Uses of Nifedipine

Therapeutic Category

Nifedipine: Anti-hypertensive Drugs.

How Nifedipine works

Nifedipine reduces blood pressure by relaxing and expanding the blood vessels for easy blood flow and thereby lowers the blood pressure, which reduces the strain on the heart. It also works by relaxing and expanding the blood vessels supplying the heart, which allows more blood and oxygen to reach the heart and decreases the strain on it. This reduces the severity and frequency of angina attacks.

Common side effects of Nifedipine

• headache
• flushing
• general feeling of being unwell
• constipation
• swelling, especially of legs and ankle

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor if you experience:

• Generalised allergic reaction including very rarely life-threatening shock (Ex. difficulty in breathing, drop of blood pressure, fast pulse, swelling including airway
• Other allergic reactions like swelling of the skin (sometimes severe which includes swelling of the larynx)
• Fast heartbeat (tachycardia)
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Mild to moderate allergic reactions
• Itching, a rash or hives

Health Tips for Nifedipine

• Take Nifedipine at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your system
• Grapefruit products can interfere with the way your body metabolizes Nifedipine, potentially increasing its concentration in the blood. It's best to avoid consuming grapefruit while taking this medication
• Drink an adequate amount of water each day to maintain proper hydration, as dehydration can affect blood pressure
• Follow a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. Limit your intake of processed foods, saturated fats, and sodium (salt), as these can contribute to high blood pressure
• Smoking can raise your blood pressure and decrease the effectiveness of Nifedipine. Excessive alcohol consumption can also interfere with the medication's effectiveness and increase side effects