Levosimendan

Dosage Forms Available

• Levosimendan is available as a concentrate solution for infusion. It is administered through the intravenous route.

Age and Dose Restrictions

• Levosimendan is primarily intended for use in adults.

Contraindications

• Levosimendan is contraindicated in patients with hypersensitivity to Levosimendan or any of its excipients.
• It is contraindicated for those with severe hypotension and tachycardia.
• Patients with significant mechanical obstructions affecting ventricular filling or outflow should not use this medicine.
• It is also contraindicated in severe renal impairment and severe hepatic impairment.

Other Medications to Avoid

• Levosimendan may interact with antihypertensives (such as beta-blockers like atenolol and metoprolol), medicines affecting heart rhythm (like digoxin), anaesthetics (such as propofol and sevoflurane), and anticoagulants (including warfarin).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• Symptoms of overdose with Levosimendan include hypotension, tachycardia, and arrhythmias. Immediate medical attention is required to manage blood pressure and correct any arrhythmias.
• If a dose is missed during the administration period, it should be administered as soon as possible. However, the missed dose should be skipped if it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose to avoid potential overdose effects.

Management of Side Effects

Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

• For headaches, consider resting in a quiet, dark room and staying hydrated by drinking plenty of water.
• If experiencing nausea, try eating small, bland meals throughout the day instead of three large meals.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• Levosimendan may cause side effects such as dizziness and headaches that could affect your ability to drive or operate machinery. Avoid these activities until you feel better.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Consult your doctor before using this medicine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Caution is advised when using Levosimendan in patients with low baseline blood pressure, hypovolemia, or hyponatremia.
• It should be used with caution in patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment, and dose adjustment may be necessary.

Special Dietary and Lifestyle Recommendations

• Patients diagnosed with heart conditions requiring Levosimendan should adhere to a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats, trans fats, cholesterol, salt (sodium), and added sugars.
• Engaging in regular physical activity as advised by a doctor can help improve heart health.
• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption as these can worsen heart conditions.
• Managing stress effectively through techniques like meditation, deep breathing exercises, or yoga may benefit overall heart health.
• Regular monitoring of blood pressure and cholesterol levels can help manage heart disease effectively.