Nicardipine Oral
In Depth
- Uses and How to Use
- Dosage and Storage
- Precautions and Side Effects
- Drug Interactions
- Drug Images
Pronounced: (nye-KAR-deh-peen)
Nicardipine Oral Uses
Nicardipine is used alone or in combination with other medications to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Nicardipine belongs to a class of medications called calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. Nicardipine is also used for certain types of chest pain (angina). It may help to increase your ability to exercise and decrease the frequency of angina attacks. This medication must be taken regularly to be effective. It should not be used to treat attacks of chest pain when they occur. Use other medications (e.g., sublingual nitroglycerin) to relieve attacks of chest pain as directed by your doctor. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for details.
How To Use Nicardipine Oral
Take this medication by mouth, usually three times daily or as directed by your doctor. You may take this medication with or without food, but it is important to choose one way and take this medication the same way with every dose.
The dosage is based on your medical condition, age and response to therapy. To lower your risk of side effects, your doctor may gradually increase your dose. Follow your doctor's instructions carefully.
Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while being treated with this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Grapefruit juice can increase the amount of certain medications in your bloodstream. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details.
Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. To help you remember, take it at the same times each day. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick.
Do not suddenly stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Your condition may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased. Inform your doctor if your condition persists or worsens (e.g., your routine blood pressure readings increase).
