PATIENT INFORMATION

Nifedipine, known as a calcium channel blocker, is used to treat high blood pressure and some forms of chest pain known as angina. This medication works by relaxing blood vessels and decreasing the pressure on the heart. This can lead to dizziness, headache, lightheadedness, flushing and swelling of the legs. You should report this to your physician because it can often be easily treated with a diuretic (water-pill). This medication is available in an extended-release form allowing for once a day dosing. Some brands must be taken on an empty stomach. Other brands are made in porous capsule which slowly releases the medication. You may notice the empty capsule in your stool. Extended release medications should not be crushed, cut or split because this destroys the slow release mechanism. If you are taking this for high blood pressure, you should have your blood pressure checked regularly to make sure the medication is working.