What it means
A dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker: it widens arteries but has little effect on the heart's conduction. Long-acting tablets treat high blood pressure and angina. In maternity care it is used for severe high blood pressure in pregnancy and to slow preterm labor. Side effects include headache, flushing, dizziness, a fast pulse and ankle swelling.
For the nurse
Extended-release tablets are swallowed whole. Check blood pressure and pulse, teach the client to rise slowly and avoid grapefruit juice. The fast-acting capsule is not used to bring down high blood pressure quickly, because the drop can be too sudden.
At a glance
| Drug class | calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine) |
|---|---|
| Brand names | Procardia XL, Adalat CC |
| Spanish | nifedipino |
| Also written | Procardia, Procardia XL, Adalat CC |
Easy to confuse with
nicardipine
A calcium channel blocker, most often given as an IV infusion, 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.
verapamil
A calcium channel blocker that slows the heart rate and relaxes blood vessels.
labetalol
A drug that blocks both alpha and beta receptors to lower blood pressure, given IV or by mouth.
nicardipine
A calcium channel blocker, most often given as an IV infusion, that relaxes blood vessels to lower blood pressure.