Verquvo Dosage: Form, strengths, how to take, and more
Verquvo (vericiguat) is a prescription drug that’s used to lower the risk of certain complications in adults with symptomatic heart failure. The drug comes as tablet you swallow. It’s usually taken once per day as directed.
Verquvo is used in adults with symptomatic long-standing heart failure and a reduced ejection fraction who have been:
- prescribed intravenous (IV) diuretic medications to remove excess water and sodium from their body or
- hospitalized for heart failure complications
The active ingredient in Verquvo is vericiguat. Verquvo belongs to a group of drugs called a soluble guanylate cyclase stimulator.
This article describes the dosages of Verquvo, as well as its strengths and how to take it. To learn more about Verquvo, see this in-depth article.
Boxed warning: Risk of fetal harm
Verquvo has a boxed warning about the risk of fetal harm. A boxed warning is the most serious warning from the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It alerts doctors and patients about drug effects that may be dangerous.
Taking Verquvo during pregnancy can cause harm to a fetus. If you are able to become pregnant, your doctor will do a pregnancy test before you begin Verquvo. They will not prescribe Verquvo if you’re pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
Your doctor will recommend using an effective type of birth control while taking Verquvo and for one month after stopping the medication if you can become pregnant.
You can also talk with your doctor to learn more about this warning.
What’s Verquvo’s dosage?
This section describes the usual dosages of Verquvo. Keep reading to learn more.
What’s Verquvo’s form?
Verquvo is available as an oral tablet.
What strengths does Verquvo come in?
Verquvo comes in three strengths:
- 2.5 milligrams (mg)
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
What are the usual dosages of Verquvo?
Your doctor will likely start you on a low dosage and adjust it over time to reach the right amount for you.
The information below describes dosages that are commonly used or recommended. But be sure to take the dosage your doctor prescribes for you. They’ll determine the best dosage to fit your needs. In some cases, doctors may adjust your dosage from those shown below.
Dosage for heart failure
Verquvo is used to reduce the risk of hospitalization and death from heart failure. The typical starting dosage is 2.5 mg taken once per day. You doctor may recommend doubling your dose of Verquvo every 2 weeks until you reach the maintenance dosage of 10 mg taken once per day.
If you have questions about your dosage of Verquvo, talk with your doctor to learn more.
How to take Verquvo
Verquvo comes as a tablet you swallow. You’ll take it once per day. It’s best to take it around the same time daily to keep consistent levels of the medication in your body for it to work for your condition.
Take Verquvo with food. You can crush Verquvo tablets if you have trouble swallowing pills. You can crush the Verquvo tablet and mix it into water right before you take it. Drink the entire contents to get the full dose of the medication. If you have questions about how to take Verquvo, talk with your doctor or pharmacist to learn more.
Is Verquvo used long term?
Yes, Verquvo is usually used as a long-term treatment. If you and your doctor determine that it’s safe and effective for your condition, you’ll likely take it long term.
What should be done in case of overdose?
Do not take more Verquvo than your doctor prescribes, as this can lead to harmful effects. Taking too much Verquvo may cause very low blood pressure.
Symptoms of overdose
Symptoms of very low blood pressure can include:
- blurry vision
- nausea
- clammy skin
- lightheadedness
- dizziness
- fatigue (low energy)
What to do in case you take too much Verquvo
Call your doctor right away if you think you’ve taken too much Verquvo. You can also call 800-222-1222 to reach America’s Poison Centers or use its online resource. But if you have severe symptoms, immediately call 911 (or your local emergency number) or go to the nearest emergency room.
Frequently asked questions
Below are answers to some commonly asked questions about Verquvo’s dosage.
How does the dosage of Verquvo compare with the dosage of Entresto?
The dosages for these drugs are slightly different. Verquvo (vericiguat) and Entresto (sacubitril/valsartan) are used to treat complications from heart failure. But they belong to different groups of medications and work differently.
Both drugs are available as an oral tablet. Verquvo has one active ingredient while Entresto has two active ingredients. (An active ingredient is what makes a drug work in the body.)
Verquvo is taken once per day, and Entresto is typically taken twice per day.
Your doctor will prescribe the drug and dosage that’s right for you. If you have questions about Verquvo versus Entresto for heart failure, talk with your doctor to learn more.
How long does it take Verquvo to start working?
Verquvo starts to work after your first dose. Because of how the drug works, you likely won’t feel the drug working in your body. But your doctor will monitor you during treatment to check whether the drug is working to treat your condition.
What is Verquvo and how is it used?
Verquvo is a medication used to help treat certain heart conditions, specifically for chronic heart failure. It works by helping the heart pump blood more effectively. Patients prescribed Verquvo typically have a history of heart failure and need assistance in managing their symptoms.
In what forms is Verquvo available?
Verquvo is available in the form of oral tablets. These tablets are designed to be taken by mouth with or without food, depending on the patient’s preference or healthcare provider’s advice.
What are the available strengths of Verquvo?
Verquvo tablets are available in two strengths: 2.5 mg and 5 mg. The specific strength prescribed to a patient will depend on their individual health needs and how they respond to the medication.
How should I take Verquvo?
Verquvo should be taken exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Typically, it is taken once a day. It’s important to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain an even level in your bloodstream. Swallow the tablet whole with water.
Can I adjust my Verquvo dosage on my own?
No, you should not adjust your Verquvo dosage without consulting your healthcare provider. The dosage is carefully determined based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Any changes should be made under medical supervision.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Verquvo?
If you miss a dose of Verquvo, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed one.
Are there any specific instructions I should follow when taking Verquvo?
It’s important to follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when taking Verquvo. Do not discontinue use without consulting them first, even if you feel better. Regular monitoring by your healthcare provider will ensure the medication is working effectively.
Can I take Verquvo with other medications?
Before starting Verquvo, inform your healthcare provider of all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and herbal supplements. Some drugs can interact with Verquvo, which may affect how it works or increase side effects.
What should I do in case of an overdose?
In case of an overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose might include severe dizziness or fainting. Having emergency contact information readily accessible is advised.
What are the storage requirements for Verquvo?
Store Verquvo tablets at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the medication in its original container and out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.
Always rely on your healthcare provider’s expertise for personalized advice and guidance regarding Verquvo or any other medications you may be taking.
If you have other questions about what to expect from your Verquvo treatment, talk with your doctor.
Disclaimer: adoctor has made every effort to make certain that all information is factually correct, comprehensive, and up to date. However, this article should not be used as a substitute for the knowledge and expertise of a licensed healthcare professional. You should always consult your doctor or another healthcare professional before taking any medication. The drug information contained herein is subject to change and is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, warnings, drug interactions, allergic reactions, or adverse effects. The absence of warnings or other information for a given drug does not indicate that the drug or drug combination is safe, effective, or appropriate for all patients or all specific uses.
This is a really informative post! It’s important to have a clear understanding of the dosage and administration of Verquvo, especially for those managing heart failure conditions. It’s great to see such detailed information on the available forms and strengths. The guidance on how to properly take this medication and tips for discussing with healthcare providers is particularly helpful. Thanks for sharing!