Expanded US label for CV's angina drug

USA-based CV Therapeutics says that the Food and Drug Administration has approved a new, first-line indication for Ranexa (ranolazine extended-release tablets) for the treatment of chronic angina.

The new labeling also provides information showing that the agent reduced arrhythmias including ventricular arrhythmias, new-onset atrial fibrillation and bradycardia in patients with coronary artery disease. In addition, it states that Ranexa reduces HbA1c in patients with diabetes.

According to the revised packaging information, Ranexa is indicated for the treatment of chronic angina and may be used alone or in combination with traditional therapies, such as beta blockers, calcium channel blockers and nitrates, as well as common cardio-protective treatments for cardiovascular disease such as anti-platelet therapy, lipid-lowering therapy, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor and angiotensin receptor blockers.