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Nifedipine: uses, side effects & brands
Nifedipine is a calcium-channel blocker for blood pressure and angina. It belongs to the Calcium-channel blocker (blood pressure) group. These relax and widen blood vessels to lower blood pressure and ease angina.
Drug type — dosing is set by your doctor
| Measure | Range |
|---|---|
| Drug class | Calcium-channel blocker (blood pressure) |
| Type | Prescription |
| Dose | Individual — ask your doctor or pharmacist |
What it is used for
- High blood pressure
- Angina (chest pain)
- Raynaud's (cold, white fingers)
Common brand names
- India: Depin, Nicardia, Calcigard
- Worldwide: Adalat, Procardia
Common side effects
- Ankle swelling
- Flushing and headache
- Dizziness or a fast heartbeat
- Swollen gums with long-term use
Before taking it — precautions
- Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice
- Swallow long-acting tablets whole — do not crush or chew
- Tell your doctor about heart problems, liver disease, pregnancy or other medicines
When to see a doctor urgently
- Chest pain that is new or worse (urgent)
- Fainting or very low blood pressure
- Swelling of the face or throat, or severe rash (rare — urgent)
Frequently asked questions
Why are my ankles swollen on nifedipine?
Nifedipine widens small blood vessels, which can let fluid pool in the ankles. It is not usually harmful but tell your doctor if it bothers you.
Can I eat grapefruit with nifedipine?
No — grapefruit raises nifedipine levels in the blood and can cause low blood pressure and side effects.
Why must long-acting nifedipine be swallowed whole?
Crushing or chewing releases the medicine too fast, which can cause a sudden drop in blood pressure.
Explore more
Sources & further reading
- World Health Organization (WHO)
- MedlinePlus — U.S. National Library of Medicine
- Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, India
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
Reviewed by Dr. Sanjay Anbu, MBBS. MedDroid is an AI medical assistant and can make mistakes. It provides general health information, not a diagnosis or medical advice — always consult a qualified clinician. In an emergency, contact your local emergency number immediately.