Nifedipine
NHS information about the medicine nifedipine, including what it's used for, who can take it, how to take it and side effects.
What nifedipine is for
Nifedipine is used to treat:
- high blood pressure (hypertension)
- angina
- Raynaud's, a condition that stops blood flowing properly to your fingers and toes
Nifedipine is a type of medicine called a calcium-channel blocker. It works by relaxing and widening your blood vessels, which helps increase the blood flow and oxygen supply to your heart.
How to take nifedipine
Nifedipine usually comes as capsules or tablets that you swallow.
You'll usually need to take it 1 to 3 times a day, depending on the type of capsule or tablet you have.
You can take nifedipine with our without food.
Your doctor will tell you how much nifedipine to take and for how long. Treatment for high blood pressure is often long term.
Always check the packet or leaflet that comes with your medicine. Ask a pharmacist or doctor for advice if you're not sure how to take it or you have any problems taking it.
If you miss a dose of nifedipine
If you miss a dose of nifedipine, take it as soon as you remember, then wait at least 12 hours before taking your next dose.
Do not take 2 doses at the same time to make up for a missed one.
If you take too much nifedipine
Taking an extra dose of nifedipine can be dangerous.
Side effects of nifedipine
Like all medicines, nifedipine can cause side effects, but not everyone gets them.
Common side effects
Common side effects of nifedipine include:
- headaches
- flushing – where your face, neck or chest suddenly feel warm and look red (redness may be harder to see on black or brown skin)
- generally feeling unwell
- finding it difficult to poo (constipation)
- swollen ankles (oedema)
More about side effects
These are not all the side effects of nifedipine.
For a full list, see the leaflet that comes with your medicine or search for your medicine on the electronic medicines compendium website.
You can report any side effects you get on the Yellow Card website
Who can and cannot take nifedipine
Most adults can take nifedipine, but it's not suitable for everyone.
For example, nifedipine may not be suitable if you have:
- ever had an allergic reaction or serious side effect from nifedipine or a similar medicine
- low blood pressure – it may lower your blood pressure further
- a heart condition, such as heart failure
- unstable angina (chest pains that come on at any time) or angina that is getting worse
- diabetes
- a severe liver or kidney condition
Tell your doctor about any medical conditions you have before taking nifedipine.
Breastfeeding and nifedipine
You can usually take nifedipine if you're breastfeeding.
It's rare for breastfed babies to get any side effects of medicines you're using, but speak to a healthcare professional or call NHS 111 if you have any concerns about your baby.
Pregnancy and nifedipine
You can usually take nifedipine if you're pregnant. If you're already taking it, your doctor may suggest carrying on if they think the benefits outweigh the risks.
Do not stop taking nifedipine unless you're told to.
Taking nifedipine with other medicines, food and drink
There are some medicines, remedies and supplements that may not mix well with nifedipine.
These include:
- other blood pressure medicines
- some antibiotics
- stomach ulcer medicines, such as cimetidine
- medicines for heart conditions, such as digoxin or beta blockers
- epilepsy medicines such as carbamazepine
- medicines to treat fungal infections
Before taking nifedipine, tell your doctor if you're taking any other medicines, herbal remedies, vitamins or supplements.
Food, drink and alcohol with nifedipine
Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking nifedipine because it can increase the chance of side effects.
It's best not to drink alcohol while taking nifedipine as it can increase the risk of side effects, such as low blood pressure.
Find out more about your medicine
To find out more about your medicine, you can:
- check the leaflet that comes with it
- search for your medicine leaflet on the electronic medicines compendium website
- speak to a pharmacist or doctor
