GENERIC NAME: nicardipine

BRAND NAME: Cardene

DRUG CLASS AND MECHANISM: Nicardipine belongs to a class of medications called calcium channel blockers. These medications block the transport of calcium into the smooth muscle cells lining the arteries of the body. Since calcium is important in muscle contraction, blocking calcium transport relaxes artery muscles and dilates these arteries. Relaxing the artery muscles lowers blood pressure, which reduces the burden on the heart as it pumps blood to the body. Reducing the heart burden lessens the heart muscle's demand for oxygen, and helps prevent angina in patients with coronary artery disease. For more detailed information related to coronary artery disease, please visit the following articles: Chest Pain , Cholesterol , and Heart Attack Unlike other calcium blockers, nicardipine has little effect on the heart muscle or on the electrical conduction of the heart.

PRESCRIPTION: yes

GENERIC AVAILABLE: no

PREPARATIONS: capsules (20, 30mg), sustained release ( 30, 45, 60mg)

STORAGE: Should be stored at room temperature in a tightly closed container.

PRESCRIBED FOR: Nicardipine dilates arteries in the body and is useful in the treatment of high blood pressure. It also lowers the pressure burden on the heart, and is useful alone or in combination with beta- blockers in the treatment of angina related to exertion. For further information on beta-blockers, please visit propranolol (Inderal).

DOSING: Nicardipine can be administered with or without food. Nicardipine is metabolized mainly by the liver with some kidney excretion. Dosages may need to be lowered in patients with liver or kidney dysfunction.

DRUG INTERACTIONS: Nicardipine can sometimes cause an increase in the frequency and duration of angina. The reason for this side effect is not clearly understood. Excessively low blood pressures can occur in rare instances, especially during initiation of treatment or following dose adjustment. Cimetidine (Tagamet) increases nicardipine levels and its effects. Safe use of nicardipine in children has not been established.

NURSING MOTHERS: The medication can enter breast milk and should be avoided by nursing mothers.

SIDE EFFECTS: Increased heart rate can occur because of the drop in blood pressure. Other side effects include swelling of the feet (edema), dizziness, headaches, flushing, palpitations, and nausea.

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