Why is this medication prescribed?

Adalat CC, which contains the generic medication nifedipine, is primarily prescribed for treating conditions related to high blood pressure and certain types of angina (chest pain). Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing blood vessels, which helps lower blood pressure and improve blood flow to the heart. It’s often used for:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): By relaxing blood vessels, nifedipine helps reduce the pressure against the vessel walls, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
• Angina: It can help reduce the frequency and severity of chest pain by improving blood flow to the heart muscle.
• Certain Types of Arrhythmias (Irregular Heartbeats): It can help manage specific types of abnormal heart rhythms.

Nifedipine works by blocking calcium from entering the heart and blood vessel cells, which helps to relax and widen the blood vessels.

How should this medicine be used?

Adalat CC (generic nifedipine) should be used according to your doctor’s instructions. Here are some general guidelines:

• Dosage: Take the medication exactly as prescribed. Do not take more or less than directed.
• Administration: Swallow the extended-release tablets whole with a glass of water. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablets, as this can affect how the medication is released and absorbed.
• Timing: It’s usually taken once a day. Try to take it at the same time each day to help remember.
• Food: You can take it with or without food.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it’s almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Interactions: Inform your doctor of any other medications you’re taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, as nifedipine can interact with other substances.
• Monitoring: Regular follow-up appointments may be necessary to monitor your condition and adjust the dose if needed.

Always consult your healthcare provider for specific instructions tailored to your situation.

Other uses for this medicine

In addition to managing high blood pressure, angina, and certain arrhythmias, Adalat CC (nifedipine) may also be used for:

• Raynaud’s Phenomenon: A condition where small blood vessels in extremities constrict excessively, leading to cold fingers and toes.
• Certain Types of Migraines: It may be used off-label to help prevent migraines in some cases.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions to Follow:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies, particularly to nifedipine or other calcium channel blockers.
• Heart Conditions: If you have a history of heart failure, low blood pressure, or certain heart conditions, let your doctor know. Nifedipine can affect heart function.
• Liver Function: If you have liver issues, your doctor might need to adjust your dose, as liver problems can affect how the drug is metabolized.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Nifedipine is generally not recommended during pregnancy unless absolutely necessary.
• Interactions with Other Medications: Be sure to inform your doctor about all medications you’re taking, including prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal supplements, as nifedipine can interact with various drugs.
• Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption while taking nifedipine, as it can exacerbate side effects like dizziness and lightheadedness.
• Monitoring: Regularly monitor your blood pressure and heart rate as directed by your healthcare provider to ensure the medication is working effectively and to check for any side effects.

Always consult with your healthcare provider for advice tailored to your specific health needs and conditions.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Grapefruit: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking nifedipine, as it can increase the drug’s levels in your blood and enhance the risk of side effects.
• Balanced Diet: Maintain a balanced diet with moderate salt intake to help manage blood pressure. Follow any dietary guidelines provided by your healthcare provider.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Missed Dose: If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• Close to Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
• Consult Your Doctor: If you miss doses frequently or have any questions about missed doses, consult your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Adalat CC (nifedipine) can cause a range of side effects. Some are more common and mild, while others can be more serious. Here’s a list of potential side effects:

Common Side Effects:

• Headache
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness
• Flushing (redness or warmth in the face)
• Swelling (edema) in the ankles, feet, or hands
• Nausea or Vomiting
• Fatigue or Tiredness

Less Common but Serious Side Effects:

• Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat: Palpitations or feeling your heart race.
• Severe Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Chest Pain or Angina: New or worsening chest pain.
• Severe Swelling: Significant swelling of the legs, arms, or face.
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin or eyes, which may indicate liver issues.
• Low Blood Pressure: Symptoms include severe dizziness, fainting, or a feeling of lightheadedness when standing up.
• Gingival Hyperplasia: Overgrowth of the gums.

If you experience any serious side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, seek medical attention immediately. For less severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider to discuss whether you should continue the medication or adjust the dose.

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

Storage of Adalat CC:

• Temperature: Store the medication at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Typically, this means between 68°F and 77°F (20°C to 25°C).
• Light and Humidity: Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and away from light and moisture.
• Children and Pets: Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets to prevent accidental ingestion.

Disposal of Adalat CC:

• Unused or Expired Medication: Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless specifically instructed to do so. This can harm the environment.
• Drug Take-Back Programs: Check for local drug take-back programs or disposal sites. Many communities offer designated locations where you can safely dispose of unused medications.
• Disposal Instructions: If no take-back program is available, consult your pharmacist or local waste disposal authorities for guidance on how to dispose of the medication safely.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Emergency Symptoms: Symptoms of an overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, rapid or irregular heartbeat, or swelling of the ankles, feet, or hands.
• Immediate Action: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical attention immediately.
• Contact Information: Call your local emergency number (e.g., 911 in the U.S.) or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Poison Control: You can also contact Poison Control for advice on what to do in case of an overdose. In the U.S., the number is 1-800-222-1222.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider may be necessary to monitor your condition and adjust the medication if needed.
• Medical History: Keep your healthcare provider informed about any changes in your medical history or new symptoms.
• Interactions: Be aware of potential drug interactions with other medications or supplements you are taking. Inform your healthcare provider about all your current treatments.
• Missed Doses: If you miss a dose, follow the instructions provided earlier for taking a missed dose, and consult your healthcare provider if you frequently miss doses.
• Patient Information: Always read the patient information leaflet that comes with your medication for specific details about its use, potential side effects, and other important information.