Nifedipine (Calcigard 5) 5mg Softgel Capsule 100's

Generic Name: Nifedipine

Brand Name: Calcigard 5

Strength: 5mg 

Form: Capsule

Manufacturer:

Imported and Distributed by:

Classification: Calcium Channel Blocker

Indication/Uses:

Nifedipine (Calcigard 5) 5mg Softgel Capsules are used primarily for the management of 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 lower blood pressure by relaxing and widening the blood vessels, reducing 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 alleviate symptoms by improving blood flow to the heart muscle and reducing the frequency and severity of angina attacks.

3. Chronic Stable Angina:

   • Prevention: It can be used to prevent episodes of chronic stable angina, especially 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 that causes reduced blood flow to the extremities, leading to 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 blood vessels. This inhibition prevents calcium from entering the cells, leading to relaxation and dilation of blood vessels. This action reduces blood pressure and improves blood flow to the heart.

Dosage and Administration

• Typical Dosage:
  • Hypertension: The usual starting dose is 5 mg once or twice daily, which can be adjusted based on response and tolerability. The maximum recommended dose is typically 30 mg to 60 mg per day, depending on the condition being treated.
  • Angina Pectoris: The starting dose is generally 5 mg to 10 mg taken three to four times a day, adjusted based on the severity of symptoms and response to treatment.
  • Raynaud's Phenomenon: Dosage is individualized based on symptom severity and response.
• Administration: The softgel capsules should be taken 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 severe cardiovascular conditions, as nifedipine can impact heart function and blood pressure.
• Liver Function: Use with caution in patients with liver impairment, as nifedipine is metabolized by the liver.
• Drug Interactions: Nifedipine may interact with other medications, including 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 necessary to evaluate the effectiveness of the medication and adjust the dosage if needed.
• Side Effects: Monitor for adverse effects, especially if they are severe or persistent, and report them to your healthcare provider.

Nifedipine (Calcigard 5) 5mg Softgel Capsules are used for the management of hypertension, angina pectoris, and occasionally Raynaud's phenomenon. Proper dosage, adherence to treatment, and monitoring for side effects are essential for effective management of cardiovascular conditions.