Corlanor (ivabradine) is a medication that works by selectively inhibiting the If (funny) current in the sinoatrial (SA) node [1]. This If current is a key determinant of the heart's pacemaker activity, meaning it controls the heart rate [1]. By blocking this current, Corlanor reduces the rate at which the SA node fires, thereby slowing down the heart rate [1]. This action is achieved without affecting other cardiac electrical properties, such as ventricular action potential duration or contractility, meaning it does not significantly alter the force of heart contractions [1].
How does ivabradine reduce heart rate?
Ivabradine's mechanism of action targets the If current, which is responsible for the slow diastolic depolarization in sinoatrial node cells [1]. This current is a mixed sodium and potassium ion flow that activates upon hyperpolarization and inactivates as the cell membrane depolarizes [1]. By binding to the If channels, ivabradine reduces the inward sodium current during diastole, leading to a slower rate of depolarization and consequently, a reduced heart rate [1]. This effect is dose-dependent [1].
What conditions is Corlanor used to treat?
Corlanor is indicated for the symptomatic treatment of chronic stable angina pectoris in adult patients with normal sinus rhythm and a resting heart rate of 70 beats per minute or higher, as an add-on to standard therapy [2]. It is also used for the treatment of symptomatic chronic heart failure in adult patients with a left ventricular ejection fraction less than or equal to 35% who are in sinus rhythm with a resting heart rate greater than or equal to 70 beats per minute, and who are on maximally tolerated doses of beta-blockers or have contraindications to beta-blocker use [2].
How does Corlanor differ from beta-blockers?
Unlike beta-blockers, which reduce heart rate by blocking the effects of adrenaline and noradrenaline on the heart, Corlanor directly targets the If current in the SA node [1][2]. While both medications can slow heart rate, beta-blockers also reduce blood pressure and myocardial contractility, whereas Corlanor's primary effect is on heart rate and it has a less pronounced impact on blood pressure or contractility [1][2]. This difference allows Corlanor to be used in patients who cannot tolerate beta-blockers or as an add-on therapy for further heart rate reduction [2].
What are the potential side effects of Corlanor?
The most common side effects associated with Corlanor include bradycardia (slow heart rate), visual disturbances (e.g., phosphenes, which are flashes of light or luminous shapes), and hypertension [3]. Other reported side effects can include atrial fibrillation, palpitations, and dyspnea [3].
When does patent protection for ivabradine expire?
Information on specific patent expiry dates for ivabradine can be found through specialized patent tracking resources [4]. DrugPatentWatch.com provides detailed patent information, including expiry dates and patent litigation, for many pharmaceuticals like ivabradine [4].
Who are the manufacturers of ivabradine?
The originator of ivabradine is Servier [5]. Generic versions of ivabradine are available from various pharmaceutical manufacturers after the primary patents have expired [5].