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Nisoldipine |
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What is Nisoldipine and why is it prescribed? Nisoldipine controls high blood pressure. A long-acting tablet, Nisoldipine may be used alone or in combination with other blood pressure medications. Nisoldipine is a type of medication called a calcium channel blocker. It inhibits the flow of calcium through the smooth muscles of the heart, delaying the passage of nerve impulses, slowing down the heart, and expanding the blood vessels. This eases the heart's workload and reduces your blood pressure. You must take Nisoldipine regularly for it to be effective. Nisoldipine does not cure high blood pressure but it keeps it under control. How should you take Nisoldipine? Follow your doctors directions for taking Nisoldipine. Swallow the tablets whole. They should not be crushed, chewed, or divided. Avoid eating high-fat meals with Nisoldipine, as the medication will not work properly. Do not take grapefruit products before or after taking Nisoldipine. If you miss a dose take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take two doses at the same time. Store Nisoldipine at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant container. Protect from moisture. Are there any Nisoldipine side effects? Nisoldipine side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. More common Nisoldipine side effects may include dizziness, flushing, headache, heart palpitations, sinus inflammation, sore throat, and swelling of the hands and feet. Less common Nisoldipine side effects may include chest pain, nausea, and rash. What are the possible food and drug interactions when taking Nisoldipine? If Nisoldipine is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. Be sure to inform your doctor of all the prescription and over the counter medications you are taking. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Nisoldipine with Atenolol (Tenormin), Cimetidine (Tagamet), Phenytoin (Dilantin), or Quinidine (Quinidex). Are there any special warnings about Nisoldipine? If you have a heart condition or liver disease, be sure the doctor is aware of it. Nisoldipine should be used with caution. Nisoldipine may cause an excessive drop in blood pressure, especially when you are first taking the medication or when the dosage is increased. Low blood pressure can also become a problem if you are taking other blood pressure medications. If you develop symptoms of low blood pressure such as dizziness or light-headedness, call your doctor. If you have angina or clogged coronary arteries, there is a remote possibility that Nisoldipine will make the condition worse, or even trigger a heart attack, when you first start taking the drug or its dosage is increased. Your doctor should be especially cautious if you have angina, heart failure, or other heart problems, particularly if you are also taking a medication known as a beta-blocker, such as Tenormin. |
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Information on this website is provided for educational purposes and should not replace discussions with your doctor. |
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