Nifedipine - Drug Information

Generic Name : Nifedipine
Pronunciation : nye fed' i peen

ICD Code : Y52.1 | Therapeutic Classification : Calcium Channel Blockers

Trade Name(s) :

India - Calbloc, Nifedine, Nicardia Retard, Adalat Retard, Calcigard, Cardules, Depin, Needin, N - Dip, Calbloc, Myogard, Nf, Nifelat Retard, Calnif Retard, Depicor, Nifedine, Nicardia, Calcigard, Cardules, Depin, Myogard, Cardules, Nifedine, Depicor, Nicardia, Calcigard, Depin, Needin, N - Dip, Calnif Retard


International - Adalat, Procardia, Afeditab, Nifediac.

Why is Nifedipine Prescribed? (Indications)

This medication is a calcium channel blocker, prescribed for angina (chest pain), high blood pressure and abnormal heart rhythms. It works by relaxing blood vessels.

When should Nifedipine not to be taken? (Contraindications)

Contraindicated in patients with very low blood pressure or shock due to heart problems and hypersensitivity.

What is the dosage of Nifedipine?

Adult: PO- The starting dose is one 10 mg 3 times/day. The usual effective dose range is 10-20 mg three times daily.

How should Nifedipine be taken?

It comes as a tablet and capsule to take by mouth, with or without food.

What are the warnings and precautions for Nifedipine?

* Caution should be exercised in patients with history of chest pain, blood vessel problems, recent heart attack, irregular heartbeat; low blood pressure, liver or kidney disease, swelling in the extremities, fluid in lungs, any allergy, who are taking other medications, elderly, during pregnancy and breastfeeding.
* It may cause dizziness or lightheadedness, do not drive a car or operate machinery while taking this medication.

What are the side effects of Nifedipine?

Most Common - Dizziness, lightheadedness, or faintness, headache, weakness, flushing, nausea, heartburn, muscle cramps, sore throat and swelling of feet or lower legs.
Heart - Swelling in the extremities and palpitations.
Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, cramps and flatulence.
Respiratory - Nasal and chest congestion and shortness of breath.
Musculoskeletal - Inflammation, joint stiffness and muscle cramps.
Central Nervous System - Shakiness, nervousness, jitteriness, sleep disturbances, blurred vision and difficulty in balance.
Miscellaneous - Skin inflammation, itching, hives, fever, increased sweating, chills and sexual disorders.

What are the other precautions for Nifedipine?

* Avoid excess dosage.

What are the storage conditions for Nifedipine?

Store it at controlled room temperature (15� to 25�C).

Schedule H

Prescription drugs - Drugs to be sold only under the prescription of a Registered Medical Practitioner.