What is Nifedipine for ?

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

How does Nifedipine work ?

It works by relaxing blood vessels.

How should Nifedipine be used ?

It comes as a tablet and capsule to take by mouth, with or without food. Adult: PO- The starting dose is one 10 mg 3 timesday. The usual effective dose range is 10-20 mg three times daily.

Common side effects of Nifedipine ?

Long-acting tablet shell in the stool. Feeling dizzy. Rise slowly over a few minutes when sitting or lying down. Be careful climbing. Flushing. Wearing layers of clothes or summer clothes and staying in cool places may help. Headache. Upset stomach or throwing up. Many small meals, good mouth care, sucking hard, sugar-free candy, or chewing sugar-free gum may help. Hard stools (constipation). Drinking more liquids, working out, or adding fiber to your diet may help. Talk with your doctor about a stool softener or laxative. Swelling in the arms or legs.

What do I do if I miss a dose ?

Take a missed dose as soon as you think about it. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses. Do not change the dose or stop this drug. Talk with the doctor.

What precautions should I take when taking Nifedipine ?

If you have an allergy to nifedipine or any other part of this drug. Tell your doctor if you are allergic to any drugs. Make sure to tell about the allergy and what signs you had. This includes telling about rash; hives; itching; shortness of breath; wheezing; cough; swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat; or any other signs. Long-acting products: If you have a narrowing of the GI (gastrointestinal) tract or a bowel block. Adalat® CC: - If you are on a low-galactose or lactose-free diet.

When do I need to seek medical help ?

If you think there was an overdose, call your local poison control center or ER right away. Signs of a very bad reaction to the drug. These include wheezing; chest tightness; fever; itching; bad cough; blue or gray skin color; seizures; or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. A fast heartbeat. Very bad dizziness or passing out. Trouble breathing. Feeling very tired or weak. Very bad headache. Any rash. Side effect or health problem is not better or you are feeling worse.

Can I take Nifedipine with other medicines ?

Sometimes drugs are not safe when you take them with certain other drugs and food. - Taking them together can cause bad side effects. - Be sure to talk to your doctor about all the drugs you take.

Are there any food restrictions ?

Avoid Alcohol.

How do I store Nifedipine ?

Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. - Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.

Pregnancy Category ?

Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.

Therapeutic Classification ?

Anti-Anginal Drugs , Calcium Antagonists.