Nifedicor (Nifedipine)

• Nifedipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker used to manage conditions related to vascular tone and cardiac workload.
• Hypertension: lowers systemic blood pressure by relaxing arterial smooth muscle.
• Chronic stable angina: reduces myocardial oxygen demand and improves exercise tolerance.
• Raynaud's phenomenon: diminishes vasospasm in peripheral arteries, relieving episodic colour changes and pain.

• Nifedipine selectively blocks L-type calcium channels on vascular smooth‑muscle cells, preventing calcium influx that is necessary for contraction. This inhibition leads to vasodilation of peripheral arterioles, decreased peripheral vascular resistance, and reduced cardiac after‑load, thereby lowering blood pressure and alleviating myocardial oxygen demand.

Nifedipine may cause a range of adverse reactions, from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

• Flushing: warmth and redness, especially of the face.
• Headache: often transient and mild.
• Peripheral edema: swelling of ankles or lower legs.
• Dizziness or light‑headedness.
• Tachycardia: rapid heart rate.
• Nausea or abdominal discomfort.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe hypotension: dangerously low blood pressure.
• Myocardial infarction: rare but possible in high‑risk patients.
• Cardiac arrhythmias: irregular heart rhythms.
• Hepatic dysfunction: abnormal liver enzymes.
• Angioedema or severe allergic reaction.
• Life‑threatening skin reactions such as Stevens‑Johnson syndrome.

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should evaluate patient‑specific factors and monitor for potential complications.

• Blood pressure monitoring: check regularly to avoid excessive hypotension.
• Discontinuation: taper gradually to prevent rebound hypertension.
• Hepatic impairment: adjust dose or avoid if severe liver disease.
• Concomitant grapefruit juice: avoid as it can increase plasma levels.
• Heart failure: use with caution; monitor for worsening symptoms.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Nifedipine can interact with several medicines, altering its efficacy or safety profile.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin): may cause toxic plasma concentrations.
• Concurrent use with other potent antihypertensives (e.g., beta‑blockers, ACE inhibitors) can precipitate severe hypotension.
• Nitrates: combined use may lead to profound vasodilation and hypotension.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine): may reduce therapeutic effect.
• Beta‑blockers: may mask tachycardia, requiring heart‑rate monitoring.
• Digoxin: increased risk of arrhythmia; monitor serum levels.
• Alcohol: additive central nervous system depression; advise moderation.
• Diuretics: may enhance hypotensive response; adjust dose as needed.