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Nifedipine

Common Brand Names: Adalat, Procardia

Side Effects & Precautions

Medically reviewed by Jessica Swirble, PharmD
Last updated on 6/6/2024

Drug Information | Side Effects | Use & Dosage | Request a Prescription

What are the side effects of nifedipine?

The use of nifedipine can lead to various side effects in some individuals.

Common mild side effects of nifedipine use include:

  • Nausea
  • Lightheadedness
  • Dizziness
  • Flushing (warm sensation in the face)
  • Headache
  • Heartburn
  • Muscle cramps
  • Heart palpitations
  • Cough
  • Swelling of arms or legs
  • Weakness

More severe side effects of nifedipine use can include:
Shortness of breath
Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat (angioedema)
Chest pain
Yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Fainting

If you experience any severe or concerning side effects while taking nifedipine, contact your healthcare provider right away.

What should I tell my healthcare provider before using nifedipine?

Inform your healthcare provider about any existing medical conditions, allergies, or other medications you are taking before starting treatment with nifedipine. This includes prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and dietary supplements, as they may interact with nifedipine.

Tell your provider if you are taking these medications or supplements:

  • Anticoagulants
  • Antifungals
  • Anticonvulsants
  • Antibiotics
  • Beta-blockers
  • Histamine H2-receptor antagonists
  • Digoxin
  • Calcium channel blockers
  • Alpha-blockers
  • Opioids
  • Antiarrhythmics
  • HIV Protease inhibitors
  • Biguanides
  • Antidepressants
  • Rifamycins
  • Immunosuppressants

You should also mention medical conditions such as:

  • Conditions affecting your digestive system
  • Heart disease
  • Liver disease
  • Kidney disease
  • Recent myocardial infarction

If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the potential risks and benefits of using nifedipine with your healthcare provider.

Are there any other special instructions I should follow?

Take nifedipine exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider. Do not exceed the recommended dose or duration of treatment.

Your provider may direct you to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking nifedipine, as they can increase the medication's effects, leading to side effects.

Complete the full course of treatment, even if you feel better, to ensure the medication's effectiveness in managing your condition.

What should I do in case of an overdose?

In case of a nifedipine overdose, seek medical attention immediately. Symptoms of overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, rapid heartbeat, or shortness of breath. If you suspect an overdose, contact the poison control helpline at 1-800-222-1222 or call emergency services.