Medications and Drugs

Lowering Blood Pressure Exercise Tips Slideshow Blood Pressure Salt Shockers Slideshow Heart Disease Slideshow

GENERIC NAME: NIFEDIPINE SUSTAINED ACTION - ORAL (nye-FED-eh-peen)

BRAND NAME(S): Adalat CC

Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: This drug is a calcium channel blocker. Calcium is involved in blood vessel contraction. By blocking calcium, nifedipine relaxes and widens the blood vessels. It is used to treat high blood pressure.

OTHER USES: This drug may also be used for chest pain (angina).

HOW TO USE: Best if taken on an empty stomach but may be taken with food. Be consistent; either always with food or without. Tablets should be swallowed whole, preferably with a full glass of water. Do not chew, divide or crush before taking. Do not stop taking suddenly.

SIDE EFFECTS: This drug may cause dizziness and lightheadedness especially during the first few days. Avoid activities requiring alertness. When you sit or lie down for a while, get up slowly to minimize dizziness and allow your body to adjust. You may also experience bloating, heartburn, nausea, blurred vision, muscle cramps, headache, flushing, sweating, sleep disturbances or ankle/foot swelling. Notify your doctor promptly if these effects persist or worsen. Notify your doctor promptly if you develop: chest pain, irregular pulse. In the unlikely event you have a serious allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of a serious allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling (especially facial), severe dizziness, trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

PRECAUTIONS: Tell your doctor your medical history, especially of: liver disease, heart failure, allergies (especially drug allergies). If you are scheduled to have surgery (including dental surgery) tell the doctor you use nifedipine. Limit using alcohol while taking this medication. Do not allow anyone else to take this medication. Before taking this drug, tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breast-feeding.