(Click Sular Uses for more information on what it is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
It is made by Sciele Pharma, Inc.
Sular is part of a class of drugs called
calcium channel blockers. This medication helps slow down the rate at which
calcium moves into your heart and into the blood vessel walls. This, in turn, helps to relax the vessels, which allows better blood flow and makes it easier for the heart to pump blood.
There are two basic types of calcium channel blockers: dihydropyridine and non-dihydropyridine. The most important difference between the two types is that non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers can slow the heart rate, while dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers do not. Sular is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, which means that it does not usually decrease the heart rate.
When and How to Take Sular
Some general considerations for when and how to take the medication include:
- Sular comes in tablet form. It is taken by mouth, usually once a day.
- It should be taken on an empty stomach or with a low-fat meal or snack. Taking it with a high-fat meal can increase the level of Sular in your blood, increasing your risk of side effects.
- Because Sular tablets are extended release, they should not be broken, crushed, or chewed. Be sure to swallow the tablets whole.
- It should be taken at the same time each day to maintain an even level of the drug in your blood.
- For the medication to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. Sular will not work if you stop taking it.
The dosage that your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may currently be taking.
As is the case with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with Sular. However, not everyone who takes the medicine will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it well. When side effects do occur, in most cases they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of Sular include, but are not limited to:
- Swelling or water retention in the hands, feet, or lower legs
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Sore throat.
(Click Sular Side Effects to learn about specific side effects of this drug, including potentially serious side effects that you should report to your healthcare provider.)
You can also read about other possible side effects by clicking on:
Drug Interactions With Sular
Sular can potentially interact with a number of medicines.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all other medicines you may be taking, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
It is not known exactly what to expect from an overdose, since there have been so few Sular overdoses. People who take too much of the medication may develop low
blood pressure (hypotension) or other problems.
If you happen to overdose, seek medical attention immediately.
It should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. The tablets should be stored in an airtight container.
Keep Sular and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose?
If you do not take your Sular as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
The tablets are available in four strengths:
- Sular 10 mg tablets
- Sular 20 mg tablets
- Sular 30 mg tablets
- Sular 40 mg tablets.
Currently, there is no generic Sular licensed for sale.
