What is the most important information I should know about nifedipine?
Do not stop taking nifedipine without first talking to your doctor, even if you begin to feel
better. If you stop taking the medication, your condition could become worse.
Do not crush, chew, or break any form of nifedipine. Swallow the pills whole.
Do not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice during treatment with nifedipine. Nifedipine
can interact with grapefruit and grapefruit juice, and the interaction may have dangerous effects. You
should discuss the use of grapefruit and grapefruit juice with your doctor.
What is nifedipine?
Nifedipine is in a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. Nifedipine relaxes (widens)
your blood vessels (veins and arteries), which makes it easier for the heart to pump and reduces its
workload.
Nifedipine is used to lower hypertension (high blood pressure) and to treat angina (chest pain).
Nifedipine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking nifedipine?
Before taking nifedipine, tell your doctor if you have
You may not be able to take nifedipine, or you may require a dosage
adjustment or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
Nifedipine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether
nifedipine will be harmful to an unborn baby. Do not take nifedipine without first talking to your doctor
if you are
pregnant or could become pregnant during treatment.
Nifedipine passes into breast milk. Do not take nifedipine without first talking to your doctor
if you are
breast-feeding a baby.
If you are over 65 years of age, you may be more likely to experience side effects from
nifedipine. Your doctor may prescribe a lower dose of this medication.
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