nifedipine (cont.)
Nifedipine interferes with the breakdown of tacrolimus (Prograf) by the liver,
which in turn causes elevated blood levels of tacrolimus and may increase the
risk of toxicity from tacrolimus.
Nifedipine reduces the blood levels of
quinidine (Quinaglute, Quinidex, Quinora) which may reduce the effectiveness of
quinidine. Conversely, blood levels of nifedipine are increased by quinidine and
may lead to side effects from nifedipine.
Cimetidine (Tagamet) interferes with
breakdown by the liver of nifedipine and increases nifedipine blood levels.
Therefore, cautious dosing is necessary when both medications are administered
concurrently.
Nifedipine should not be taken with grapefruit juice since
grapefruit juice (one glass, approximately 200 ml) inhibits the breakdown of
nifedipine by the liver and increases the levels of nifedipine in the blood.
PREGNANCY: There are no adequate studies of nifedipine in pregnant women, and in
general, it is avoided during pregnancy.
NURSING MOTHERS: Nifedipine is excreted in human
breast milk. Generally,
nifedipine is avoided in nursing mothers.
SIDE EFFECTS: Side effects of nifedipine are generally mild, and reversible.
Most side effects are expected consequences of the dilation of the arteries. The
most common side effects include headache, dizziness, flushing, and edema
(swelling) of the lower extremities. Less common side effects include dizziness,
nausea and constipation.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 4/15/2009
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
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