Indications

Angina pectoris, Hypertension, Cardiac arrhythmias

Contraindication

Sick-sinus syndrome, pre-existing 2nd- or 3rd-degree AV block, marked bradycardia, acute MI and pulmonary congestion, severe hypotension or cardiogenic shock. IV: Atrial flutter or AF w/ accessory bypass tract (e.g. Wolff-Parkinson-White syndrome), ventricular tachycardia. Concomitant admin w/ IV β-blockers.

Special Precautions

Patient w/ hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy, left ventricular dysfunction. Renal and hepatic impairment. Elderly. Pregnancy and lactation. Monitoring Parameters Monitor BP, ECG, LFTs, heart rate.

Side Effects

Headache, hypotension, dizziness, fatigue, flushing, ankle oedema, mood disturbances, AV block, bradycardia, GI disturbances (e.g. anorexia, nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhoea, taste disturbances, wt gain), gingival hyperplasia, rashes, erythema multiforme, exfoliative dermatitis, acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis, photosensitivity (including lichenoid keratosis, hyperpigmentation at sun-exposed skin areas), transient liver enzyme values elevation, hepatitis. Rarely, asystole or sinus arrest.

Drug Interactions

Increased AV blocking effect w/ clonidine. May increase serum levels of statins (e.g. atorvastatin, lovastatin), carbamazepine, phenytoin. May increase bradycardic affect of amiodarone, digoxin, mefloquine. May enhance antihypertensive effect w/ other antihypertensives (e.g. aldesleukin), antipsychotic. Increased serum levels w/ cimetidine. Decreased serum levels w/ rifampicin, phenobarbital.

Route of Administration

Oral

Dosage

As directed by the physician