Sacubitril Medications

Sacubitril Info

What is Sacubitril?

Sacubitril belongs to a class of medicines known as neprilysin inhibitors. It is used together with an angiotensin-II receptor blocker to help the heart work more efficiently. In Hong Kong, sacubitril is available only as part of a combined tablet.

Medications with Sacubitril

The most common product that contains sacubitril is Entresto, a fixed-dose tablet that pairs sacubitril with valsartan. Entresto is supplied in several strength options, such as 24 mg/26 mg, 49 mg/51 mg and 97 mg/103 mg of sacubitril/valsartan respectively. The tablets are film-coated and come in plain-white or marked versions to help differentiate strengths. Entresto is the only sacubitril-containing medicine authorised by the Hong Kong Department of Health and is marketed under the brand name Entresto, while the generic description is sacubitril/valsartan tablets.

What Does Sacubitril Treat?

• Chronic heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) - The combination helps relieve symptoms such as breathlessness and reduces the risk of hospital admission.
• Heart failure-related fluid buildup - By enhancing natural peptides that promote fluid excretion, sacubitril contributes to less swelling in the legs and abdomen.
• Improved cardiac function - Patients often experience better exercise tolerance because the heart pumps more effectively.
• Secondary management of high blood pressure - When paired with valsartan, the tablet can also aid in lowering systemic blood pressure, supporting overall cardiovascular health.

These uses are recognised by the local regulatory authority and are reflected in the product’s official labelling.

How Sacubitril Works

Sacubitril stops an enzyme called neprilysin from breaking down natriuretic peptides-natural substances that help widen blood vessels and remove excess salt and water. At the same time, valsartan blocks the action of angiotensin-II, a hormone that narrows vessels and raises blood pressure. Together, they improve the balance of fluid and pressure, which eases the workload on the heart. Patients generally notice relief of symptoms within a few weeks, although the full benefit may develop gradually over several months.

Safety Information

Common Side Effects

• Mild dizziness or light-headedness, especially when standing up quickly.
• Cough or a sensation of a blocked throat.
• Slight increase in blood potassium levels, which may cause a tingling feeling.
• Temporary reduction in blood pressure, leading to occasional faintness.

These effects are usually short-lived and resolve without medical intervention.

Serious Reactions

• Severe swelling of the face, lips or tongue, which may indicate an allergic response.
• Sudden difficulty breathing or wheezing.
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat that feels unusually fast or skipped.
• Persistent low blood pressure causing fainting or confusion.

If any of these occur, seek emergency medical help immediately.

Who Should Be Cautious

• People with a history of angio-edema (swelling of the deeper layers of the skin).
• Individuals with significant kidney impairment, as the medication is eliminated mainly by the kidneys.
• Patients who are pregnant or planning pregnancy should avoid the combination, as safety has not been established.
• Those with known hypersensitivity to sacubitril, valsartan or any tablet excipients.

Interaction Awareness

• Other blood pressure medicines - Taking additional antihypertensive drugs may cause an unwanted fall in blood pressure.
• Potassium-rich supplements or salty foods - These can raise potassium levels further.
• Certain anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) - May lessen the blood-pressure-lowering effect and stress the kidneys.
• Alcohol - Excessive intake can increase dizziness and low-blood-pressure symptoms.

For a full list of possible interactions, refer to the specific product information attached to each Entresto tablet.

What to Know Before Using

Store Entresto tablets at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep them out of reach of children. Treatment duration varies: some patients use the medicine for many years to manage chronic heart failure, while others may need it only for short-term stabilization. Always follow the instructions printed on the packaging and the guidance provided with each specific product. For detailed usage, dosing, administration, refer to your specific medication’s information.

Key Terms

Neprilysin: An enzyme that breaks down helpful cardiac peptides; inhibiting it allows those peptides to work longer.

Angiotensin-II receptor blocker (ARB): A drug that stops the effects of angiotensin-II, a hormone that raises blood pressure.

Ejection fraction: The percentage of blood the left ventricle pumps out with each heartbeat; lower values indicate reduced heart function.

Information Disclaimer

This article offers general educational information about sacubitril as an active substance used in various medicines. Its purpose is to help patients better understand the ingredient and the conditions it is used to treat. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice or for the specific instructions provided with individual products. Medicines containing sacubitril may differ in formulation, strength, and directions for use. Always consult the labeling of your particular medication and follow your healthcare provider’s guidance for complete information on proper use, dosage, and safety.