pca 10mg tablet - Nicorandil (10mg) medicine

Asnicor 10mg Tablet (Nicorandil): Comprehensive Medicine Guide

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🏭 Diacardus Pharmacy Pvt Ltd 📦 Varies by brand 💊 Allopathy 📅 Updated: Oct 23, 2026
📋 Prescription Required 💊 Generic Available
Medically Reviewed
11 min read
Evidence: Well-established for chronic stable angina; moderate for unstable angina; limited for other uses.
Reviewed by
SaathiMed Expert Panel | Oct 23, 2026
🩺
Medically Fact-Checked & Clinically Verified by SaathiMed Clinical Review Board
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 usual angina treatment
  • Fainting or severe dizziness
  • Sudden swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Blood in stool or vomit
  • Severe abdominal pain
  • Yellowing of skin or eyes
  • Unusual bruising or bleeding
  • Painful sores in the mouth or genital area

If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.

What is pca 10mg tablet used for?

This medicine contains Nicorandil 10 mg, a potassium channel activator used to prevent angina attacks. It works by relaxing blood vessels to improve blood flow to the heart. It is taken orally, usually twice daily, and is not for immediate relief of an acute angina attack.

  • Generic Name: Nicorandil (10mg)
  • Manufacturer: Diacardus Pharmacy Pvt Ltd
  • Form: Allopathy
  • Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
  • Prescription Required: Yes

🇮🇳 pca 10mg tablet के बारे में (Hindi Summary)

उपयोग: यह दवा निकोरंडिल 10 मिलीग्राम युक्त एक टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग एंजाइना पेक्टोरिस (सीने में दर्द) के हमलों को रोकने के लिए किया जाता है। यह रक्त वाहिकाओं को फैलाकर हृदय तक रक्त के प्रवाह को बेहतर बनाती है और हृदय पर दबाव कम करती है। यह दवा तीव्र एंजाइना हमले के तत्काल उपचार के लिए नहीं है। इसे डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार नियमित रूप से लेना चाहिए।

साइड इफेक्ट्स: इस दवा के सामान्य दुष्प्रभावों में सिरदर्द, चेहरे पर लालिमा, चक्कर आना, मतली और उल्टी शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और दवा जारी रखने पर कम हो सकते हैं। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन इनमें गंभीर निम्न रक्तचाप, हृदय विफलता का बिगड़ना, और त्वचा या म्यूकस झिल्ली में अल्सर शामिल हो सकते हैं। यदि आपको कोई असामान्य लक्षण दिखे, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से संपर्क करें।

सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। इसे अचानक बंद न करें, क्योंकि इससे एंजाइना बिगड़ सकता है। इस दवा के साथ शराब का सेवन न करें। बैठने या लेटने से उठते समय धीरे-धीरे उठें। यदि आप गर्भवती हैं, गर्भधारण की योजना बना रही हैं, या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो अपने डॉक्टर को बताएं। दवा को बच्चों की पहुंच से दूर रखें। कमरे के तापमान पर, नमी और सीधी धूप से बचाकर रखें।

💡 Did You Know? The first generic medicine was introduced in India in 1970 after the Patents Act was amended.

💊 pca 10mg tablet Uses & Benefits

  • [{"condition":"Chronic stable angina pectoris","description":"This medicine is used for the long-term prevention of angina attacks in patients with coronary artery disease.
  • It helps to reduce the frequency and severity of chest pain by improving blood flow to the heart muscle.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Unstable angina","description":"In some cases, this medicine may be used as part of a treatment regimen for unstable angina, under close medical supervision.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Adjunctive therapy in heart failure","description":"Nicorandil may be used in some patients with heart failure to help reduce symptoms and improve exercise tolerance, but this use is not approved in all countries.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Prevention of contrast-induced nephropathy","description":"Some studies suggest nicorandil may help protect kidney function in patients undergoing procedures with contrast dye, but this is not a standard approved use.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"Raynaud's phenomenon","description":"Nicorandil has been tried in some patients with Raynaud's phenomenon to improve blood flow to the fingers and toes, but evidence is limited.","evidence":"Limited"}]

Primary treatment for: Angina pectoris

Also treats: Coronary artery disease, Heart failure (adjunctive)

📋 Drug Information

Generic Name(s)Nicorandil (10mg)
Brand Namepca 10mg tablet
ManufacturerDiacardus Pharmacy Pvt Ltd
Packaging / FormVaries by brand (Allopathy)
Therapeutic ClassCARDIAC
Action ClassPotassium channel opener
Route of AdministrationOral
StorageStore at room temperature between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F). Protect from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep in the original container.
Shelf Life24 months from the date of manufacture.
WHO GuidelineNot established from the available information.
ICMR GuidelineNot established from the available information.

👨‍⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips

Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians

1
Take this medicine at the same times each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
2
Do not use this medicine for immediate relief of an acute angina attack; use fast-acting nitrates as prescribed.
3
Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine to prevent severe hypotension.
4
Inform your doctor if you experience persistent headaches, as dose adjustment may be needed.
5
Report any sores or ulcers in the mouth, skin, or genital area immediately.
6
Do not stop this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor.
7
Monitor your blood pressure regularly, especially if you are on other antihypertensive medicines.

🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?

Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.

✅
Chest pain (angina)
This medicine is commonly prescribed for prevention of angina attacks.
Likely Use
❌
Shortness of breath
This medicine is not a primary treatment for shortness of breath, but may be used in heart failure under supervision.
Not Primary
❌
High blood pressure
This medicine is not a primary antihypertensive, but it can lower blood pressure.
Not Primary

🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)

Pharmacokinetics

AbsorptionNicorandil is rapidly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract after oral administration. The absolute bioavailability is approximately 75% to 80% due to some first-pass metabolism.
DistributionNicorandil is widely distributed throughout the body. It has a volume of distribution of approximately 1.0 to 1.5 L/kg. It crosses the placenta and is distributed into breast milk.
Protein BindingNicorandil is approximately 25% bound to plasma proteins.
MetabolismNicorandil is extensively metabolized in the liver, primarily by denitration and subsequent glucuronidation. The main metabolites are inactive.
Half-LifeThe elimination half-life of nicorandil is approximately 1 hour.
ExcretionNicorandil and its metabolites are primarily excreted in the urine. About 70% of a dose is excreted in urine and about 20% in feces.
BioavailabilityThe oral bioavailability of nicorandil is approximately 75% to 80%.
Onset of ActionThe onset of action after oral administration is usually within 30 to 60 minutes.
Peak Plasma TimePeak plasma concentrations are reached approximately 30 to 60 minutes after oral administration.
Duration of ActionThe duration of action is approximately 12 hours, which supports twice-daily dosing.

How It Works

This medicine works by opening potassium channels in the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels, which leads to relaxation and widening of the blood vessels. Additionally, it has a nitrate-like effect that increases the levels of cyclic guanosine monophosphate (cGMP), further promoting vasodilation. This dual mechanism improves blood flow to the heart and reduces the heart's workload, helping to prevent angina attacks.

Mechanism Steps

1
Potassium channel activation: This medicine opens ATP-sensitive potassium channels in vascular smooth muscle cells, causing hyperpolarization and relaxation of the blood vessels.
2
Nitrate-like effect: The nitrate moiety of nicorandil increases cyclic GMP levels, leading to further vasodilation and improved coronary blood flow.
3
Reduced cardiac workload: The combined vasodilatory effects reduce preload and afterload, decreasing the heart's oxygen demand and helping to prevent angina.
4
Improved coronary circulation: Dilation of coronary arteries and collaterals improves blood supply to ischemic areas of the heart muscle.

💡 How to Take pca 10mg tablet

Strength: 10 mg immediate-release tablet

1Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
2Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
3You can take it with or without food, but taking it with food may reduce stomach upset.
4Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet unless instructed by your doctor.
5Take it at the same times each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
6Do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.

Dosage Information

Adult DosageThe usual adult dose of this medicine is 10 mg to 20 mg taken twice daily, with the dose adjusted according to clinical response and tolerability. The maximum recommended daily dose is 40 mg. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function.
Pediatric DosagePediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician.
Elderly DosageElderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects of this medicine. Start with a lower dose and titrate slowly. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on renal and hepatic function.
Renal ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is provided in the available information. Use with caution in patients with severe renal impairment. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Hepatic ImpairmentNo specific dose adjustment is provided in the available information. Use with caution in patients with severe hepatic impairment. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician.
Maximum Daily Dose40 mg per day

Dosage Timeline

🌅 Morning ❌ ☀️ Afternoon ❌ 🌆 Evening ❌ 🌙 Night ❌

🍽️ Food Timing Guide

With food
Take with meals
Reduces stomach upset and nausea.
Grapefruit
Avoid
May increase drug levels and side effects.
Alcohol
Avoid
Increases risk of hypotension and dizziness.

⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose

📌 Less than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Take the missed dose as soon as you remember.
💡 Continue with the regular schedule.
📌 More than half the dosing interval has passed
→ Skip the missed dose.
💡 Do not double dose to catch up.

⚠️ Side Effects of pca 10mg tablet

✅ Common Side Effects

Headache (Common (10-30%))
Usually resolves with continued use. If severe or persistent, consult your doctor.
Flushing (Common (5-10%))
Usually harmless and temporary. If bothersome, discuss with your doctor.
Dizziness (Common (5-10%))
Avoid driving or operating machinery if affected. Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions.
Nausea (Common (5-10%))
Take with food to reduce nausea. If persistent, consult your doctor.
Vomiting (Uncommon (1-5%))
Stay hydrated. If vomiting is severe or persistent, seek medical advice.

🚨 Serious Side Effects

Severe hypotension (Rare (<0.1%))
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience fainting, severe dizziness, or a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Worsening of heart failure (Rare (<0.1%))
Contact your doctor immediately if you notice increased shortness of breath, swelling in legs, or rapid weight gain.
Gastrointestinal ulceration (Rare (<0.1%))
Report any severe abdominal pain, blood in stool, or vomiting blood to your doctor immediately.
Skin ulceration (Rare (<0.1%))
If you develop painful sores or ulcers on the skin, mouth, or genitals, stop the medicine and seek medical advice.
Angioedema (Very rare (<0.01%))
Seek emergency medical help if you experience swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or difficulty breathing.

⚠️ Rare Side Effects

Thrombocytopenia
Report unusual bruising or bleeding to your doctor.
Hepatitis
Seek medical attention if you notice yellowing of skin or eyes, dark urine, or severe fatigue.
Myalgia
Consult your doctor if muscle pain is persistent or severe.

Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.

🔬 Drug Interactions

Drug Severity Effect
Sildenafil Major
Nitroglycerin Major
Riociguat Major
Amlodipine Moderate
Metoprolol Moderate
Lisinopril Moderate
Alcohol Moderate
Ibuprofen Minor
Grapefruit juice Minor
Tricyclic antidepressants Moderate

🚨 Major Interactions

  • Phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil, tadalafil)
  • Nitrates (e.g., nitroglycerin, isosorbide mononitrate)
  • Riociguat

⚡ Moderate Interactions

  • Antihypertensives (e.g., ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, calcium channel blockers)
  • Alcohol
  • Tricyclic antidepressants

🍷 Alcohol Interaction

Alcohol should be avoided while taking this medicine because it can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of dizziness, fainting, and hypotension.

🔎 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 < 90 mmHg)","Acute myocardial infarction with low filling pressures","Concomitant use with phosphodiesterase-5 inhibitors (e.g., sildenafil)","Concomitant use with riociguat","Severe heart failure (NYHA class IV)","Hypovolemia"]

⚠️ Warnings & Precautions

["May cause severe hypotension, especially in volume-depleted patients or those on other antihypertensives.","Avoid abrupt discontinuation as it may worsen angina.","Use with caution in patients with glaucoma or increased intraocular pressure.","May cause ulceration of the skin, mucous membranes, and gastrointestinal tract. Discontinue if ulceration occurs.","Use with caution in patients with severe renal or hepatic impairment.","Not recommended for use in children due to lack of safety and efficacy data.","Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the blood pressure-lowering effects."]

🤱 Lactation Safety

Nicorandil is excreted in breast milk. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking this medicine. Consult your doctor for alternative options.

💊 Overdose Management

Overdose may cause severe hypotension, tachycardia, and dizziness. Treatment is supportive and symptomatic. If overdose occurs, seek immediate medical attention. Gastric lavage may be considered if ingestion is recent. Monitor vital signs and provide cardiovascular support as needed.

⏰ Missed Dose

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 take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

Additional Safety Advice

General Safety

Take this medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not stop taking it suddenly without medical advice, as this can worsen your angina. Avoid alcohol while taking this medicine because it can increase the risk of low blood pressure and dizziness. Stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position to prevent dizziness. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not take this medicine if you are allergic to nicorandil or any of its ingredients. Keep this medicine out of reach of children. Store it at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.

👴 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 monitor closely for dizziness, falls, and hypotension.

🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)

If you are planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor before taking this medicine. Safety in pregnancy is not established, and alternative treatments may be considered.

🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations

Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking this medicine. It may interact with certain anesthetic agents and affect blood pressure during surgery. Your doctor may advise temporary discontinuation before surgery.

🦷 Dental Procedures

Inform your dentist that you are taking this medicine, as it may cause hypotension during dental procedures. Monitor blood pressure and take precautions to prevent dizziness.

💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results

🏃
Maintain a healthy weight to reduce the workload on your heart.
🥗
Engage in regular low-impact exercise such as walking or swimming, as advised by your doctor.
😴
Follow a heart-healthy diet low in saturated fats and sodium.
💧
Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
🧘
Manage stress through relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
🌞
Get adequate sleep to support heart health.

🏋️ Exercise Considerations

Moderate exercise is generally safe and beneficial, but avoid strenuous activities that trigger angina. Always warm up and cool down. If you experience chest pain, dizziness, or shortness of breath during exercise, stop and rest. Consult your doctor before starting any new exercise program.

🥗 Diet Recommendations

Include omega-3 rich foods like fish, flaxseeds, and walnuts.
Reduce intake of processed and fried foods.
Eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
Limit salt and sugar intake.
Stay well hydrated.

💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life

This medicine may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Most people can continue their normal work activities with appropriate precautions.

🛑 When to Stop This Medicine

Do not stop taking this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience serious side effects such as severe hypotension, ulceration, or allergic reactions, seek immediate medical advice. Your doctor may adjust the dose or switch to an alternative medicine.

📅 Long-Term Use Effects

Long-term use of this medicine is generally well-tolerated. However, regular monitoring of blood pressure, heart rate, and symptoms is recommended. Rarely, long-term use may be associated with ulceration of the skin, mucous membranes, or gastrointestinal tract. Periodic liver function tests may be advised if symptoms occur. Do not stop the medicine without medical advice.

🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches

These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.

Lifestyle modifications

Heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, smoking cessation, and stress management can complement medicine for angina.

Evidence: Well-established
Revascularization procedures

Angioplasty or bypass surgery may be considered for severe coronary artery disease.

Evidence: Well-established
Cardiac rehabilitation

Supervised exercise and education programs can improve cardiovascular health.

Evidence: Well-established

💉 Vaccination Considerations

💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated

No specific vaccine interactions are known. However, consult your doctor before receiving any vaccine while on this medicine.

📦 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 along with a copy of your prescription. Keep it in your carry-on luggage to avoid loss. Store at room temperature and protect from extreme heat or moisture. If crossing time zones, adjust dosing times gradually in consultation with your doctor. Check local customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.

💰 Cost Analysis & Savings

👥 Real Patient Stories

Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.

👤 A 58-year-old man with chronic stable angina
He was prescribed this medicine twice daily along with his other heart medicines. After a few weeks, he noticed fewer angina attacks and could walk longer distances without chest pain. He initially experienced headaches but they subsided after a week. He emphasized taking the medicine regularly and avoiding alcohol.
💡 Lesson: Consistent use and lifestyle modifications significantly improve outcomes in angina patients.
👤 A 65-year-old woman with angina and mild heart failure
She started this medicine as an add-on to her heart failure treatment. Her exercise tolerance improved, but she experienced dizziness when standing up quickly. Her doctor advised her to rise slowly and monitor her blood pressure. She learned to manage her symptoms with lifestyle adjustments.
💡 Lesson: Elderly patients may be more sensitive to side effects and need careful monitoring.

💬 Questions Patients Often Ask

Q: How long does it take to work?

A: This medicine starts working within 30 to 60 minutes after oral administration, but its full benefits in preventing angina may take a few weeks of regular use.

Q: Can I take this medicine with food?

A: Yes, you can take it with or without food. Taking it with food may help reduce stomach upset.

Q: What should I do if I miss a dose?

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 the dose.

Q: Is this medicine safe during pregnancy?

A: Safety in pregnancy is not established. Consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

Q: Can I stop taking this medicine suddenly?

A: No, do not stop taking this medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may worsen your angina.

🤔 Common Patient Concerns

💭 These are the concerns patients most commonly raise

  • Can I take this medicine long-term?
  • Will it affect my kidney function?
  • Can I drive after taking this medicine?
  • Does it interact with my blood pressure medicine?
  • What if I miss a dose?
  • Can I drink alcohol while taking this?

🔄 Substitutes for pca 10mg tablet

View All

Alternative brands with exact same active ingredient:

Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.

🛑 Myths vs. Facts

  • Myth: This medicine can be taken for immediate relief of an angina attack.
    Fact: This medicine is for prevention of angina attacks, not for immediate relief. For acute attacks, use fast-acting nitrates as prescribed.
  • Myth: This medicine can be taken with sildenafil without any risk.
    Fact: Combining this medicine with sildenafil can cause severe hypotension and is contraindicated.
  • Myth: This medicine is safe to take during pregnancy.
    Fact: Safety in pregnancy is not established. Consult your doctor before use.

🔄 Alternative Options

Generic Alternatives

  • Nicorandil 10 mg tablet

Brand Alternatives

  • Asnicor 10mg Tablet
  • Nicorandil 10mg Tablet (various brands)

📊 Comparison with Similar Medicines

[{"medicine":"Nicorandil","class":"Potassium channel activator","primary_use":"Angina prevention","route":"Oral","common_side_effects":"Headache, flushing, dizziness"},{"medicine":"Isosorbide mononitrate","class":"Nitrate","primary_use":"Angina prevention","route":"Oral","common_side_effects":"Headache, hypotension, dizziness"},{"medicine":"Ranolazine","class":"Late sodium current inhibitor","primary_use":"Chronic angina","route":"Oral","common_side_effects":"Dizziness, constipation, nausea"}]

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