Procardia XL
Generic Name: Nifedipine
What is Procardia XL?
Procardia XL is used to treat angina (chest pain) and high blood pressure. Procardia XL is a calcium channel blocker, a type of drug that helps the heart work better by relaxing the muscles in the walls of the arteries.What is the most important information I should know about Procardia XL?
Procardia XL controls blood pressure but does not cure it. If you have high blood pressure, take Procardia XL regularly. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Procardia XL. Continue taking the medication even if you are feeling well.Procardia XL may cause your blood pressure to become too low, which may make you feel lightheaded or faint. Your doctor should check your blood pressure when you start taking Procardia XL and continue monitoring it while your dosage is being adjusted.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience increased angina when you start taking Procardia XL, when your dosage is increased, or if you suddenly stop taking beta-blockers (atenolol, propranolol, metoprolol) when beginning Procardia XL therapy.
Notify your doctor and dentist that you are taking Procardia XL before you have surgery or dental treatment, or if you have a medical emergency.
Who should not take Procardia XL?
Procardia XL should not be used if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it or you are sensitive to other calcium channel blockers. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.Do not take Procardia XL for the first week or two following a heart attack, or if you are in danger of a heart attack.
What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Procardia XL?
Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medications you are taking before beginning treatment with Procardia XL. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you have kidney disease, liver disease, stomach or intestinal narrowing, another disease of the heart or blood vessels, aortic stenosis (a narrowing of the aortic valve), heart failure, low blood pressure, or coronary artery disease.What is the usual dosage?
The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.Adults: The starting dose is usually a 30- or 60-mg tablet, taken once daily. Your doctor may increase the dose over 1-2 weeks if not satisfied with the way the drug is working. Doses above 120 mg per day are not recommended.
How should I take Procardia XL?
Take Procardia XL exactly as prescribed by your doctor, even if your symptoms have disappeared. Take it once a day, the same time each day, with or without food.Procardia XL tablets are designed to release the medication into your bloodstream slowly. If something that looks like a tablet appears in your stool, this is normal and means that the medication has been released, and the shell that contained the medication has been eliminated from your body.
Procardia XL tablets should be swallowed whole. Do not break, crush, or chew them.
What should I avoid while taking Procardia XL?
Do not combine Procardia XL with grapefruit juice, which can dramatically increase the effect of the drug.What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Procardia XL?
If Procardia XL is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Procardia XL with the following: cimetidine, digoxin, grapefruit or grapefruit juice, and quinidine.What are the possible side effects of Procardia XL?
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.Side effects may include: constipation, cough, dizziness, fatigue, flushing, giddiness, headache, heartburn, heat sensation, lightheadedness, mood changes, muscle cramps, nasal congestion, nausea, sore throat, swelling (of arms, legs, hands, and feet), tremors, wheezing
Can I receive Procardia XL if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of Procardia XL during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.What should I do if I miss a dose of Procardia XL?
If you miss a dose of Procardia XL, take the missed dose as soon as you remember it. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and return to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take two doses at once.How should I store Procardia XL?
Store at room temperature.
I'm Kristen Dore, PharmD. Welcome to PDR Health!
