What it means
A dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker like nifedipineny-FED-ih-peenA calcium channel blocker taken by mouth that relaxes blood vessels to lower blood pressure.Full entry . As a continuous IV drip, it is used to lower blood pressure in a controlled way in emergencies, after strokes and around surgery, and the rate is adjusted to reach a target pressure. Side effects include headache, flushing, a fast pulse and low blood pressure.
For the nurse
Run it on a pump and check blood pressure often, as ordered, while adjusting the rate. It can irritate veins: check the IV site often and change peripheral sites as the label and policy direct. Its name is easily confused with nifedipine, so read labels carefully.
At a glance
| Drug class | calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Cardene IV |
| Spanish | nicardipino |
| Also written | Cardene, Cardene IV |
Easy to confuse with
nifedipine
A calcium channel blocker taken by mouth that relaxes blood vessels to lower blood pressure.
Related terms
hypertension
Blood pressure that stays higher than normal, at or above 130/80 mm Hg by current US guidelines.
nifedipine
A calcium channel blocker taken by mouth that relaxes blood vessels to lower blood pressure.