Nifedipine
Generic Name: Nifedipine
Uses & Medical Indications
Management of vasospastic angina, chronic stable angina, hypertension
Hypertension, Angina Pectoris, Raynaud Phenomenon (Off-label)
Work Mechanism & Pharmacology
Patient Overview of Work Mechanism
Nifedipine relaxes tight blood vessels and supports regular cardiac pumping, keeping blood pressure within a healthy range and protecting heart health.
Clinical Mechanism of Action (MoA)
Nifedipine lowers elevated blood pressure and relieves myocardial workload by inducing systemic vasodilation, antagonizing adrenergic sympathetic tone, or inhibiting the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone axis.
Dosage & Administration Guidelines
30-60 mg ER once daily
Not generally recommended
Start at lower end of dosing range
120 mg/day (ER) or 180 mg/day (IR)
No adjustment necessary
Dose reduction recommended in severe hepatic impairment
Side Effects & Safety Warnings
Peripheral edema, headache, flushing, dizziness, nausea
Severe hypotension, MI, angina exacerbation upon initiation
Cardiogenic shock, hypersensitivity to nifedipine
Avoid IR formulation for acute BP reduction (risk of severe hypotension/MI)
Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)
CYP3A4 inhibitors (clarithromycin, itraconazole) and inducers (rifampin), beta-blockers
Avoid grapefruit juice
May increase hypotensive effects
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Often used for severe hypertension in pregnancy, but consult physician
Excreted in human milk; use caution
Patient Counseling & Practical Advice
Do not crush/chew ER tablets. Empty tablet shell may appear in stool.
Take as soon as remembered. Skip if near the time for the next dose.
Blood pressure, heart rate, signs of peripheral edema
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Seek immediate emergency medical care (call emergency services or proceed to the nearest emergency department) if you experience signs of a life-threatening allergic reaction (anaphylaxis: facial, lip, tongue, or throat swelling causing airway obstruction), severe cutaneous blistering with skin peeling, sudden intense chest pain, or symptoms of overdose.
Content for Nifedipine was synthesized from standardized public health monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and health authorities:
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO) — National List of Essential Medicines
- World Health Organization (WHO) — Model List of Essential Medicines
- Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission (IPC) — Indian Pharmacopoeia Drug Monographs
- National Health Service (NHS) — Medicines A to Z Clinical Guidelines
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.