Ancor 5 mg

Description

Indications Ancor 5 mg Tablet is prescribed for the treatment of:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)
• Angina (chest pain)
• Moderate to severe heart failure

Ancor is not suitable for emergency management of hypertensive crises.

Pharmacology Ancor contains Bisoprolol Fumarate, a highly selective beta-1 (ß1) adrenergic receptor blocker. It has the highest affinity for ß1 receptors among available beta-blockers, ensuring targeted action on the heart and vascular smooth muscles. By blocking ß1 receptors, it reduces heart rate and cardiac output, leading to lower arterial blood pressure.

Unlike non-selective beta-blockers, Bisoprolol does not negatively impact lipid metabolism or reduce protective HDL-cholesterol levels during long-term therapy. Its pharmacokinetic properties allow for once-daily dosing with minimal variation in plasma concentration.

• Absorption & Bioavailability: Rapidly absorbed (>90%) from the gastrointestinal tract with an absolute bioavailability of 88%. Food intake does not affect absorption.
• Distribution: Extensively distributed with a mean distribution volume of 3.5 L/kg.
• Metabolism: Metabolized through oxidative pathways without conjugation. The metabolites are excreted renally and lack pharmacological activity. The primary metabolism occurs via CYP3A4 (~95%), with a minor role played by CYP2D6.
• Elimination: Approximately 50% is eliminated unchanged through the kidneys, while the other 50% is metabolized in the liver before renal excretion. The elimination half-life is 10-12 hours.

Dosage & Administration

• Adults: The usual starting dose is 5 mg once daily, either alone or in combination with a diuretic. If necessary, the dose may be increased to 10 mg, and then to a maximum of 20 mg once daily. Dose adjustments should be made at intervals of two weeks.
• Children: Safety and efficacy in pediatric patients have not been established.
• Patients with Renal or Hepatic Impairment: Initial dose should be 5 mg once daily. Dose adjustments should be made with caution, as accumulation may occur. Since Bisoprolol is not significantly removed by dialysis, dose replacement is unnecessary for dialysis patients.
• Elderly Patients: Dose adjustments are generally not required unless there is significant renal or hepatic impairment.

Drug Interactions

• Other Beta-Blockers: Should not be used in combination with other beta-blocking agents.
• Catecholamine-Depleting Drugs: Drugs such as reserpine or guanethidine may enhance the beta-blocking effect, requiring close monitoring.
• Centrally Acting Antihypertensive Agents: May worsen rebound hypertension upon withdrawal of clonidine. Beta-blockers should be discontinued several days before stopping clonidine.
• Antiarrhythmic Drugs & Calcium Channel Blockers: Concurrent use with agents like verapamil, diltiazem, or disopyramide can lead to severe hypotension, bradycardia, or heart failure.

Contraindications Ancor 5 mg Tablet should not be used in patients with:

• Cardiogenic shock
• Overt heart failure
• Second or third-degree atrioventricular (A-V) block
• Right ventricular failure due to pulmonary hypertension
• Sinus bradycardia

Side Effects Side effects vary among individuals but may include:

• Fatigue, dizziness, headache
• Gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, constipation, abdominal pain)
• Cold or numb hands and feet
• Muscle weakness or cramps
• Slower heart rate
• Breathing difficulties (bronchospasm) in individuals with asthma or COPD

Use in Pregnancy & Lactation

• Pregnancy: Animal studies have shown potential risks at high doses. Ancor should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits outweigh the risks.
• Lactation: While small amounts of Bisoprolol are detected in animal milk, its excretion in human milk is unknown. If necessary, breastfeeding should be discontinued.

Precautions & Warnings

• Caution is advised in patients with impaired renal or hepatic function.
• Individuals with a history of severe anaphylactic reactions may be more sensitive while taking beta-blockers.
• Beta-blockers may mask symptoms of low blood sugar in diabetic patients; regular monitoring is advised.
• Do not discontinue Ancor suddenly, as this may cause a sudden increase in blood pressure and increase the risk of heart attack or stroke.

Therapeutic Class

• Beta-Adrenoceptor Blocking Drugs (Beta-Blockers)
• Anti-Adrenergic Agents

Storage Conditions

• Store in a cool, dry place away from direct heat and light.
• Keep out of reach of children.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Ancor 5 mg Tablet?
   • Ancor 5 mg Tablet is a beta-blocker that helps lower blood pressure, reduce the heart’s workload, and prevent chest pain.
2. What conditions does Ancor 5 mg Tablet treat?
   • It is used for high blood pressure (hypertension), chest pain (angina), and heart failure.
3. How should I take Ancor 5 mg Tablet?
   • Take it once daily, with or without food, preferably at the same time each day.
4. What are the side effects of Ancor 5 mg Tablet?
   • Possible side effects include dizziness, fatigue, headache, slow heart rate, difficulty breathing, and cold extremities.
5. Is Ancor 5 mg Tablet safe for everyone?
   • While generally safe, consult your doctor if you have asthma, diabetes, heart problems, liver or kidney disease, low blood pressure, or depression before taking it.
6. Should I take Ancor 5 mg Tablet before or after food?
   • It is usually taken after food in the prescribed dosage.
7. How should I store and dispose of Ancor 5 mg Tablet?
   • Store in a dry place in its original packaging. Keep away from children and pets.

Quick Tips

• May cause dizziness; rise slowly from sitting or lying positions.
• Diabetics should monitor blood sugar levels, as beta-blockers can mask symptoms of hypoglycemia.
• Do not abruptly stop taking Ancor, as it can lead to sudden increases in blood pressure and heart-related complications.

Disclaimer: Always consult a registered physician before taking this medication.