Nifedipine (Calcigard 10) 10mg Softgel Capsule 100's

Generic Name: Nifedipine

Brand Name: Calcigard 10

Strength: 10mg

Form: Capsule

Manufacturer:

Imported and Distributed by:

Classification: Calcium Channel Blocker

Indication/Uses:

Nifedipine (Calcigard 10) 10mg Softgel Capsules are a type of calcium channel blocker used primarily for managing cardiovascular conditions. Here are the primary indications and uses for this medication:

Indications and Uses

1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure):

   • Blood Pressure Control: Nifedipine is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It helps to lower blood pressure by relaxing and widening the blood vessels, which reduces the workload on the heart.

2. Angina Pectoris:

   • Management of Chest Pain: Nifedipine is used to manage angina (chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart). It helps to reduce the frequency and severity of angina attacks by improving blood flow to the heart muscle.

3. Chronic Stable Angina:

   • Prevention: It can also be used to prevent episodes of chronic stable angina, particularly when triggered by physical exertion or stress.

4. Raynaud's Phenomenon:

   • Symptom Relief: Nifedipine is sometimes used to manage symptoms of Raynaud's phenomenon, a condition characterized by reduced blood flow to the extremities, causing color changes and pain in the fingers and toes.

Mechanism of Action

• Calcium Channel Blocker: Nifedipine works by blocking calcium channels in the smooth muscle cells of the blood vessels. This inhibition prevents calcium from entering the cells, leading to relaxation and dilation of the blood vessels, which reduces blood pressure and improves blood flow to the heart.

Dosage and Administration

• Typical Dosage:
  • Hypertension: The usual starting dose is 10 mg once daily, which may be adjusted based on response and tolerability. The maximum recommended dose is typically 30 mg to 60 mg per day.
  • Angina Pectoris: The usual dose is 10 mg to 20 mg taken three to four times a day, depending on the severity of symptoms and response to treatment.
  • Raynaud's Phenomenon: Dosage is typically individualized based on the severity of symptoms and response to therapy.
• Administration: Take the softgel capsules orally, with or without food. Swallow the capsules whole; do not crush or chew them.

Precautions

• Cardiovascular Conditions: Use with caution in patients with heart failure or other severe cardiovascular conditions, as nifedipine can affect heart function and blood pressure.
• Liver Function: Caution is advised in patients with liver impairment, as the drug is metabolized in the liver.
• Drug Interactions: Nifedipine can interact with other medications, including certain antihypertensives, antibiotics, and antifungals. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications you are taking.

Side Effects

• Common: Swelling of the ankles and feet (edema), headache, dizziness, flushing, and nausea.
• Less Common: Palpitations, hypotension (low blood pressure), and abdominal pain.

Monitoring

• Effectiveness: Regular monitoring of blood pressure and symptoms is important to assess the effectiveness of the medication and make necessary adjustments.
• Side Effects: Monitor for any adverse effects and report them to your healthcare provider, especially if they are severe or persistent.

Nifedipine (Calcigard 10) 10mg Softgel Capsules are used for the management of hypertension, angina pectoris, and sometimes Raynaud's phenomenon. Proper dosage, adherence to the prescribed regimen, and monitoring for side effects are essential for effective treatment and management of cardiovascular conditions.