Bepridil

Uses of Bepridil

Bepridil is commonly used to treat Chronic Stable Angina

How Bepridil Works

Bepridil inhibits the calcium influx into vascular smooth muscle and myocardium during the depolarization phase. This results in dilated coronary vessels supplying more oxygen to the heart tissue thus reducing the stress and relieves of anginal symptoms.

Side Effects of Bepridil

Dizziness, Nausea, Shortness of breath, Slow pulse, Headache, Drowsiness, Insomnia, Tremor, Sexual disturbances, Blurred vision

Warnings

Kidney Use With Care

Bepridil should be used with care in renal impaired patients to avoid dose toxicity. Dose adjustment may be required in this group of people.

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is not advisable to consume alcohol when taking Bepridil as certain side effects of Bepridil such as dizziness and headache may be compounded by the effects of alcohol.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Animal studies have been shown to produce some adverse effects in terms of litter size and survival. There is no well or adequate studies on human pregnancy. Bepridil is only indicated if the benefit outweighs the risk.

Driving Not advisable

It is not advisable to drive while taking Bepridil as it can cause side effects such as dizziness, blurred vision and headache all of which can alter the concentration and ability to drive.

Liver Use With Care

Bepridil should be used with caution in people with hepatic impairment. Little data is obtained about the effects on liver injury and further advice should be sought before commencing the treatment with Bepridil.

Lactation Not Advisable

It is found that there is a trace of about 1/3 of concentration of Bepridil in human breastmilk. Due to its potential toxicity and adverse effects, it is not recommended for the mother to breastfeed the infant while on this treatment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Written by , MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).