If channel inhibitors: What They Do, Medicines
If channel inhibitors are prescription medicines that slow the heart rate by acting on the heart's natural pacemaker. They are used in some people with angina or heart failure whose heart rate stays high. Ivabradine is the main example. They can cause a very slow heartbeat, flashes of light in vision and atrial fibrillation.
Pharmacist review in progress. This page is based on the sources listed below and is being checked by our registered pharmacist.
How do If channel inhibitors work?
Ivabradine blocks the If current in the sinus node, the heart's natural pacemaker. The pacemaker then fires more slowly, so the resting heart rate falls without lowering the force of each beat or blood pressure much.
Active ingredients of this type
These active ingredients belong to If channel inhibitors. They are listed A to Z.
- Ivabradine: Ivabradine is a prescription medicine that slows the heart rate.
Common questions
What are the bright flashes some people see with ivabradine?
Some people notice temporary patches of brightness in their vision, called phosphenes, mostly in the first months. They are often mild. Take care when driving, especially at night, and tell your doctor if they are troublesome.
Why is heart rate checked on ivabradine?
The medicine slows the heart and can cause a heart rate that is too slow. Doctors check pulse and rhythm, because it can also increase the chance of atrial fibrillation. Report dizziness, tiredness, fainting or an irregular heartbeat.
Sources
- Procoralan (ivabradine): EPAR medicine overview. European Medicines Agency
- Ivabradine tablets: prescribing information (Novadoz). DailyMed, US National Library of Medicine
- ATC/DDD Index: C01EB Other cardiac preparations. WHO Collaborating Centre for Drug Statistics Methodology
- National Formulary of India. Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission