| Generic Name | Nifedipine |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Calcium Channel Blocker (Dihydropyridine) |
| Indications |
|
| Mechanism of Action | Inhibits calcium influx through L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle → vasodilation → decreased blood pressure and myocardial oxygen demand. |
| Available Forms & Strengths | • Tablet (immediate release): 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg • Capsule (sustained release): 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg |
| Dosage | Hypertension (adults): 10–20 mg orally 3 times daily (immediate release) or 30–60 mg once daily (sustained release) Children: 0.25–0.5 mg/kg/dose orally 2–3 times daily (specialist advice) |
| Route | Oral |
| Common Side Effects |
|
| Serious Adverse Effects | Hypotension, severe tachycardia, angina worsening in patients with obstructive coronary disease (rare) |
| Contraindications | • Hypersensitivity to nifedipine • Cardiogenic shock • Unstable angina (immediate release in acute MI caution) |
| Precautions | • Severe aortic stenosis • Heart failure • Hepatic impairment • Elderly patients |
| Drug Interactions | • Beta-blockers (additive effect) • Grapefruit juice (↑ plasma levels) • Other antihypertensives (additive hypotension) |
| Pregnancy & Lactation | Pregnancy: Use if benefit outweighs risk Lactation: Use with caution |
| Storage | Store below 30°C, protect from light |
| References | BNF | BNF for Children | Goodman & Gilman |