NIFEDIPINE
Background and Date of Approval
Nifedipine is an antihypertensive medication approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration. It received approval on October 20, 1981, for the treatment of hypertension and angina.
Uses
Nifedipine helps to treat hypertension (raised blood pressure) and certain types of angina (chest pain) caused by coronary artery disease. In hypertension conditions, this medicine relaxes the blood vessels and makes the blood pass smoothly. In angina, it improves the blood supply, which prevents chest pain.
How is it administered?
Take the Nifedipine Tablet as advised by your physician. Do not crush, chew, or open the medicine. Your physician will decide the correct dosage and duration based on age, body weight, and disease condition. Only stop taking the tablet if your doctor advises you to stop.
Side Effects
The side effects known to occur commonly during the treatment with Nifedipine are headache, peripheral edema, dizziness, fatigue, constipation, and swelling particularly of the ankles and legs.
Warnings
Nifedipine should not be used in individuals with known hypersensitivity or allergic reactions to this drug or its components. This tablet is contraindicated in patients with acute myocardial infarction (heart attack) and during the initial recovery phase. It may worsen cardiovascular function in these individuals. This drug should be cautiously used in patients with heart conditions, such as heart failure or certain conduction abnormalities. Close monitoring is required in these individuals, and dosage adjustments are necessary.
Precautions
It is important to note that sudden drops in blood pressure can occur when taking Nifedipine, mainly in individuals with very high blood pressure and low blood volume. This sudden drop in blood pressure is known as orthostatic hypotension (a condition with a significant decrease in blood pressure upon standing up or changing positions). So it is necessary to monitor blood pressure during the treatment with this drug.
Word of Advice
If you take nifedipine regularly, take it at the same time each day. Consistent timing helps maintain steady levels of the medication in your body. Grapefruit juice can interact with this medicine and increase nifedipine levels in your body. Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking this drug. This medicine is prescribed for your specific condition and should not be shared with others, even if they have similar symptoms. Contact your doctor if you develop worsening symptoms or if your condition does not improve after taking this drug. Your doctor may need to reassess your condition and adjust your treatment if necessary.
References
Morningside Healthcare Ltd, Electronic medicines compendium (EMC), [ Revised on June 2022] [ Accessed on 3 June 2023], https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/files/pil.12305.pdf Package leaflet: Information for the user - Nifedipine. www.hpra.ie . [Revised on March 2018], Available at: https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/PIL-2206287-04052018094255-636610237772812500.pdf (Accessed on 3 June 2023). Goodman & Gilman's, The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics, Treatment of Myocardial Ischemia and Hypertension, 12th edition, 2011, 755. KD Tripathi, Essentials of Medical Pharmacology, Cardiovascular drugs, 7th edition, 2013, 546.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the possible side effects of Nifedipine that I should be aware of?
Yes, side effects of Nifedipine may include severe allergic reactions and liver or kidney problems. You must seek medical attention if you encounter any side effects, such as swelling, difficulty breathing, nausea, and rashes.
Does Nifedipine cause edema?
The vasodilation of Nifedipine can lead to an increased chance of fluid leakage from the blood vessels into the surrounding tissues, resulting in edema. It occurs in the lower extremities, such as the ankles and feet. It's important to monitor for signs of edema while taking this drug and inform your healthcare provider if you notice any unusual swelling or changes in your extremities.
How long does it take time for Nifedipine to work?
Immediate-release tablets of Nifedipine typically start working within 30 minutes to 1 hour after administration. Extended-release formulations may take longer to reach their maximum effect, with onset times ranging from 1 to 2 hours.
Can Nifedipine be given sublingually?
No, Nifedipine should not be given sublingually (under the tongue). It is available in various formulations, including immediate-release tablets and extended-release capsules, which are meant to be swallowed whole with water.
How does Nifedipine work in treating low blood pressure?
Nifedipine works by blocking the influx of calcium ions into certain cells, leading to relaxation and dilation of blood vessels, which mainly helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow.
Can I take Nifedipine with low BP?
If you have low blood pressure (hypotension), taking Nifedipine may further decrease your blood pressure and cause symptoms such as dizziness, lightheadedness, fainting, or fatigue. Therefore, taking this drug if you have low blood pressure is generally not recommended unless specifically prescribed and closely monitored by your healthcare provider.