Why is this medication prescribed?

Cardene (generic name: nicardipine) is a medication prescribed primarily for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) and chronic stable angina (chest pain). It belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers, which work by relaxing the blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood and reducing its workload. This helps to lower blood pressure and prevent chest pain.

How should this medicine be used?

Cardene should be used according to the prescribing doctor’s instructions. Here are general guidelines for its use:

• Dosage: The dosage of Cardene will vary depending on the specific condition being treated, the severity of the condition, and the patient’s response to the medication. It is available in oral capsule form and as an intravenous (IV) injection.
• Oral Use: For hypertension, the typical starting dose for adults is 20 mg taken orally three times a day. The dose may be adjusted by the doctor based on the patient’s response, but it generally ranges from 20 mg to 40 mg three times a day. For chronic stable angina, the dosage may also vary, and the doctor will determine the appropriate dose.
• Timing: Cardene should be taken at the same times each day to maintain an even level of the medication in the bloodstream.
• Food: It can be taken with or without food. If it upsets the stomach, taking it with food might help.
• Compliance: It’s important to take Cardene regularly and not to miss doses. Stopping the medication suddenly can worsen the condition.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood pressure and heart function is crucial to ensure the medication is working effectively and to adjust the dosage if necessary.
• Precautions: Patients should inform their doctor about any other medications they are taking, as well as any medical conditions, especially heart conditions, liver disease, or kidney disease. It’s also important to avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking Cardene, as they can interfere with how the medication works.

Always follow the healthcare provider’s instructions and report any side effects or unusual symptoms immediately.

Other uses for this medicine

Some off-label uses may include:

• Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Cardene’s ability to dilate blood vessels may help alleviate symptoms of Raynaud’s phenomenon, a condition characterized by vasospasm in the fingers and toes.
• Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Cardene may be used to manage high blood pressure associated with subarachnoid hemorrhage, a type of stroke caused by bleeding into the space surrounding the brain.
• Preterm Labor: In some cases, Cardene may be used to manage high blood pressure associated with preterm labor to help delay delivery and improve outcomes for both the mother and baby.

What special precautions should I follow?

Regarding special precautions for Cardene use, it’s crucial to consider the following:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any allergies to nicardipine or other medications.
• Medical History: Disclose your medical history, especially if you have a history of heart problems, liver disease, or kidney disease.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of Cardene with your doctor. Cardene may be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the risks, but it should be used with caution.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor about all the medications, supplements, and herbal products you are currently taking, as Cardene may interact with certain drugs, including other blood pressure medications, grapefruit juice, and certain antibiotics.
• Dizziness: Cardene may cause dizziness or lightheadedness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities that require alertness until you know how Cardene affects you.
• Alcohol: Limit alcoholic beverages while taking Cardene, as alcohol can further lower your blood pressure and increase the risk of side effects.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and ask any questions you may have about Cardene’s use and potential side effects. If you experience any unusual symptoms or side effects while taking Cardene, contact your healthcare provider promptly.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Grapefruit Juice: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Cardene, as it can interfere with the metabolism of the medication and increase the risk of side effects.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you miss a dose of the oral form of Cardene, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Cardene (nicardipine) may cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Cardene can include:

• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling): This sensation typically affects the face, neck, or chest.
• Dizziness or lightheadedness: Some individuals may feel dizzy or lightheaded, especially when standing up from a sitting or lying position.
• Headache: Headaches are a common side effect of Cardene use.
• Nausea or stomach discomfort: Some people may experience nausea, stomach pain, or discomfort while taking Cardene.
• Weakness or tiredness: Fatigue or weakness may occur as a side effect of Cardene.
• Swelling in the ankles or feet: Cardene can sometimes cause fluid retention, leading to swelling in the lower extremities.
• Low blood pressure (hypotension): Cardene is a blood pressure medication, so it may cause blood pressure to drop too low in some individuals, leading to symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or feeling weak.
• Rapid heartbeat (tachycardia): In some cases, Cardene may cause an increase in heart rate.
• Flu-like symptoms: Some individuals may experience symptoms similar to the flu, such as fever, chills, or body aches.
• Constipation: Constipation can occur as a side effect of Cardene use.

These are not all the possible side effects of Cardene. Serious side effects are rare but can occur. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects while taking Cardene, or if you have any concerns about your symptoms, contact your healthcare provider promptly. They can evaluate your condition and provide appropriate guidance. Additionally, if you experience signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing, seek immediate medical attention.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage and disposal guidelines for Cardene (nicardipine) are as follows:

• Storage: Keep Cardene tablets or capsules at room temperature away from light and moisture. Store them in a tightly closed container, and keep them out of reach of children and pets.
• Disposal: Dispose of any unused or expired Cardene medication properly. Do not flush it down the toilet or pour it down the drain unless instructed to do so. Consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal company for guidance on how to safely dispose of medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as fainting, difficulty breathing, rapid heartbeat, or loss of consciousness, seek immediate medical attention by calling emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room.
• Contact Poison Control: If you believe someone has overdosed on Cardene, contact your local poison control center or emergency department for advice. They can provide guidance on what steps to take next.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your healthcare provider may periodically monitor your blood pressure and heart rate while you are taking Cardene to ensure that the medication is working effectively and that you are not experiencing any adverse effects.
• Avoid Alcohol: Limit your consumption of alcohol while taking Cardene, as alcohol can exacerbate certain side effects of the medication, such as dizziness and lightheadedness.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your healthcare provider while taking Cardene. These appointments allow your doctor to monitor your progress, adjust your dosage if necessary, and address any concerns you may have.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Make sure to inform all healthcare providers involved in your care, including doctors, dentists, and pharmacists, that you are taking Cardene. This can help prevent potential drug interactions and ensure that you receive appropriate medical care.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the use of Cardene and consult them if you have any questions or concerns about the medication.