Nifedipine

Please note: these are basic guidelines, refer to your doctor for a professional medical opinion.

Popular brand names:

Adalat, Adco-Vascard, Cardifen, Cipalat retard, Fedaloc SR, Gitsalat, Macorel

Drug group:

Anti-angina drug and antihypertensive drug

Prescription needed?

Yes

What does it do?

Nifedipine can be used to:

• Prevent angina attacks - but not to be used to treat acute attacks
• Treat high blood pressure
• Help improve circulation to the limbs in disorders such as Raynaud’s disease

Unlike some other anti-angina drugs such as beta blockers, nifedipine is safe for asthmatics.

How does it work?

Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker - it interferes with conduction of signals in the muscles of the heart and blood vessel walls.

How should it be used?

Nifedipine should not be taken with grapefruit juice.

What is the typical dosage?

Your doctor will recommend a dosage tailored to your need, but typically:

Total daily dose for adults 15–90mg, taken 1-3 x daily

How quickly will it start to work?

Within 30–60 minutes      
           

How long will the effects last?   

6–24 hours          

When should I stop using it?

Do not stop taking the drug without consulting your doctor       
                             

Is it safe for prolonged use?

No problems expected                                                                   

What are the possible side effects?

The following have been reported:

• More common: headache, dizziness (especially on rising), flushing, ankle swelling, palpitations
• Less common: frequency in passing urine, rash
• Report to your doctor before taking your next dose if you experience: increased severity/frequency of angina attacks

What other considerations are important?

Dosage may be adjusted by your doctor under certain conditions.

• Certain health problems: liver/kidney problems, heart failure, recent heart attack, aortic stenosis, diabetes, porphyria
• Other medicines: carbamazepine, ciclosporin, magnesium (by injection), tacrolimus, theophylline, other antihypertensives, phenytoin, rifampicin, digoxin
• Pregnancy and breast-feeding: The drug may inhibit labour but this risk should be weighed against the risk of uncontrolled hypertension to the mother; the small amounts passed into breast milk are unlikely to harm baby.
• Children: Not recommended
• Over 60: Reduced dose may be necessary, increased likelihood of side effects
• Driving and hazardous work: Caution, the drug can cause dizziness
• Alcohol: Avoid, increased risk of low blood pressure
• Surgery and general anaesthetics: Interactions with some general anaesthetics may result in a fall in blood pressure, discuss this with your doctor