Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker commonly used to lower blood pressure and ease chest pain (angina). You’ll see it as immediate‑release tablets or extended‑release (ER) capsules. The ER form gives steadier control and fewer sudden drops in blood pressure. This page gives clear, practical advice so you know how to take nifedipine, what to watch for, and when to call your doctor.
Doctors prescribe nifedipine mainly for high blood pressure and angina. It relaxes blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart’s workload. In specific situations, clinicians also use nifedipine to slow preterm labor — but that’s a doctor-only decision and not a home treatment.
Immediate‑release nifedipine acts fast and may cause quick changes in blood pressure. Extended‑release versions release the drug slowly over the day and are usually preferred for long‑term control.
Follow your prescriber’s dose — don’t guess. ER tablets should be swallowed whole. You can usually take nifedipine with or without food, but try to take it the same way every day to keep levels steady. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s close to the next dose; don’t double up.
A few simple habits make a big difference: check your blood pressure regularly, sit or lie down if you feel dizzy, and keep a list of all meds and supplements you use.
Common side effects are headache, flushing, swelling of the ankles, dizziness, and a fast heartbeat. Most are mild and improve after a few days or weeks. If you get severe swelling, fainting, chest pain, or very low blood pressure, seek medical help right away.
Drug interactions matter. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice — they raise nifedipine levels and increase side effects. Tell your doctor if you take other blood pressure drugs, nitrates, erectile dysfunction meds, or strong CYP3A4 inhibitors like certain antifungals and antibiotics. These combinations can cause dangerously low blood pressure.
Certain people need extra caution: those with very low blood pressure, recent heart attack, liver problems, or severe narrowing of the aortic valve. Pregnant or breastfeeding people should discuss risks and benefits with their provider — nifedipine is sometimes used in pregnancy but only under close supervision.
If your doctor wants you to stop nifedipine, they’ll usually taper it rather than stop suddenly. Abruptly stopping can cause rebound high blood pressure or chest pain.
Storage is simple: keep nifedipine at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Always check expiration dates and keep medicines out of reach of children.
Questions for your prescriber: Is ER or immediate‑release best for me? What signs should make me call you? How often should I check my blood pressure? Bringing these up makes follow‑up easier and safer.
Want a quick recap? Nifedipine works well for high blood pressure and angina, but follow dosing, avoid grapefruit, watch for swelling and dizziness, and report serious symptoms right away.
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