Nikoran Od 20 Tablet (nicorandil 20 Mg): Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Severe chest pain that does not respond to rest or usual angina medicine
- Fainting or severe dizziness
- Painful mouth ulcers or sores on lips or tongue
- Severe abdominal pain, vomiting blood, or black tarry stools
- Swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Decreased urine output
- Irregular heartbeat or palpitations
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is nikoran od 20 tablet used for?
This medicine contains Nicorandil 20 mg, a potassium channel opener used to prevent angina pectoris. It works by relaxing blood vessels, improving blood flow to the heart, and reducing the heart's workload. It is taken orally, usually twice daily, and must not be combined with erectile dysfunction drugs.
- Generic Name: Nicorandil (20mg)
- Manufacturer: Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 nikoran od 20 tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा निकोरैंडिल 20 मिलीग्राम युक्त एक टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग एंजाइना पेक्टोरिस (हृदय में दर्द) को रोकने और इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह रक्त वाहिकाओं को फैलाकर हृदय तक रक्त का प्रवाह बढ़ाती है और हृदय पर दबाव कम करती है। यह दवा उन वयस्कों के लिए है जिन्हें अन्य दवाओं के बावजूद एंजाइना की समस्या बनी रहती है। इसे एंजाइना के तीव्र दौरे के लिए नहीं लिया जाता; उसके लिए तेजी से काम करने वाली नाइट्रेट दवा का उपयोग किया जाता है। इस दवा को सिल्डेनाफिल, टैडालाफिल जैसी यौन उत्तेजना बढ़ाने वाली दवाओं के साथ कभी नहीं लेना चाहिए, क्योंकि इससे रक्तचाप खतरनाक रूप से गिर सकता है।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में सिरदर्द, चक्कर आना, चेहरे पर गर्मी लगना, मतली और कमजोरी शामिल हैं। सिरदर्द अक्सर शुरुआत में होता है और कुछ दिनों में ठीक हो जाता है। दुर्लभ मामलों में मुंह, होंठ, जीभ या पेट में अल्सर हो सकते हैं। अगर मुंह में छाले या पेट में तेज दर्द, खून की उल्टी या काला मल दिखे तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें। किसी भी असामान्य लक्षण को नजरअंदाज न करें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। अपनी मर्जी से दवा की मात्रा न बदलें और न ही अचानक बंद करें, क्योंकि इससे एंजाइना बिगड़ सकता है। एंजाइना के तीव्र दौरे के लिए इस दवा का उपयोग न करें; उसके लिए अपनी तेज काम करने वाली दवा पास रखें। सिल्डेनाफिल, टैडालाफिल या वार्डेनाफिल जैसी दवाओं के साथ इसका सेवन बिल्कुल न करें। शराब से बचें क्योंकि इससे रक्तचाप और गिर सकता है। गर्भावस्था या स्तनपान के दौरान डॉक्टर से सलाह लें। दवा को ठंडी और सूखी जगह पर, बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें।
💊 nikoran od 20 tablet Uses & Benefits
- [{"condition":"Chronic stable angina pectoris","description":"This medicine is used to prevent angina attacks in patients with chronic stable angina who remain symptomatic despite treatment with beta-blockers or calcium channel blockers.
- It reduces the frequency and severity of angina attacks and improves exercise tolerance.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Vasospastic angina (Prinzmetal's angina)","description":"This medicine helps to relieve coronary artery spasm and is used in the management of vasospastic angina, either alone or in combination with other anti-anginal medicines.","evidence":"Established"},{"condition":"Unstable angina (as part of combination therapy)","description":"In some patients with unstable angina, this medicine may be added to standard treatment to reduce the risk of further cardiac events, but it is not a first-line therapy for acute coronary syndromes.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy","description":"Some small studies have explored the use of nicorandil to protect kidney function in patients undergoing coronary angiography with contrast dye, but evidence is not conclusive.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Raynaud's phenomenon","description":"Nicorandil has been used off-label to improve blood flow in patients with Raynaud's phenomenon due to its vasodilatory effects, but this is not a standard indication.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Angina pectoris
Also treats: Coronary artery disease, Vasospastic angina
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Nicorandil (20mg) |
| Brand Name | nikoran od 20 tablet |
| Manufacturer | Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | CARDIAC |
| Action Class | Potassium channel opener |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store this medicine at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Do not store it in the bathroom. Keep out of reach of children and pets. |
| Shelf Life | The shelf life of this medicine is typically 24 months from the date of manufacture. Check the expiry date on the pack before use. Do not use after the expiry date. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine works by opening adenosine triphosphate-sensitive potassium channels in the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels, which leads to hyperpolarization and relaxation of the vessel wall. It also has a nitrate-like effect, donating nitric oxide, which activates guanylate cyclase and increases cyclic guanosine monophosphate levels. This dual action causes both arterial and venous dilation, with a predominant effect on coronary arteries. The dilation of coronary arteries improves blood flow to the heart muscle, while venous dilation reduces preload and cardiac work. These effects together help to relieve and prevent angina pectoris.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take nikoran od 20 tablet
Strength: This medicine is available as an immediate-release tablet containing 20 mg of nicorandil.
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual adult dose of this medicine is 10 mg to 20 mg taken twice daily, with or without food. The dose may be increased gradually based on your response and tolerability, up to a maximum of 40 mg twice daily. The starting dose is often 5 mg twice daily to minimize the risk of headache and hypotension. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function, and concomitant medications. Do not change the dose without consulting your doctor. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the blood pressure-lowering effects of this medicine. Start with a lower dose and titrate slowly. Monitor blood pressure and renal function regularly. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Renal Impairment | In patients with mild to moderate renal impairment, no dose adjustment is usually needed. In severe renal impairment (creatinine clearance less than 30 mL/min), the dose should be reduced and the patient monitored closely. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Hepatic Impairment | In patients with mild to moderate hepatic impairment, no dose adjustment is usually needed. In severe hepatic impairment, the dose should be reduced and the patient monitored closely. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose is 80 mg (40 mg twice daily). However, the dose should be individualized by a qualified clinician. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of nikoran od 20 tablet
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Sildenafil | Major | |
| Tadalafil | Major | |
| Nitroglycerin | Major | |
| Isosorbide mononitrate | Major | |
| Riociguat | Major | |
| Metoprolol | Moderate | |
| Amlodipine | Moderate | |
| Ramipril | Moderate | |
| Hydrochlorothiazide | Moderate | |
| Alcohol | Moderate |
🚨 Major Interactions
- Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil)
- Nitrates (nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate, isosorbide dinitrate)
- Riociguat
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Antihypertensive drugs (beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics)
- Alcohol
- Tricyclic antidepressants
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may increase the blood pressure-lowering effect of this medicine and can lead to dizziness, fainting, or a dangerous drop in blood pressure. It is advisable to avoid alcohol while taking this medicine. If you do drink, limit your intake and monitor for symptoms of low blood pressure.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Hypersensitivity to nicorandil or any component of the formulation","Cardiogenic shock","Severe hypotension (systolic blood pressure less than 90 mmHg)","Heart failure with low filling pressures","Concomitant use with phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (sildenafil, tadalafil, vardenafil)","Concomitant use with riociguat","Severe dehydration","Acute myocardial infarction with low blood pressure"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["This medicine can cause severe hypotension, especially when used with other vasodilators or antihypertensive drugs. Monitor blood pressure closely.","Rarely, this medicine can cause ulceration of the mouth, lips, tongue, or gastrointestinal tract. Advise patients to report any sores or pain.","Do not use this medicine to relieve an acute angina attack. It is for prevention only.","Avoid concomitant use with erectile dysfunction drugs due to the risk of severe hypotension.","Use with caution in patients with glaucoma, as it may increase intraocular pressure.","Use with caution in patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment. Dose adjustment may be needed.","This medicine may cause dizziness; advise patients not to drive or operate machinery until they know how it affects them.","Do not stop this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, as it may worsen angina."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
It is not known whether this medicine is excreted in human breast milk. Because many drugs are excreted in human milk, caution should be exercised when this medicine is administered to a breastfeeding woman. Consult your doctor to decide whether to discontinue breastfeeding or the medicine, taking into account the importance of the drug to the mother.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose of this medicine can cause severe hypotension, tachycardia, and cardiovascular collapse. If an overdose is suspected, seek emergency medical attention immediately. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. The patient should be placed in a supine position with legs elevated to improve blood pressure. Intravenous fluids and vasopressors may be needed to maintain blood pressure. There is no specific antidote. Monitor vital signs and cardiac function closely.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose of this medicine, take it 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 to make up for a missed one. If you are unsure, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Additional Safety Advice
Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not change the dose or stop taking it without consulting your doctor, as sudden withdrawal may worsen your angina. This medicine should not be used to relieve an acute angina attack; keep a fast-acting nitrate available for that purpose. Avoid taking this medicine with medicines for erectile dysfunction such as sildenafil, tadalafil, or vardenafil, as this combination can cause a life-threatening drop in blood pressure. Inform your doctor if you have low blood pressure, heart failure, or kidney or liver problems. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you, as it may cause dizziness. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because it can increase the blood pressure-lowering effect. If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, talk to your doctor before taking this medicine. Store this medicine in its original container at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the blood pressure-lowering effects of this medicine. Start with a lower dose and titrate slowly. Monitor blood pressure, renal function, and for signs of dizziness or falls. Regular review of concomitant medications is advised to avoid interactions.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. There is limited information on its safety during pregnancy. Your doctor will weigh the benefits and risks and may switch you to a safer alternative if needed.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
After surgery, inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may interact with anesthetic agents and cause hypotension. Your doctor may advise temporary discontinuation before surgery. Do not stop the medicine without medical advice.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine before any dental procedure. It may cause dizziness or hypotension during the procedure. Your dentist may take precautions such as monitoring blood pressure. Do not stop the medicine without consulting your doctor.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
This medicine can cause dizziness or low blood pressure, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose. Avoid strenuous exercise until you know how the medicine affects you. If you feel dizzy or faint during exercise, stop immediately and rest. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
This medicine may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, which can affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Avoid these activities until you know how the medicine affects you. It may also cause headache, which can impact concentration. Discuss with your doctor if your work involves such activities.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience serious side effects such as mouth ulcers, severe hypotension, or allergic reactions, contact your doctor immediately. Your doctor will decide whether to stop the medicine or adjust the dose. Abrupt discontinuation may worsen angina.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use of this medicine is generally well-tolerated. However, rare cases of mouth, gastrointestinal, and skin ulceration have been reported with prolonged use. Regular monitoring of blood pressure, renal and hepatic function is advised. Patients should be vigilant for any sores in the mouth or gastrointestinal symptoms. The medicine may continue to be effective for years, but periodic review by a doctor is necessary to assess ongoing need and adjust therapy.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and stress management can complement medicine for angina.
Evidence: Well-establishedAngioplasty or bypass surgery may be considered for severe coronary artery disease.
Evidence: Well-establishedSupervised exercise and education programs can improve cardiovascular health.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
There are no specific vaccine interactions reported with this medicine. However, patients with heart disease should follow their doctor's advice regarding vaccinations, such as influenza and pneumococcal vaccines, which are recommended for individuals with cardiovascular conditions.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
When traveling, carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your hand luggage to avoid loss or exposure to extreme temperatures. Store at room temperature and avoid direct sunlight. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing times gradually in consultation with your doctor. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines. Carry enough supply for your entire trip.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after taking a dose, but its full benefits in preventing angina may take a few days to weeks to become noticeable. It is not for immediate relief of an acute attack.
A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.
A: If you miss a dose, take it 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 double dose.
A: No, do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. Stopping suddenly may worsen your angina. Your doctor will decide if and when to stop.
A: There is limited information about its safety in pregnancy. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It should be used only if clearly needed.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for nikoran od 20 tablet
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
nicorex 20mg tabletAprica Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd ₹130.00 80.1% CHEAPER
-
nicomax 20mg tabletShinto Organics (P) Limited ₹323.44 50.4% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: Nicorandil can be used to relieve an acute angina attack.
Fact: Nicorandil is for prevention of angina, not for immediate relief. For acute attacks, use a fast-acting nitrate like sublingual nitroglycerin as prescribed. - Myth: Nicorandil is safe to take with erectile dysfunction drugs.
Fact: Combining Nicorandil with sildenafil, tadalafil, or vardenafil can cause a life-threatening drop in blood pressure. This combination is contraindicated. - Myth: Nicorandil causes mouth ulcers in everyone.
Fact: Mouth ulcers are a rare side effect. Most people do not experience them. However, if they occur, stop the medicine and consult your doctor. - Myth: You can stop Nicorandil suddenly if you feel better.
Fact: Never stop Nicorandil abruptly without consulting your doctor, as it may worsen angina. Always follow your doctor's advice.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Nicorandil 20 mg tablet
Brand Alternatives
- Nikoran OD 20 Tablet