Medications and Drugs
GENERIC NAME: nisoldipine
BRAND NAME: Sular
DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Nisoldipine is an oral
calcium-channel
blocker (CCB) of the dihydropyridine (DHP) class. Other calcium
channel
blockers in the DHP class include nifedipine (Procardia,
Adalat),
amlodipine (Norvasc), felodipine (Plendil), nicardipine
(Cardene), and
isradipine (Dynacirc). Calcium-channel blockers prevent calcium
from
entering certain types of muscle cells. Since the muscle cells
need
calcium to contract, CCBs prevent the cells from contracting,
that is,
they cause the muscle cells to relax. Nisoldipine selectively
relaxes the
muscles of small arteries causing them to dilate but has little
or no
effect on muscles of the veins or the heart. Nisoldipine was
approved by
the FDA in February of 1995.
PRESCRIPTION: yes
GENERIC AVAILABLE: no
PREPARATIONS: Tablets: 10mg, 20mg, 30mg, 40mg.
STORAGE: Tablets should be stored below 30°C (86
°F)
and should be protected from light and moisture.
PRESCRIBED FOR: Nisoldipine is used to treat high blood
pressure. It may be used alone or in combination with other
agents.
Nisoldipine is also used to treat patients with angina and is
being
studied in patients with congestive heart failure.
DOSING: Most patients need between 20mg and 40mg once
daily.
Adults with advanced liver diseases or persons over the age of
65 years
are often begun at a lower dose 10 mg), which may then be
increased slowly
for maximal effect. Some patients may benefit with doses of 60
mg/day.
Others, especially those with angina, may need twice daily
dosing.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: Cimetidine (Tagamet) can increase
blood
levels of nisoldipine, possibly causing more side effects.
PREGNANCY: The effects of nisoldipine in pregnancy are
unknown.
NURSING MOTHERS: It is unknown
if nisoldipine appears in breast
milk.
SIDE EFFECTS: Peripheral edema (swollen ankles and
feet) and
headache are the most common side effects of nisoldipine.
Dizziness may
also occur.
Reference: FDA Prescribing Information
Last Editorial Review: 6/1/1998
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.
- Calcium Channel Blockers - Establishes the medication calcium channel blockers (CCBs), which are drugs used for treating high blood pressure, angina, and abnormal heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation.
- High Blood Pressure - Learn about high blood pressure symptoms like headache, dizziness, shortness of breath, blurred vision and more. Causes, and normal blood pressure information is included.
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
Latest Medical News
Back to Medications Index
High Blood Pressure RSS