Nifedipine effects. Nifedipine: Uses, Side Effects, and Important Safety Information
What are the common side effects of nifedipine. How does nifedipine work to treat angina and high blood pressure. When should you seek immediate medical attention while taking nifedipine. What precautions should older adults take when using this medication.
Understanding Nifedipine: A Comprehensive Overview
Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker medication commonly prescribed to treat certain cardiovascular conditions. It works by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily throughout the body. This action helps reduce blood pressure and prevents certain types of chest pain (angina).
Primary Uses of Nifedipine
- Prevention of angina attacks
- Treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Management of Raynaud’s phenomenon
For angina prevention, nifedipine enables patients to exercise more and decreases the frequency of angina attacks. However, it’s important to note that nifedipine is not used to treat acute angina attacks. For immediate relief of chest pain, other medications like sublingual nitroglycerin are typically prescribed.
How Nifedipine Works in the Body
Nifedipine belongs to a class of medications known as calcium channel blockers. These drugs work by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels and the heart.
Mechanism of Action
- Blocks calcium channels in blood vessel walls
- Reduces calcium entry into smooth muscle cells
- Causes relaxation of blood vessels (vasodilation)
- Decreases peripheral vascular resistance
- Lowers blood pressure and reduces workload on the heart
By relaxing blood vessels, nifedipine improves blood flow and oxygen delivery to the heart muscle. This action helps prevent angina attacks and reduces the symptoms of hypertension.
Common Side Effects of Nifedipine
While nifedipine is generally well-tolerated, it can cause several side effects. These common side effects occur in more than 1 in 100 people taking the medication:
- Headaches
- Dizziness
- Flushing
- Palpitations (fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat)
- Swollen legs or ankles (edema)
- Constipation
Is nifedipine likely to cause headaches? Yes, headaches are a common side effect, especially when first starting the medication. They usually subside after the first week of treatment. To manage headaches, rest, stay hydrated, and avoid excessive alcohol consumption. Over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol are safe to use with nifedipine.
Managing Dizziness
If you experience dizziness while taking nifedipine, it’s crucial to take precautions. Stop what you’re doing and sit or lie down until the feeling passes. Avoid driving, cycling, or operating machinery when feeling dizzy. If dizziness persists for more than a few days, consult your doctor.
Serious Side Effects and When to Seek Medical Attention
Although rare, nifedipine can cause serious side effects in less than 1 in 1,000 people. It’s essential to be aware of these potential complications and know when to seek immediate medical attention.
Signs of Liver Problems
Stop taking nifedipine and contact medical professionals immediately if you notice:
- Yellowing of the whites of your eyes
- Yellowing of your skin (may be less noticeable on darker skin tones)
These symptoms could indicate liver problems and require prompt medical evaluation.
Chest Pain
When should you call emergency services if experiencing chest pain while on nifedipine? Call 999 immediately if you experience chest pain that:
- Does not stop after a few minutes
- Is new or worse than usual (for those with existing angina)
Persistent or worsening chest pain could be a sign of a heart attack and requires immediate medical attention.
Allergic Reactions to Nifedipine
In rare cases, nifedipine can cause a severe allergic reaction known as anaphylaxis. This is a medical emergency that requires immediate treatment.
Are there specific symptoms that indicate a serious allergic reaction to nifedipine? Yes, seek emergency medical care if you experience any of the following after taking nifedipine:
- Skin rash (may include itching, redness, swelling, blistering, or peeling)
- Wheezing
- Tightness in the chest or throat
- Difficulty breathing or talking
- Swelling of the mouth, face, lips, tongue, or throat
These symptoms could indicate anaphylaxis, which requires immediate treatment in a hospital setting.
Special Considerations for Older Adults
Older adults should exercise caution when taking nifedipine, as they may be more susceptible to certain side effects. It’s crucial for elderly patients to discuss the risks and benefits of nifedipine with their healthcare provider before starting treatment.
Potential Concerns for Elderly Patients
- Increased risk of falls due to dizziness or lightheadedness
- Greater sensitivity to blood pressure-lowering effects
- Possible interactions with other medications commonly used by older adults
- Higher risk of edema (swelling) in the legs and ankles
How can older adults minimize the risks associated with nifedipine use? To reduce potential complications, elderly patients should:
- Start with a lower dose and gradually increase as tolerated
- Monitor blood pressure regularly
- Report any unusual side effects to their healthcare provider promptly
- Avoid sudden changes in position to prevent dizziness
- Stay well-hydrated and maintain a balanced diet
Proper Usage and Administration of Nifedipine
To maximize the benefits of nifedipine and minimize potential side effects, it’s essential to take the medication as prescribed by your healthcare provider.
Key Points for Proper Nifedipine Use
- Take nifedipine regularly at the same time(s) each day
- Do not crush, chew, or break extended-release tablets
- Swallow tablets whole with a glass of water
- Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking nifedipine
- Do not stop taking nifedipine suddenly without consulting your doctor
Can nifedipine be taken with or without food? Nifedipine can be taken with or without food, but it’s best to be consistent. If you choose to take it with food, do so consistently to maintain steady blood levels of the medication.
Missed Dose Guidelines
If you miss a dose of nifedipine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Interactions and Precautions
Nifedipine can interact with various medications, supplements, and certain foods. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all the substances you’re taking to avoid potential complications.
Common Interactions
- Other blood pressure medications
- Certain antibiotics (e.g., rifampicin)
- Antifungal medications (e.g., ketoconazole)
- Anticonvulsants (e.g., phenytoin, carbamazepine)
- St. John’s Wort
- Grapefruit and grapefruit juice
Why should grapefruit be avoided while taking nifedipine? Grapefruit and its juice can significantly increase the concentration of nifedipine in your blood, potentially leading to more pronounced side effects. This interaction occurs because grapefruit inhibits an enzyme in the intestines that normally breaks down nifedipine.
Precautions for Specific Populations
Certain groups of people may need to exercise extra caution when using nifedipine:
- Pregnant women: Nifedipine may pose risks to the developing fetus
- Breastfeeding mothers: The drug can pass into breast milk
- People with liver disease: May require dose adjustments
- Individuals with heart failure: Close monitoring is necessary
- Patients with severe aortic stenosis: Nifedipine may be contraindicated
Always consult your healthcare provider about the appropriateness of nifedipine for your specific situation.
Monitoring and Follow-up Care
Regular monitoring is essential when taking nifedipine to ensure its effectiveness and detect any potential complications early.
Recommended Monitoring Practices
- Regular blood pressure checks
- Periodic blood tests to assess liver and kidney function
- Monitoring for signs of fluid retention (edema)
- Evaluation of any new or worsening symptoms
How often should blood pressure be checked while on nifedipine? Initially, blood pressure should be monitored weekly or biweekly until it stabilizes. Once stable, monthly checks are typically sufficient, but follow your doctor’s recommendations for your specific situation.
When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider
Reach out to your doctor if you experience:
- Persistent or severe side effects
- Symptoms of an allergic reaction
- Unusual changes in your blood pressure readings
- New or worsening chest pain
- Signs of liver problems (yellowing of skin or eyes)
Remember, while this information provides a comprehensive overview of nifedipine, it’s not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance regarding your medication regimen.
Side effects of nifedipine – NHS
Common side effects
These common side effects of nifedipine happen in more than 1 in 100 people. There are things you can do to help cope with them:
Headaches
Make sure you rest and drink plenty of fluids. Try not to drink too much alcohol. Ask your pharmacist to recommend a painkiller. Paracetamol is safe to take with nifedipine.
Headaches should usually go away after the first week of taking nifedipine. Talk to your doctor if they last longer than a week or are severe.
Feeling dizzy
If nifedipine makes you feel dizzy, stop what you’re doing and sit or lie down until you feel better. Do not drive, ride a bike or operate tools or machinery until the dizziness passes. Speak to a doctor if the dizzy feelings last for more than a couple of days.
Flushing
This usually happens when you first start taking nifedipine. Try cutting down on coffee, tea and alcohol. If the flushing is also making you feel hot, it might help to keep the room cool and use a fan. You could also spray your face with cool water or sip cold or iced drinks.
The flushing should go away after a few days, so try to carry on taking nifedipine for this time. If it does not go away or is causing you problems, contact your doctor.
A fast, pounding or irregular heartbeat (palpitations)
If this happens regularly after you take your medicine, try to take it at a time when you can sit or lie down while the symptoms are at their worst. It might also help to cut down on alcohol, smoking, caffeine and big meals as these can make the problem worse.
If you have a history of heart disease, and you are having these symptoms for a long time, these symptoms do not improve, or you are concerned, speak to your doctor.
Swollen legs or ankles (oedema)
Try raising your legs when you’re sitting down.
Constipation
Eat plenty of high-fibre foods such as fresh fruit and vegetables and cereals, and drink lots of water. Try to exercise regularly, for example by going for a daily walk or run. It’s OK to occasionally use a laxative.
Speak to a doctor or pharmacist if the advice on how to cope does not help and a side effect is still bothering you or lasts more than a few days.
Serious side effects
Serious side effects after taking nifedipine are rare and happen in less than 1 in 1,000 people.
Stop taking nifedipine and contact 111 straight away if the whites of your eyes turn yellow, or your skin turns yellow although this may be less obvious on brown or black skin. These can be signs of liver problems.
Go to 111.nhs.uk or call 111.
Immediate action required: Call 999 now if:
- you get chest pain that does not stop after a few minutes, or is new or worse if you already have angina
Chest pain is a possible sign of a heart attack and needs to be checked as soon as possible.
Serious allergic reaction
In rare cases, it’s possible to have a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) to nifedipine.
Immediate action required: Call 999 or go to A&E now if:
- you get a skin rash that may include itchy, red, swollen, blistered or peeling skin
- you’re wheezing
- you get tightness in the chest or throat
- you have trouble breathing or talking
- your mouth, face, lips, tongue or throat start swelling
You could be having a serious allergic reaction and may need immediate treatment in hospital.
Other side effects
These are not all the side effects of nifedipine. For a full list, see the leaflet inside your medicine packet.
Information:
You can report any suspected side effect using the Yellow Card safety scheme.
Visit Yellow Card for further information.
Page last reviewed: 18 February 2022
Next review due: 18 February 2025
Nifedipine Oral: Uses, Side Effects, Interactions, Pictures, Warnings & Dosing
Uses
This medication is used to prevent certain types of chest pain (angina). It may allow you to exercise more and decrease the frequency of angina attacks. Nifedipine belongs to a class of medications known as calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. This medication must be taken regularly to be effective.
It should not be used to treat attacks of chest pain when they occur. Use other medications (such as sublingual nitroglycerin) to relieve attacks of chest pain as directed by your doctor. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details.Older adults should discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with their doctor or pharmacist, as well as other possibly safer forms of nifedipine (such as the long-acting tablets).
How to use nifedipine oral
Take this medication by mouth with or without food as directed by your doctor, usually 3 times daily. Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the capsule.
The dosage is based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while using this medication unless your doctor or pharmacist says you may do so safely. Grapefruit can increase the chance of side effects with this medicine.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Use this medication regularly to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day.
Tell your doctor if your condition worsens (for example, your chest pain worsens or is more frequent).
Side Effects
Dizziness, flushing, weakness, swelling ankles/feet, constipation, and headache may occur. If any of these effects last or get worse, tell your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
To reduce dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a sitting or lying position.
Remember that this medication has been prescribed because your doctor has judged that the benefit to you is greater than the risk of side effects. Many people using this medication do not have serious side effects.
Tell your doctor right away if you have any serious side effects, including: fast/irregular/pounding heartbeat, fainting, vision changes.
Although this medication is effective in preventing chest pain (angina), some people who already have severe heart disease may rarely develop worsening chest pain or a heart attack after starting this medication or increasing the dose.
Get medical help right away if you experience: worsening chest pain, symptoms of a heart attack (such as chest/jaw/left arm pain, shortness of breath, unusual sweating).
A very serious allergic reaction to this drug is rare. However, get medical help right away if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including: rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, trouble breathing.
This is not a complete list of possible side effects. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
In the US – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or at www.fda.gov/medwatch.
In Canada – Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to Health Canada at 1-866-234-2345.
Precautions
Before taking this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies.
This product may contain inactive ingredients, which can cause allergic reactions or other problems. Talk to your pharmacist for more details.
Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: certain heart problems (such as heart failure, aortic stenosis), liver problems, kidney problems.
Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist about all the products you use (including prescription drugs, nonprescription drugs, and herbal products).
This drug may make you dizzy. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can make you more dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs alertness until you can do it safely. Limit alcoholic beverages. Talk to your doctor if you are using marijuana (cannabis).
Older adults may be more sensitive to the side effects of this drug, especially dizziness, constipation, or swelling ankles/feet.
During pregnancy, this medication should be used only when clearly needed. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This medication passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
Interactions
See also the How to Use section.
Drug interactions may change how your medications work or increase your risk for serious side effects. This document does not contain all possible drug interactions. Keep a list of all the products you use (including prescription/nonprescription drugs and herbal products) and share it with your doctor and pharmacist. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medicines without your doctor’s approval.
Other medications can affect the removal of nifedipine from your body, which may affect how nifedipine works. Examples include apalutamide, cimetidine, enzalutamide, mitotane, quinupristin/dalfopristin, St. John’s wort, rifamycins (such as rifabutin, rifampin), drugs used to treat seizures (such as carbamazepine, phenytoin), among others.
Some products have ingredients that could raise your heart rate or worsen your chest pain.
Tell your pharmacist what products you are using, and ask how to use them safely (especially cough-and-cold products, diet aids, or NSAIDs such as ibuprofen/naproxen).
Does nifedipine oral interact with other drugs you are taking?
Enter your medication into the WebMD interaction checker
Overdose
If someone has overdosed and has serious symptoms such as passing out or trouble breathing, call 911. Otherwise, call a poison control center right away. US residents can call their local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222. Canada residents can call a provincial poison control center.
Do not share this medication with others.
Lab and/or medical tests (such as blood pressure, liver/kidney tests, electrocardiogram) may be done while you are taking this medication. Keep all medical and lab appointments. Consult your doctor for more details.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is near the time of the next dose, skip the missed dose.
Take your next dose at the regular time. Do not double the dose to catch up.
Store at room temperature away from light and moisture. Do not store in the bathroom. Keep all medications away from children and pets.
Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Properly discard this product when it is expired or no longer needed. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company.
Images
nifedipine 10 mg capsule
Color: reddish-brownShape: oblongImprint: IMI 10
This medicine is a reddish-brown, oblong, capsule imprinted with “IMI 10”.
nifedipine 10 mg capsule
Color: whiteShape: oblongImprint: HP 194
This medicine is a reddish-brown, oblong, capsule imprinted with “IMI 10”.
nifedipine 20 mg capsule
Color: redShape: oblongImprint: N20
This medicine is a reddish-brown, oblong, capsule imprinted with “IMI 10”.
nifedipine 10 mg capsule
Color: orangeShape: oblongImprint: N10
This medicine is a reddish-brown, oblong, capsule imprinted with “IMI 10”.
nifedipine 20 mg capsule
Color: peachShape: oblongImprint: HP 195
This medicine is a reddish-brown, oblong, capsule imprinted with “IMI 10”.
nifedipine 10 mg capsule
Color: yellowShape: oblongImprint: logo and 497
This medicine is a reddish-brown, oblong, capsule imprinted with “IMI 10”.
nifedipine 20 mg capsule
Color: red brownShape: oblongImprint: logo and 530
This medicine is a reddish-brown, oblong, capsule imprinted with “IMI 10”.
nifedipine 10 mg capsule
Color: orangeShape: oblongImprint: PROCARDIA PFIZER 260
This medicine is a reddish-brown, oblong, capsule imprinted with “IMI 10”.
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CONDITIONS OF USE: The information in this database is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of healthcare professionals. The information is not intended to cover all possible uses, directions, precautions, drug interactions or adverse effects, nor should it be construed to indicate that use of a particular drug is safe, appropriate or effective for you or anyone else. A healthcare professional should be consulted before taking any drug, changing any diet or commencing or discontinuing any course of treatment.
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💊 Composition of Nifedipine ✅ Use of Nifedipine Save Search for analogues Interaction Description of the active ingredients of the preparation Nifedipine The scientific information provided is general and cannot be used to make decisions. Update date: 2021.02.01 Marketing authorization holder: VALENTA PHARMACEUTICS, PJSC ATX code: C08CA05 (Nifedipine) Active substance: Rec.INN WHO registered Dosage form
Release form, packaging and composition |
– blisters (2) – packs of cardboard. 
It is metabolized during the “first pass” through the liver. Protein binding is 92-98%. Metabolized in the liver to form inactive metabolites. T 1/2 – about 2 hours Excreted mainly by the kidneys in the form of metabolites and in trace amounts unchanged; 20% is excreted through the intestines as metabolites.| I10 | Essential [primary] hypertension |
| I20 | Angina pectoris [angina pectoris] |
| I20.1 | Angina with documented spasm (Prinzmetal’s angina, variant angina) |
I73. 0 | Raynaud’s syndrome |
Dosage regimen
The method of administration and dosing regimen of a particular drug depends on its form of release and other factors. The optimal dosage regimen is determined by the doctor. Compliance of the dosage form of a particular drug with indications for use and dosing regimen should be strictly observed.
Individual. For oral administration, the initial dose is 10 mg 3-4 times / day. If necessary, the dose is gradually increased to 20 mg 3-4 times / day. In special cases (variant angina pectoris, severe arterial hypertension) for a short time, the dose can be increased to 30 mg 3-4 times / day. For the relief of a hypertensive crisis, as well as an attack of angina pectoris, 10-20 mg (rarely 30 mg) can be used sublingually.
In / in for the relief of an attack of angina pectoris or hypertensive crisis – 5 mg for 4-8 hours.
Intracoronary administration for the relief of acute spasms of the coronary arteries is administered as a bolus of 100-200 mcg.
With stenosis of large coronary vessels, the initial dose is 50-100 mcg.
Maximum daily doses: when taken orally – 120 mg, when administered intravenously – 30 mg.
Side effects
From the side of the cardiovascular system: hyperemia of the skin, feeling of warmth, tachycardia, arterial hypotension, peripheral edema; rarely – bradycardia, ventricular tachycardia, asystole, increased angina attacks.
From the digestive system: nausea, heartburn, diarrhea; rarely – deterioration of liver function; in isolated cases – gingival hyperplasia. With prolonged use in high doses, dyspeptic symptoms, increased activity of hepatic transaminases, intrahepatic cholestasis are possible.
From the side of the central nervous system and peripheral nervous system: headache. With prolonged use in high doses, paresthesia, muscle pain, tremor, mild visual disturbances, and sleep disturbances are possible.
On the part of the hematopoietic system: in isolated cases – leukopenia, thrombocytopenia.
From the urinary system: increased daily diuresis. With prolonged use in high doses, impaired renal function is possible.
From the endocrine system: in isolated cases – gynecomastia.
Allergic reactions: skin rash.
Local reactions: when administered intravenously, burning at the injection site is possible.
Within 1 min after intracoronary administration, a negative inotropic effect of nifedipine, an increase in heart rate, and arterial hypotension are possible; these symptoms gradually disappear after 5-15 minutes.
Contraindications
Arterial hypotension (systolic blood pressure below 90 mmHg), collapse, cardiogenic shock, severe heart failure, severe aortic stenosis; hypersensitivity to nifedipine.
Use during pregnancy and lactation
Adequate and well-controlled studies of the safety of nifedipine in pregnancy have not been conducted. The use of nifedipine during pregnancy is not recommended.
Since nifedipine is excreted in breast milk, its use during lactation should be avoided or breast-feeding should be discontinued during treatment.
In experimental studies , embryotoxic, fetotoxic and teratogenic effects of nifedipine were detected.
Use in hepatic dysfunction
In case of liver dysfunction, nifedipine should only be used in a clinical setting under the strict supervision of a physician. In patients with impaired liver function, high doses of nifedipine should be avoided.
Use in patients with impaired renal function
In patients with impaired renal function, nifedipine should only be used in a clinical setting under strict medical supervision. In patients with impaired renal function, high doses of nifedipine should be avoided.
Elderly use
Elderly patients are more likely to have decreased cerebral blood flow due to severe peripheral vasodilation.
Special instructions
Nifedipine should only be used in the clinic under the strict supervision of a physician in acute myocardial infarction, severe cerebrovascular accident, diabetes mellitus, impaired liver and kidney function, in malignant arterial hypertension and hypovolemia, as well as in patients on hemodialysis.
In patients with impaired liver and / or kidney function, high doses of nifedipine should be avoided. Elderly patients are more likely to have reduced cerebral blood flow due to severe peripheral vasodilation.
When taken orally, nifedipine can be chewed to speed up the effect.
If chest pain occurs during treatment, nifedipine should be discontinued. Cancel nifedipine should be gradual, because with a sudden discontinuation of the reception (especially after long-term treatment), the development of a withdrawal syndrome is possible.
When intracoronary administration in the presence of stenosis of two vessels, nifedipine should not be injected into a third open vessel due to the danger of a pronounced negative inotropic effect.
During the course of treatment avoid drinking alcohol due to the risk of an excessive decrease in blood pressure.
Influence on the ability to drive vehicles and mechanisms
At the beginning of treatment, driving and other potentially hazardous activities that require quick psychomotor reactions should be avoided.
In the course of further treatment, the degree of restriction is determined depending on the individual tolerability of nifedipine.
Drug interactions
When used simultaneously with antihypertensive drugs, diuretics, phenothiazine derivatives, the antihypertensive effect of nifedipine is enhanced.
When used simultaneously with anticholinergics, memory and attention disorders may occur in elderly patients.
When used simultaneously with beta-blockers, severe arterial hypotension may develop; in some cases – the development of heart failure.
When used simultaneously with nitrates, the antianginal effect of nifedipine is enhanced.
When used simultaneously with calcium preparations, the effectiveness of nifedipine decreases due to antagonistic interaction caused by an increase in the concentration of calcium ions in the extracellular fluid.
Cases of development of muscular weakness at simultaneous use with salts of magnesium are described.
When used simultaneously with digoxin, it is possible to slow down the excretion of digoxin from the body and, consequently, increase its concentration in the blood plasma.
When used simultaneously with diltiazem, the antihypertensive effect is enhanced.
With simultaneous use with theophylline, changes in the concentration of theophylline in blood plasma are possible.
Rifampicin induces the activity of liver enzymes, accelerating the metabolism of nifedipine, which leads to a decrease in its effectiveness.
When used simultaneously with phenobarbital, phenytoin, carbamazepine, the concentration of nifedipine in the blood plasma decreases.
There are reports of an increase in plasma concentrations of nifedipine and an increase in its AUC when used simultaneously with fluconazole, itraconazole.
When used simultaneously with fluoxetine, the side effects of nifedipine may be increased.
In some cases, with simultaneous use with quinidine, a decrease in the concentration of quinidine in the blood plasma is possible, and when nifedipine is canceled, a significant increase in the concentration of quinidine is possible, which is accompanied by a prolongation of the QT interval on the ECG.
Cimetidine and, to a lesser extent, ranitidine, increase the plasma concentration of nifedipine and thus enhance its antihypertensive effect.
Ethanol may increase the effects of nifedipine (excessive hypotension), causing dizziness and other adverse reactions.
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Nifedipine . Description of the drug in the reference book Vidal.
What helps, dosage, side effects, composition
THERE ARE CONTRAINDICATIONS. POSSIBLE SIDE EFFECTS. A SPECIALIST’S CONSULTATION IS REQUIRED. 0021
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- Summary
- Ask an expert about the topic
The World Health Organization’s global targets for 2010-2030 include a 33% reduction in hypertension.
Now with this diagnosis live 1.28 billion people on the planet.
Arterial hypertension leads to the development of diseases of the cardiovascular system, brain, and kidneys. And it is one of the leading causes of death for people around the world.
A large number of drugs have been invented for the treatment of hypertension. Modern classification divides them according to the mechanism of action into 7 groups. The pharmacist talks about the “honored” representative of the group of calcium antagonists Nifedipine: its composition, mechanism of action, application and side effects. Compares with Moxonidine, Amlodipine and Captopril.
Nifedipine: Composition
Nifedipine contains the active ingredient of the same name, which belongs to the first generation slow calcium channel blockers. The drug is produced in tablets, the excipients include lactose (milk sugar). Nifedipine tablets contain 10 mg of the active substance.
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Nifedipine: mechanism of action
The mechanism of action of Nifedipine is “coded” in the name of its group: calcium antagonists or slow calcium channel blockers (CBCC).
The drug inhibits the entry of calcium ions through L-channels into smooth muscle cells, including heart cells. A decrease in calcium levels leads to:
- weakening of vascular tone, dilation of coronary and peripheral arteries
- pressure relief
- improve the blood supply to the heart and the supply of oxygen to it
- improve renal blood flow
Nifedipine works at high pressure by dilating and decreasing total peripheral vascular resistance. In this case, the drug has practically no effect on normal blood pressure.
What does nifedipine help with?
Nifedipine, according to the RLS and instructions, is prescribed for the treatment of arterial hypertension and stable angina pectoris, often in combination with other antihypertensive drugs. Nifedipine in hypertensive crisis and for the relief of angina attacks should not be used.
The pharmacist answers popular questions about the drug:
- How long does it take for Nifedipine to work, how quickly does it reduce blood pressure? – The drug begins to act 30 minutes after ingestion.
- How long does Nifedipine last? – The duration of the hypotensive effect is 4-6 hours.
- Nifedipine how to take with high blood pressure? – In case of hypertension, the drug is usually taken twice a day, the maximum single dose is 20 mg. If necessary, the daily dose can be increased to 120 mg. If the patient is taking other antihypertensive drugs in combination, then the dose of nifedipine should be reduced.
- How to take nifedipine: under the tongue or with a drink? – According to the official instructions, the tablets are taken orally and washed down with water. They can not be chewed, divided, crushed and washed down with grapefruit juice.
- Can pregnant women take Nifedipine for high blood pressure? – The drug is prohibited for use during pregnancy up to 20 weeks. After this period, Nifedipine can be considered as a reserve drug, but only in case of severe hypertension in a pregnant woman who is not suitable for other means.
- What is the compatibility between Nifedipine and alcohol? – During treatment, the use of alcohol is not recommended due to the risk of a strong decrease in pressure.
- Why is Nifedipine included in hemorrhoid ointment? – Yes, indeed, there are gels and ointments with the active ingredient nifedipine. For example, Relifipin gel for the treatment of hemorrhoids is registered in the Russian Federation. Here Nifedipine relaxes the muscles of the anal sphincter, reduces pain, improves blood circulation, relieves inflammation.
Nifedipine side effects
Nifedipine often has the following side effects:
- headache, weakness
- tingling in the limbs, movement disorders, difficulty swallowing – with long-term use of high doses of the drug
- palpitations
- edema
- constipation
Nifedipine: overdose
An overdose of the drug leads to a long-term pronounced decrease in pressure and slowing of the heart rate. In a severe case, the patient loses consciousness and may fall into a coma.
Symptoms of an overdose (headache, flushing of the face, slow pulse) should call for emergency help.
Antidote for poisoning with Nifedipine are calcium preparations. They also do a gastric lavage and inject activated charcoal. If the pressure cannot be raised, then dopamine is used, with a rare pulse and arrhythmia, atropine is administered intravenously. In life-threatening conditions, a temporary pacemaker is installed.
Nifedipine or Moxonidine: which is better?
Moxonidine is a centrally acting drug. It stimulates imidazoline receptors in the brain, which leads to a decrease in vascular resistance and blood pressure.
For use in the treatment of hypertension only. Moxonidine and Nifedipine have different mechanisms of action and contraindications, so the drugs should not be compared. Only a doctor can choose the optimal antihypertensive therapy for a particular patient. Moxonidine is often prescribed in combination with BKMM.
All products Moxonidine
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Amlodipine or Nifedipine: which is better?
These two drugs are from the same group of calcium antagonists (CAMC).
Amlodipine belongs to the second generation of blockers and has a greater affinity for L-channels and fewer side effects.
Amlodipine and Nifedipine have identical contraindications and should not be given after myocardial infarction and in patients with aortic stenosis. Amlodipine is approved for the treatment of arterial hypertension in children over 6 years of age, Nifedipine is indicated only for adults over 18 years of age. The advantage of Amlodipine is in a single dose, while Nifedipine is taken 2-4 times a day.
Preparations with different active substances, despite the fact that they belong to the same group, must not be replaced independently. To do this, you need to consult a doctor.
All products Amlodipine
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Captopril or Nifedipine: which is better?
Captopril is an ACE inhibitor and reduces blood pressure in a different way than nifedipine. The list of indications for use is longer, because due to its mechanism of action, Captopril not only dilates blood vessels, but also reduces the excretion of protein and potassium, and reduces myocardial hypertrophy.
It is indicated for acute myocardial infarction, heart failure, diabetic nephropathy, left ventricular hypertrophy.
Captopril reduces blood pressure quickly, so it is used as an ambulance for hypertensive crisis (sublingually). There is no such indication in the instructions for Nifedipine.
For long-term use, the best drug is the one prescribed by the doctor, taking into account the cause and degree of hypertension, the age, condition and history of the individual patient. Modern tactics for the treatment of arterial hypertension, as a rule, consists of a combination of several drugs.
All items Captopril
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Summary
- Nifedipine contains the active ingredient of the same name. Nifedipine has only one dosage (10 mg) and one dosage form (tablets).
- The drug inhibits the entry of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle cells, dilates them and reduces pressure.
- Nifedipine is indicated for the treatment of hypertension and stable angina.
