What does it do?

Nicorandil relaxes blood vessels and is used to treat long-term chest pain (angina).

Before you start

• Tell your doctor if you have liver problems or other heart problems, diverticulitis, or if you have had a stroke, ‘mini-stroke’, a recent head injury or bleeding in the brain.
• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.

How should you take it?

Take nicorandil regularly as directed with a glass of water.

What if you forget a dose?

Take the missed dose as soon as possible. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on as normal. Do not take two doses at the same time.

Can you take other medicines?

Taking sildenafil (Viagra®) or similar medicines and nicorandil together may cause severe side effects such as a heart attack. DO NOT use these medicines together.

Tell your pharmacist or doctor about all medicines or treatments that you may be taking, including vitamins, herbal products or recreational drugs.

What side effects might you notice?

Side Effects	Recommended action
Change in heartbeat Skin ulcers Red or black bowel motions Indigestion, abdominal pain	Tell your doctor
Mouth ulcers	Tell your doctor if symptoms persist
Headache	Common when treatment begins - if side effects continue or are severe, tell your doctor.
Dizziness, tiredness or weakness Flushing Stomach upset	Tell your doctor if troublesome

If you notice any other effects, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

Other information:

• Nicorandil can impair your ability to do tasks such as driving or using machines. Alcohol makes this worse. Discuss your risk with your health professional. (search NZTA - Are you safe to drive?)
• Taking alcohol and nicorandil at the same time may increase side-effects.
• Do not stop taking nicorandil without talking to your doctor first.