Drug Title

Procardia (Nifedipine)

Drug Uses

Procardia is a calcium channel blocker that is used for the treatment of angina (chest pain). It reduces and blocks the effect of normal calcium on blood vessel constriction and thereby helps it to relax and widens it.

How it is taken

Procardia must be taken by mouth with or without food with a full glass of water. Swallow it whole without crushing or chewing it. Take it for the entire duration of treatment preferably at the same time everyday. Do not stop without consulting your doctor.

If you use Procardia only when you feel chest pains, then it will not be effective. The best way to use the drug is as recommended by your doctor.

Drug Class & Mechanism

Procardia belongs to a class of drugs called as calcium channel blocking agents. It blocks the transport of calcium into the blood vessels of the heart and other parts of the body. Once calcium is blocked, the blood vessels do not contract. This lowers the blood pressure and also the workload on the heart. Thus procardia is also helpful in reducing angina in patients with coronary heart disease.

Missed Dosage

If you miss a dose of Procardia then you may take it as soon as you remember and adjust the remaining doses accordingly. However, if it is nearly time for the next dose then you may skip this dose and continue with the regular dosage. Do not take a double dose to make up for the missed dose.

Storage

Store it at room temperature between 68 and 77 degrees F (20 and 25 degrees C) in an air tight container protecting it from direct exposure to light, heat and moisture. Keep away from pets and children.

Warnings/Precautions

Discuss with your doctor about any prior medical condition that you may have including allergies to medicines, food or other substances, liver disease, congestive heart failure.

Do not combine the drug with alcohol.

You must not take if you are allergic to any ingredient in it.

If you are pregnant or suspect that you are, then stop using Procardia and contact your doctor immediately.

It is unknown whether Procardia is secreted in breast milk. Avoid breast feeding while using the drug.

Possible Side Effects

Some of the common side effects seen in the first week of using Procardia are abdominal/stomach pain, cough, diarrhea, dizziness, headache, unusual tiredness, dizziness and lightheadedness (especially when you get up from a sitting position). Please contact your doctor if the symptoms persist or become bothersome.

Other severe side effects include swelling of hands or feet, irregular heartbeat. In the unlikely event you have an allergic reaction to this drug, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include: rash, itching, swelling, dizziness, trouble breathing.

You must seek medical attention immediately if any of these side effects occur.