What is Vericiguat?
Vericiguat can be used to reduce the risk of death and hospitalization in certain adults who have chronic heart disease.This medication guide does not list all possible uses of Vericiguat.
Side effects of Vericiguat
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction, seek immediate medical attention: hives, difficulty breathing, swelling of your lips, face, tongue, or throat.
Vericiguat may cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
- Low red blood cells (anemia)--pale or pale skin, unusual fatigue, feeling lightheaded, shortness of breath, and cold on the hands and feet
Vericiguat side effects may include:
- Anemia;
- Low blood pressure.
There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.
Warnings
Vericiguat should only be used if riociguat is also being used.
Vericiguat may cause birth defects. Do not use vericiguat if you're pregnant. Use an effective contraceptive during your treatment with vericiguat and for a minimum of 1 month following the last dose. Avoid unprotected sexual activity.
Before you take this drug
Vericiguat should not be used if you also take riociguat, a similar medication.Vericiguat can harm an unborn child or cause birth defects. You should use effective birth control during treatment and for at least one month after. Inform your doctor immediately if you have missed a period or believe you might be pregnant while on treatment.
Before starting the treatment, you will need a negative pregnancy result.Vericiguat should not be used while breastfeeding.
How to take a Vericiguat?
Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow the directions. Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. You must take the medication exactly as prescribed.Take with food
You can crush a tablet and mix it with water if you are unable to swallow it whole. Do not chew the mixture. Swallow it immediately. Don't save the mixture for later.Store away from heat and moisture at room temperature.
Vericiguat dosing information
Adult dose for heart failure:
Initial dose: orally, 2.5 mg once daily.
Maintenance dose: Double the dose approximately every two weeks until the 10 mg target dose is reached orally, once per day.
Use: To reduce cardiovascular mortality and hospitalization due to heart failure (HF) after hospitalization or the need for outpatient IV diuretics in patients with chronic HF symptoms and an ejection fraction below 45%.
What happens if I miss the dose?
Do not forget to take the missed dose. Continue to take your daily dose and your regular next dose. Never take two doses on the same day.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention.
Avoid this
If your doctor prescribes any restrictions regarding food, beverage, or activity, follow their instructions.
Interaction with other drug
Tell your doctor about your other medications, including:
- Erectile dysfunction medicines such as Viagra, Levitra, Cialis, Stendra, and others
This list is incomplete. Vericiguat may be affected by other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. This list does not cover all possible drug interactions.
