Why is this medication prescribed?

Afeditab CR (nifedipine) is a medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and certain types of angina (chest pain). It belongs to a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. Here’s how it works:

• Hypertension: It helps relax and widen blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and makes it easier for the heart to pump blood.
• Angina: It reduces the frequency and severity of chest pain by improving blood flow to the heart.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use Afeditab CR :

• Dosage: Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding the dosage. It’s usually taken once daily.
• Administration: Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush, chew, or break it, as it’s designed to release the medication slowly over time.
• Timing: Take it at the same time each day to help remember.
• Consistency: Try to keep your dose and schedule consistent to maintain steady blood levels of the medication.
• Monitoring: Regular check-ups with your doctor are important to monitor your blood pressure and adjust the dose if necessary.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when using Afeditab CR and inform them about any other medications you are taking, as drug interactions can occur.

Other uses for this medicine

• Raynaud’s Phenomenon: It helps improve blood flow and reduce the frequency and severity of attacks in people with this condition, which affects blood flow to the fingers and toes.
• Certain Types of Heart Rhythm Disorders: Occasionally, it may be used to help manage some arrhythmias (irregular heartbeats), though this is less common.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions:

• Allergies: Inform your doctor if you have any allergies to nifedipine or other medications.
• Heart Conditions: If you have heart failure or any severe heart conditions, discuss this with your doctor, as nifedipine may affect heart function.
• Liver or Kidney Issues: Notify your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, as these can affect how nifedipine is metabolized.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your doctor of all medications and supplements you are taking, as nifedipine can interact with other drugs, potentially altering their effects.
• Alcohol and Grapefruit Juice: Limit alcohol consumption and avoid grapefruit juice, as these can affect how nifedipine works.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Be cautious when driving or operating machinery until you know how nifedipine affects you, as it may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some people.

Always follow your doctor’s advice and read the medication guide provided with your prescription.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Grapefruit Juice: Avoid grapefruit juice, as it can interact with nifedipine and affect how the medication works.
• Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake, as it can enhance certain side effects of nifedipine, such as dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Balanced Diet: Maintain a balanced diet to support overall health, but no specific dietary restrictions are typically required beyond avoiding grapefruit juice.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you remember within 12 hours of the missed dose, take it as soon as you can.
• Skip the Missed Dose: If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Contact Your Doctor: If you’re unsure or have missed multiple doses, consult your healthcare provider for advice.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Afeditab CR (nifedipine) can cause a range of side effects. While not everyone experiences them, it’s important to be aware of potential reactions. Common side effects include:

• Swelling: Particularly of the ankles, feet, or hands.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Especially when standing up quickly.
• Headache: This can be a common effect as your body adjusts to the medication.
• Flushing: A feeling of warmth or redness in the face.
• Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
• Nausea: Some people may experience stomach upset or nausea.
• Constipation: Difficulty in bowel movements.

Less common but more serious side effects include:

• Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms like rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
• Severe Hypotension: Extremely low blood pressure, which may cause fainting or severe dizziness.
• Rapid Heartbeat or Palpitations: Noticeable changes in heart rhythm or increased heart rate.
• Jaundice: Yellowing of the skin or eyes, indicating potential liver issues.

If you experience any severe or concerning symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately. It’s also important to report any new or unusual symptoms to your doctor to ensure proper management of your condition.

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

Storage of Afeditab CR:

• Temperature: Store Afeditab CR at room temperature, away from heat and moisture. Typically, this means keeping it in a dry place at temperatures between 59°F and 86°F (15°C and 30°C).
• Container: Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of reach of children.
• Avoid Light: Protect the tablets from light if the packaging specifies this.

Disposal of Afeditab CR:

• Medication Take-Back Programs: The best way to dispose of Afeditab CR is through a local medication take-back program or drop-off site.
• FDA Flush List: If there are no take-back programs available, check if your medication is on the FDA’s flush list for safe disposal in the toilet. Most medications are not on this list, but it’s worth verifying.
• Household Disposal: If no other options are available, you can mix the medication with an undesirable substance like used coffee grounds or cat litter, place it in a sealed container or bag, and throw it away in your household trash. Be sure to remove any personal information from the prescription label.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Call Emergency Services: If you suspect an overdose, contact emergency services immediately or go to the nearest emergency room.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms may include severe dizziness, fainting, rapid or irregular heartbeat, or very low blood pressure.
• Contact Poison Control: You can also call your local poison control center for additional guidance.

What other information should I know?

• Follow-Up Appointments: Regular check-ups with your doctor are important to monitor your condition and adjust the medication if necessary.
• Medication Adherence: Take Afeditab CR exactly as prescribed to ensure its effectiveness and reduce the risk of side effects.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Make sure all your healthcare providers know you’re taking Afeditab CR, including dentists and other specialists.
• Emergency ID: Consider carrying an emergency ID or information card that lists your medications in case of medical emergencies.

Always refer to the medication guide provided with your prescription and consult your healthcare provider for any specific concerns or questions regarding Afeditab CR.