Ivabradine is a specialized cardiovascular medication designed to reduce heart rate without affecting blood pressure or the contractile function of the heart. It is primarily used for treating patients with Chronic Heart Failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) and Stable Angina Pectoris.

Amber Lifesciences Pvt Ltd, a WHO-GMP certified pharmaceutical exporter based in Navi Mumbai, India, manufactures and supplies high-quality Ivabradine in bulk to partners across Latin America, including Mexico, Colombia, Peru, Ecuador, and Honduras, ensuring global regulatory compliance.

Mechanism of Action of Ivabradine

Ivabradine selectively inhibits the If (“funny”) channels in the sinoatrial (SA) node, slowing spontaneous depolarization and thereby reducing heart rate (HR) without impacting myocardial contractility or blood pressure.

Indications for Ivabradine

1. Chronic Heart Failure (HFrEF)

• Used in patients with symptomatic stable chronic heart failure (NYHA class II–IV) and reduced ejection fraction (≤35%) who are in sinus rhythm with a resting HR ≥70 bpm.
• Administered alongside standard therapy (e.g., beta-blockers if tolerated).
• Proven to reduce hospitalizations for worsening heart failure (e.g., the SHIFT trial).

2. Stable Angina Pectoris

• Recommended for CAD patients who can’t use beta-blockers due to intolerance or contraindications.

Dosage & Administration

• Initial Dose: 5 mg twice daily (with food for better absorption).
• Adjustments:
  • The dose may be raised to 7.5 mg twice daily if the heart rate stays above 60 bpm
  • Reduce to 2.5 mg twice daily if HR <50 bpm or if bradycardia symptoms occur.

Common Side Effects

• Luminous phenomena (phosphenes) – a temporary perception of enhanced brightness due to retinal channel effects.
• Bradycardia, dizziness, and headache.

Rare but Serious Side Effects

• Atrial fibrillation
• Severe bradycardia
• QT prolongation

Contraindications

• Acute decompensated heart failure
• Severe hypotension (BP <90/50 mmHg)
• Sick sinus syndrome or AV block (unless a pacemaker is present)
• Severe liver impairment
• Use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)

Clinical Considerations

• Monitor Heart Rate: Aim for a resting HR between 50–60 bpm.
• Not for Acute Heart Failure or Cardiogenic Shock.
• It is not a substitute for beta-blockers unless the patient is intolerant or has contraindications.

How Ivabradine Works: Step-by-Step

1. Blocks If Channels in the SA Node

• If current regulates spontaneous heartbeats. This medicine blocks this current, slowing depolarization.

2. Reduces Spontaneous Firing Rate

• By delaying diastolic depolarization, it increases the time between heartbeats.

3. Selective Heart Rate Reduction

• Unlike beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers, Ivabradine does not affect blood pressure or contractility.

Why Ivabradine Matters in Practice

• In Heart Failure: A high resting HR worsens cardiac remodeling and oxygen demand. Ivabradine improves coronary perfusion and diastolic filling, reducing cardiac strain.
• In Angina: Reducing HR decreases myocardial oxygen demand, helping to relieve ischemic symptoms.

Comparison: Ivabradine vs Beta-Blockers

Why Choose Amber Lifesciences for Ivabradine?

• WHO-GMP certified pharmaceutical exporter located in CBD Belapur, Navi Mumbai.
• Bulk supply of Ivabradine with consistent pharmaceutical quality
• Global Regulatory Compliance – meets WHO-GMP, EU-GMP, and USFDA guidelines
• Servicing regulated and semi-regulated markets across Latin America

Conclusion

Ivabradine provides a targeted approach for managing chronic heart failure and stable angina, particularly in patients who are intolerant to or contraindicated for beta-blockers. Amber Lifesciences Pvt Ltd offers high-quality Ivabradine exports to global markets, including Costa Rican cities like San José, Alajuela, Cartago, Heredia, and Limón, ensuring product safety, efficacy, and availability.