Nifedipine oral tablet is a prescription drug that is available as Adalat CC, Afeditab CR, and Procardia XL brand-name products. These are tablets with extended-release. Over time, an extended-release drug is released into the bloodstream slowly. As the brand-name drug Procardia, Nifedipine immediate-release capsules are available. The tablets are used for angina treatment (chest pain). The medications are also used for the treatment of blood pressure and angina.
Nifedipine Uses
Treats chest pain ( angina) by stopping pain and allowing increased exercise.
Reduces the frequency of angina attacks.
Relaxes blood vessels to lower blood pressure, reducing heart workload.
Increases blood and oxygen supply to the heart.
Belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers.
Should not be used to treat chest pain attacks as they occur.
Use other medications like sublingual nitroglycerin for immediate relief as advised.
Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more information.
Older adults should discuss risks, benefits, and safer alternatives with their doctor or pharmacist.
Nifedipine Side Effects
Common Side Effects:
Headache
Nausea
Dizziness
Flushing
Heartburn
Muscle Cramps
Constipation
Cough
Edema
Weakness
Serious Side Effects:
Trouble in breathing
Trouble swallowing
Rash or hives
Lightheadedness
Fainting
Immediate Action:
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any serious symptoms.
Avoid using Nifedipine if you have adverse reactions.
Precautions To Be Taken
Discuss with your doctor before taking Nifedipine if allergic to it or other medications.
Some inactive ingredients may cause serious allergic reactions.
Inform your doctor of any medical history, especially liver or kidney problems.
How to Take Nifedipine
Nifedipine is available as capsules and extended-release tablets.
Capsules are typically taken three or four times daily.
Extended-release tablets are taken once daily on an empty stomach.
Take at the same time daily to maintain consistency.
Swallow extended-release tablets whole; do not crush, chew, or cut.
Your doctor may start with a low dose and adjust gradually.
Nifedipine controls chest pain when taken regularly but does not relieve acute pain.
Consult your doctor for alternative treatments during chest pain episodes.
Nifedipine Dosage Instructions
Nifedipine
Oral capsule: 10 mg, 20 mg
Oral extended-release tablet: 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg
Adalat CC
Oral extended-release tablet: 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg
Afeditab CR
Oral extended-release tablet: 30 mg, 60 mg
Procardia XL
Oral extended-release tablet: 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg
Procardia
Oral capsule: 10 mg
Dosage for Vasospastic Angina
Adult Dosage: 30 mg or 60 mg taken orally once a day.
Dosage for Chronic Stable Angina
Adult Dosage: 30 mg or 60 mg taken orally once a day.
Missed Dose
Missing one or two doses of Nifedipine typically does not affect your body. However, for some medications, missing doses can reduce effectiveness.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule.
Overdose
Accidental overdose of Nifedipine can have harmful effects on your body’s functions and may require immediate medical attention.
If you have taken more than the prescribed amount, seek emergency medical assistance or contact a poison control center right away.
Nifedipine vs Amlodipine
Nifedipine
Amlodipine
Nifedipine oral tablet is a prescription drug that is available as Adalat CC, Afeditab CR, and Procardia XL brand-name products. These are all tablets with extended-release.
As a brand-name drug and a generic drug, Amlodipine oral tablet is available. Name of the brand: Norvasc.
This drug is used to stop such sources of pain in the chest (angina). It can make it possible for you to exercise more and reduce the frequency of angina attacks.
Amlodipine is used for treating elevated blood pressure, with or without other drugs. Lowering high blood pressure helps to avoid strokes, kidney complications, and heart attacks
Some of the common side effects of Nifedipine are:
Headache
Nausea
Dizziness
Flushing
Heartburn
Some of the common side effects of Amlodipine are: