Nifedipine
Information about Nifedipine
Nifedipine uses
Nifedipine is used in the treatment of Hypertension (high blood pressure), Angina (heart-related chest pain), heart attack and stroke.
How nifedipine works
Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker. In high blood pressure, it normalizes the blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels to reduce the pressure on them, thereby improving the blood flow in the body. The enhanced blood flow in the body further relaxes the heart muscles by reducing the workload on the heart. It also improves the oxygen flow in the body, thereby, preventing any heart-related chest pain.
Common side effects of nifedipine
Dizziness, Fatigue, Flushing (sense of warmth in the face, ears, neck and trunk), Headache, Hypotension (low blood pressure), Fainting, Peripheral edema, Fast heart rate, Nocturia (increased urge to urinate during the night), Anemia (low number of red blood cells), Angioedema (swelling of deeper layers of skin), Breast enlargement in male, Polyuria
Available Medicine for Nifedipine
Expert advice for Nifedipine
- Take it at the same time every day to help you remember to take it.
- A sudden drop in your blood pressure may occur, especially when you first start taking Nifedipine. To lower the chance of feeling dizzy or passing out, rise slowly if you have been sitting or lying down.
- It can cause ankle or foot swelling. To reduce the swelling, raise your legs while you are sitting down. Talk to your doctor if it does not go away.
- It may cause dizziness. Do not drive or perform any activity that requires mental focus until you know how Nifedipine affects you.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Frequently asked questions for Nifedipine
Nifedipine
Q. Is Nifedipine a diuretic?
No, Nifedipine is not a diuretic medication. However, some evidence indicates that Nifedipine has a partial diuretic property which may result in increased sodium loss through urine. It is a medication which relaxes the blood vessels by directly acting on them. This helps to decrease the blood pressure of the individual. As a result, blood flows more easily and lowers blood pressure, which helps to reduce the strain or pressure on your heart.
Q. Is Nifedipine bad for kidneys?
No, Nifedipine is not bad for kidneys. In few research studies, taking Nifedipine in recommended doses has in fact been shown to be beneficial for the kidneys. It is not advised to use this medicine without consulting the doctor. It should be used exactly as prescribed.
Q. Can Nifedipine cause liver damage?
Yes,Nifedipine can cause liver damage in some cases, but this is very rare. However, some people may develop a rise in liver enzymes after taking Nifedipine. Let your doctor know if you notice any such changes in your recent lab tests. Do not start this medication without consulting your doctor and do inform him if you have any history of liver disease or liver damage. This is because, in case of liver damage, dose adjustment may be required.