What is nifedipine?
Nifedipine is in a group of drugs called calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing the muscles of your heart and blood vessels.
Nifedipine is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and angina (chest pain).
Nifedipine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.
What is the most important information I should know about nifedipine?
You should not use nifedipine if you are allergic to it.
Before taking nifedipine, tell your doctor if you have kidney or liver disease, a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines), a history of stomach surgery, coronary artery disease, underactive thyroid, diabetes, or congestive heart failure.
If you need surgery, tell the surgeon ahead of time that you are using nifedipine. You may need to stop using the medicine for a short time.
Many drugs can interact with nifedipine. Tell your doctor about all other medications you use.
Do not stop taking nifedipine without first talking to your doctor, even if you feel fine. Stopping suddenly may make your condition worse. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. You may need to use blood pressure medication for the rest of your life.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking nifedipine?
You should not use nifedipine if you are allergic to it.
To make sure you can safely take nifedipine, tell your doctor if you have any of these other conditions:
kidney disease;
liver disease (especially cirrhosis);
diverticulitis, inflammatory bowel disease, chronic constipation;
gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or slow digestion;
a blockage in your digestive tract (stomach or intestines);
a colostomy or history of stomach surgery such as gastric bypass;
colon cancer;
underactive thyroid;
diabetes;
coronary artery disease; or
congestive heart failure.
FDA pregnancy category C. It is not known whether nifedipine will harm an unborn baby. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant while using this medication..
Nifedipine can pass into breast milk and may harm a nursing baby. Do not use this medication without telling your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
The nifedipine extended-release tablet may contain lactose. Talk to your doctor before using this form of nifedipine if you have galactose intolerance, or severe problems with lactose (milk sugar).