Vericiguat

Vericiguat may not be recommended for patients with severe anaemia (does not have enough healthy red blood cells); inform your doctor before using Vericiguat if you have ever had anaemia.

Entresto and Vericiguat are both medications used to manage heart failure, but they work in different ways and have distinct uses. Entresto contains sacubitril/valsartan, while Vericiguat contains Vericiguat. Both medications have shown effectiveness in managing heart failure and reducing hospitalizations. The choice between them may depend on individual patient factors, such as medical history, current symptoms, and overall health. Ultimately, the decision between Entresto and Vericiguat should be made in consultation with your doctor, who can consider your medical history and needs.

Vericiguat should be taken once daily with food. The specific time of day is not as important as taking it consistently at the same time each day to maintain an even level in your blood. If you have any concerns or specific instructions from your healthcare provider, it is best to follow their guidance.

Vericiguat is primarily used to reduce the risk of cardiovascular death and heart failure hospitalization in patients with symptomatic chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF). While Vericiguat helps improve heart function by enhancing the production of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), which relaxes blood vessels and reduces the workload on the heart, it does not directly improve ejection fraction.

Your doctor will determine the dosing of Vericiguat and prescribe the appropriate dose based on various factors, such as your medical condition, response to treatment, and ability to tolerate the medication.

No, Vericiguat should not be taken during pregnancy. It may cause fetal harm when administered to a pregnant woman. It is important to exclude pregnancy before starting treatment with Vericiguat and to use effective contraception during treatment and for at least one month after stopping the medication.

Vericiguat can lower blood pressure, and hypotension (low blood pressure) is a common side effect of this medication. If you experience symptoms such as dizziness or lightheadedness, taking precautions to avoid falls or injuries is essential. To cope with these symptoms, sit or lie down immediately if you feel dizzy, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, avoid standing for long periods, rise slowly from sitting or lying down positions, and avoid heavy lifting or bending. However, consult your healthcare provider for guidance if symptoms persist or worsen.

Heart failure can present a variety of symptoms, some of which may be subtle and easily overlooked. Here are some common symptoms to watch out for: shortness of breath with activity or when lying down, fatigue and weakness, swelling in the legs, ankles and feet, rapid or irregular heartbeat, wheezing, very fast weight gain from fluid buildup, nausea and lack of appetite, difficulty concentrating or decreased alertness, chest pain if a heart attack causes heart failure. If you or someone you know is experiencing these symptoms, it is essential to seek medical attention for proper evaluation and management.

Making positive lifestyle changes can significantly impact heart failure management and overall health. Some key lifestyle modifications that can make a difference are maintaining a healthy diet, regular exercise, weight management, managing stress, quitting smoking, limiting alcohol, and following medical advice.

A heart-healthy diet is designed to support cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of heart disease. Some key components of a heart-healthy diet are fruits and vegetables, limited added sugars, moderate alcohol intake, whole grains, lean proteins, and hydration. Following these guidelines can help protect your heart and improve your overall well-being.