Nifedipine: Price, Dosage & Where to Buy

Nifedipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure. Its extended-release tablets lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels, and treatment can help reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks associated with hypertension. Nifedipine requires a prescription in the United Kingdom and is also used for certain forms of angina.

Nifedipine extended-release tablets are indicated for high blood pressure, also called hypertension. Lowering blood pressure reduces the risk of cardiovascular events, particularly strokes and heart attacks. The tablets may be used alone or alongside other blood pressure medicines.

They are also indicated for vasospastic angina, where spasms in the arteries supplying the heart cause chest pain. The label includes confirmed vasospasm and certain cases where a vasospastic component is suspected. Another indication is chronic stable angina, meaning chest pain associated with exertion, in patients who remain symptomatic despite adequate treatment with beta blockers or organic nitrates, or who cannot tolerate those medicines.

The label lists oral capsules in strengths of 10 mg and 20 mg, and extended-release oral tablets, including film-coated versions, in strengths of 30 mg, 60 mg and 90 mg. The usual starting dose is 30 mg or 60 mg once daily for hypertension or angina with the extended-release tablets. Treatment is individualised according to clinical response, with blood pressure monitoring before increases.

The label describes gradual titration so that the prescriber can assess the response at each level. The label lists doses above 120 mg as not recommended. The label lists limited experience with doses greater than 90 mg in patients with angina, with caution required when such doses are clinically warranted.

Extended-release tablets are intended to remain whole, rather than being bitten or divided. Changing from capsules to extended-release tablets requires prescriber assessment of the equivalent daily regimen. If treatment is discontinued, the label describes gradual reduction under close medical supervision.

Nifedipine belongs to the dihydropyridine group of calcium channel blockers. These medicines reduce the movement of calcium into muscle cells in the walls of arteries. Calcium normally helps these muscles contract, so reducing its entry allows the arteries to relax and widen.

This reduces resistance to blood flow and lowers blood pressure. It also reduces the effort required for the heart to pump blood. Relaxation of the arteries supplying the heart can relieve coronary artery spasm, helping explain its use in vasospastic angina.

The label reports developmental abnormalities and other harmful effects on embryos, fetuses and placentas in animal studies. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women.

Nifedipine extended-release tablets should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk. The label does not specify breastfeeding information; pregnancy or breastfeeding should be discussed with a doctor or pharmacist.

A missed dose may interrupt regular blood pressure or angina control. General pharmacy advice is to resume the prescribed schedule rather than double a dose to compensate.

If the next dose is nearly due, the missed dose is usually omitted. The patient leaflet or a pharmacist can clarify advice for the particular formulation.

The label specifies storage at 20° to 25°C, with excursions permitted to 15° to 30°C. Protect the extended-release tablets from moisture and humidity to maintain quality.