this condition. It also helps manage hypertension and provides cardiovascular protection.

Dosage and Administration

This medicine should be taken in the dose and duration advised by your doctor. Swallow the tablet whole without chewing, crushing, or breaking it. Sacuval 50 Tablet can be taken with or without food, but it is recommended to take it at a fixed time each day for maximum benefit. Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly, even if you feel better.

Side Effects

• Common: Hypotension (low blood pressure), increased potassium levels in blood (hyperkalemia), cough, dizziness, renal impairment, headache, nausea, diarrhea, and weakness.
• Serious: Angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, and throat, with breathing difficulties), severe kidney damage, hallucinations, or changes in sleep patterns.

Precautions

Do not take Sacuval 50 Tablet if you are allergic to its components, have a history of angioedema, have severe liver disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding. It should not be used concurrently with ACE inhibitors (a 36-hour washout period is required before or after taking an ACE inhibitor) or Aliskiren, especially in patients with diabetes or impaired kidney function. Caution is advised for patients with kidney or liver diseases, and regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels is recommended. Avoid potassium supplements and potassium-rich foods unless advised by a doctor. Rise slowly to prevent dizziness. Alcohol consumption should be avoided.

Storage

Store below 30°C. Protect from moisture and light. Keep out of reach of children and pets.

What is SACUVAL 50 Tablet used for?

SACUVAL 50 Tablet is primarily used to treat chronic heart failure in adults with reduced ejection fraction, a condition where the heart struggles to pump blood efficiently. It helps to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and hospitalization for heart failure by improving heart function and symptoms like breathlessness, fatigue, and fluid retention.

How does SACUVAL 50 Tablet work?

SACUVAL 50 Tablet is a combination medication containing Sacubitril and Valsartan, belonging to the class of Angiotensin Receptor Neprilysin Inhibitors (ARNIs). Sacubitril works by inhibiting an enzyme called neprilysin, which increases the levels of natural substances that relax and widen blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. Valsartan, an angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB), relaxes blood vessels by blocking the action of angiotensin II, a substance that causes blood vessels to constrict. Together, these actions lower blood pressure, reduce the workload on the heart, and improve blood flow.

What is the usual dosage for SACUVAL 50 Tablet?

The dosage and duration of SACUVAL 50 Tablet are determined by your doctor based on your age, body weight, and medical condition. It is typically taken twice daily, with or without food. You should swallow the tablet whole with water and not crush, chew, or break it. It's crucial to follow your doctor's instructions and not exceed the recommended dose.

What are the possible side effects of SACUVAL 50 Tablet?

Common side effects include dizziness, light-headedness (due to low blood pressure), cough, headache, tiredness, nausea, diarrhea, and weakness. It can also cause elevated potassium levels in the blood (hyperkalemia), which might lead to irregular heartbeat or muscle weakness, and may affect kidney function. Rare but serious side effects include angioedema (swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which can cause breathing difficulties).

Is SACUVAL 50 Tablet safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

No, SACUVAL 50 Tablet is not recommended for use during pregnancy and is contraindicated, as it can cause serious harm to the developing baby. It is also not recommended for use in breastfeeding women because the drug may pass into breast milk and potentially harm the baby. If you become pregnant while taking this medicine, stop immediately and consult your doctor.

Can SACUVAL 50 Tablet be taken with other medications?

SACUVAL 50 Tablet can interact with several medications. It should not be taken with ACE inhibitors (like enalapril, lisinopril, or ramipril), and there should be a gap of at least 36 hours between stopping an ACE inhibitor and starting SACUVAL 50 Tablet, or vice versa, due to the increased risk of angioedema. Concomitant use with aliskiren is contraindicated, especially in patients with diabetes, as it can increase the risk of hyperkalemia, hypotension, and kidney dysfunction. Caution is also advised with potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium, potassium-sparing medicines (like spironolactone), NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen or naproxen), and lithium. Always inform your doctor about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.

What precautions should be taken while using SACUVAL 50 Tablet?

Inform your doctor if you have kidney or liver problems, as dose adjustments may be needed. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, kidney function, and potassium levels is necessary during treatment. Patients should rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to minimize dizziness caused by low blood pressure. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you experience dizziness or tiredness. Avoid potassium-rich foods and supplements unless advised by your doctor.

What happens if a dose of SACUVAL 50 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 double the dose to make up for a missed one.

How should SACUVAL 50 Tablet be stored?

SACUVAL 50 Tablet should be kept out of the reach of children. It should be stored in a cool and dry place, below 30°C or 25°C, and in its original packaging to protect it from light.