Ranolazine is an anti-anginal drug used for the treatment of chronic angina. It can be found under the brand names Aspruzyo Sprinkle and Ranexa. Chronic angina is a common cardiovascular condition affecting millions worldwide and causes significant disability while interfering with daily activities. Ranolazine is a well-tolerated piperazine derivative used for the management of this condition, offering relief from uncomfortable and debilitating symptoms. It can be used alone or in conjunction with nitrates, beta-blockers, angiotensin receptor blockers, anti-platelet drugs, calcium channel blockers, lipid-lowering drugs, and ACE inhibitors. Myocardial ischemia exerts effects on adenosine triphosphate flux, leading to a decrease in the energy available for contraction and relaxation of the heart muscle. Electrolyte balance of sodium and potassium is necessary for maintaining normal cardiac contraction and relaxation. Disruption of adequate sodium and potassium electrolyte balance leads to excessively high concentrations of sodium and calcium, which likely interferes with oxygen supply to the heart muscle. This imbalance eventually leads to angina symptoms of chest pain or pressure, nausea, and dizziness, among others. The mechanism of action for ranolazine is not fully understood. At therapeutic concentrations, it can inhibit the cardiac late sodium 205 current (INa), which may affect the electrolyte balance in the myocardium, relieving angina symptoms. The clinical significance this inhibition in the treatment of angina symptoms is not yet confirmed. It has been shown to exert weak activity on L-type calcium channels. Some side effects of using ranolazine may include chest tightness, laboured breathing, and lightheadedness. Ranolazine is administered as an oral tablet.

Ranolazine Pathway References