What's Nifedipine? And What Are Its Uses?
Nifedipine, also known as Procardia, is a calcium channel blocking medication. This medication is used to reduce high blood pressure, and the pain associated with angina. The drug relaxes the muscles that line the walls of blood vessels, which allows for more blood flow. You can use it to stop preterm labor or to treat Raynaud’s phenomenon.
Nifedipine's Uses
Hypertension or high blood pressure is treated with Nifedipine. Angina or chest pain due to reduced blood flow to your heart, can also be treated by this medication. Nifedipine has been proven to lower systolic as well as diastolic bloodpressures, and reduce the chance of heart attack and stroke. It can also be used for preterm labor prevention and Raynaud’s phenomenon treatment, which refers to abnormal constrictions of small blood vessels in the fingers or toes.
These are the purported benefits Nifedipine is said to have
Clinical trials have shown that Nifedipine is effective at reducing blood pressure, preventing strokes and heart attacks. Nifedipine is thought to lower the likelihood of type 2 diabetes. Studies have also suggested it might have anti-inflammatory properties, which may help lower the chance of certain types of cancer. Raynaud’s syndrome can be treated with nifedipine.
Nifedipine Side Effects
Nifedipine can be tolerated well and causes few side effects. Side effects that are most commonly reported include nausea, headaches, dizziness and flushing. Low blood pressure, fatigue, and chest pain are less common side effects. Very rarely, side effects of nifedipine include fainting, swelling the feet and ankles, irregular heartbeat, or even paralysis. These side effects should not be ignored and must be reported immediately to your doctor.
Expert opinions on Nifedipine
Most experts agree that nifedipine can be used to treat hypertension, angina and Raynaud’s phenomenon. Experts caution against using nifedipine in an indiscriminate manner and recommend that you only take it under the guidance of a physician. You should be aware of any side effects. You should also avoid using nifedipine in conjunction with any other medication that is used to lower blood pressure such as ACE inhibitors or Beta Blockers .
What to do?
Nifedipine can be purchased in capsule or tablet form. Nifedipine is typically taken with meals once to twice daily. It depends on what condition is being treated as well as the individual patient's medical history. The dosage recommended will vary. It is important to consult your doctor before stopping taking nifedipine. This can make the condition worse. You can buy nifedipine over-the counter in certain countries. A prescription is needed in other countries.
You should avoid using nifedipine if you're pregnant or nursing, because it could be dangerous for your baby. People with congestive heart disease, kidney, liver, and/or low blood pressure should talk to their doctor before using nifedipine.
Conclusion
Nifedipine, a calcium channel blocking medication that can be used to reduce high blood pressure or chest pain due to angina is called Nifedipine. The effectiveness of Nifedipine in treating high blood pressure, stroke prevention and heart attack prevention has been extensively studied. The drug may have anti-inflammatory properties and can be used to treat Raynaud's syndrome. Nifedipine can be tolerated well and causes few side effects. However, it shouldn't be taken in excess or with any other medication that is used to lower blood pressure. If taken according to the instructions, nifedipine may provide many benefits. Talk with your doctor before you start.