Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Nifedipine belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium-channel blockers, and it is utilized to manage hypertension and alleviate angina (chest pain). By relaxing the blood vessels, nifedipine reduces blood pressure, easing the workload on the heart. Additionally, it boosts the delivery of blood and oxygen to the heart, which helps control chest pain.
Uses and Dosage
Nifedipine is available in the form of a capsule and an extended-release tablet for oral consumption. Usually, the capsule is taken three or four times a day, while the extended-release tablet should be taken once daily on an empty stomach, either 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal.
To ensure that you don’t forget to take nifedipine, take it at the same time(s) every day. Take nifedipine precisely as directed. Do not increase or decrease the dosage or take it more often than prescribed by your doctor.
Swallow the extended-release tablets whole, without splitting, chewing, or crushing them.
Initially, your doctor will start you on a low dosage of nifedipine and gradually increase it, usually once every 7 to 14 days.
While nifedipine helps control chest pain when taken regularly, it does not prevent chest pain once it has started. Your doctor may prescribe a different medication for you to take during chest pain.
Nifedipine effectively manages high blood pressure and chest pain, but it does not cure them. Even if you feel better, continue taking nifedipine. Do not discontinue taking nifedipine without consulting your doctor, who will probably taper your dosage gradually.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- headache
- nausea
- dizziness or lightheadedness
- flushing
- heartburn
- fast heartbeat
- muscle cramps
- constipation
- cough
- decreased sexual ability
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- swelling of the face, eyes, lips, tongue, hands, arms, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
- fainting
- rash
- yellowing of the skin or eyes
- increase in frequency or severity of chest pain
Caution
Before taking this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about any allergies you may have or any other allergies that may be present. Inactive ingredients in this product may cause allergic reactions or other problems.
Prior to using this medication, inform your doctor or pharmacist about your medical history, particularly if you have certain heart problems (such as heart failure or aortic stenosis), liver problems, or kidney problems.
This medication may cause dizziness. Alcohol or marijuana may increase dizziness. Do not engage in activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can do so safely.
Older adults may be more susceptible to the side effects of this drug, especially dizziness, constipation, or swelling of the ankles/feet.
During pregnancy, this medication should only be used when clearly needed. Consult with your doctor about the risks and benefits.
This medication passes into breast milk. Consult with your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Procardia is available in the following forms and strengths:
-
nifedipine capsule:
- 10mg
FAQ
How quickly does Procardia start working?
Procardia starts to work on the day you start taking it, but it may take a couple of weeks to fully take effect.
What is the most common side effect of Procardia?
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting may occur, especially when you get up suddenly from a lying or sitting position.
Resources
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/nifedipine/about-nifedipine/#:~:text=It%20starts%20to%20work%20on,make%20you%20feel%20any%20different
- https://medlineplus.gov/druginfo/meds/a684028.html
- https://www.webmd.com/drugs/2/drug-10981/procardia-oral/details
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/nifedipine-oral-route/side-effects/drg-20071680?p=1
- https://www.drugs.com/mtm/procardia.html
