| This medication is used for certain types of chest pain (angina). It may help to increase exercise tolerance and decrease the frequency of angina attacks. Nifedipine belongs to a class of medications known as calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. This medication must be taken regularly to be effective. It should not be used to treat attacks of chest pain when they occur. Use other medications (e.g., sublingual nitroglycerin) to relieve attacks of chest pain as directed by your doctor. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details. OTHER USES: This section contains uses of this drug that are not listed in the approved professional labeling for the drug but that may be prescribed by your health care professional. Use this drug for a condition that is listed in this section only if it has been so prescribed by your health care professional. This medication may also be used alone or in combination with other drugs to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. This medication may also be used to treat certain blood circulation disorders (Raynaud's syndrome). How to use Nifedipine Oral Take this medication by mouth on an empty stomach, usually three times daily or as directed by your doctor. Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the capsules. Your doctor may gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully. The dosage is based on your age, medical condition and response to therapy.Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Grapefruit juice can increase the amount of certain medications in your bloodstream. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. Do not suddenly stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. Inform your doctor if your condition worsens (e.g., your routine blood pressure readings increase). Nifedipine Oral is used to treat the following: High Blood Pressure Nifedipine Oral may also be used to treat: Type of Angina Where Chest Pain Occurs at Rest, A Continuous Squeezing Pain in the Chest, Occasional Numbness, Prickling, or Tingling of Fingers and Toes |
