Nitrendipine
About
Nitrendipine is an anti-hypertensive medicine used in the treatment of Hypertension. Hypertension is a serious condition in which there is a persistent rise in blood pressure. It also helps reduce the risk of heart attack, stroke, and angina (chest pain).
Nitrendipine contains Nitrendipine, which belongs to the class of calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing the blood vessels. This reduces the workload on the heart and makes the heart more efficient for pumping blood throughout the body.
Nitrendipine may cause common side effects such as headaches, fatigue, diarrhea, drowsiness, nausea, dizziness, decreased blood pressure, joint pain, and arthralgia that usually resolve after some time. Nitrendipine should be taken as prescribed by your doctor. Your doctor will decide the dose and duration of the medicine.
Nitrendipine should be avoided if you are allergic to it or other same-class medicines. Before starting the treatment, inform your doctor about your complete medical history and current medication history, including herbs and supplements. This can help reduce many adverse effects. It is unknown whether Nitrendipine can be given to pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers. Hence, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Uses of Nitrendipine
Medicinal Benefits
Nitrendipine contains Nitrendipine, which is used in the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension. It works by relaxing the blood vessels. This reduces the workload on the heart and makes the heart more efficient for pumping blood throughout the body. Thus, Nitrendipine can effectively reduce the blood pressure and the complications associated with this condition, such as heart attack.
Directions for Use
Storage
Side Effects of Nitrendipine
- Light-headedness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Lack of energy
- Peripheral edema (swelling of legs/hands)
- Flushing
- Rash
- Constipation
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Diarrhoea
- Hypotension (decreased blood pressure)
- Joint pain
In-Depth Precautions and Warning
Drug Warnings
Nitrendipine should be avoided if you are allergic to it or other same-class medicines. Tell your doctor about your complete medical history and current medication history, including herbs and supplements, to rule out any adverse effects. Nitrendipine should be used with caution if you have any history of liver disease, kidney disease, diabetes, and peripheral edema (swelling of hands/legs). This medicine is not recommended for use in children below 18 years of age as the safety and efficacy are not established. It is unknown whether Nitrendipine can be given to pregnant women or breastfeeding mothers. Hence, inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Frequent monitoring of blood pressure is important while taking Nitrendipine. Doing regular 15-minute exercise and a few lifestyle changes, such as low salt intake, avoiding cold beverages, smoking, etc., can give better results. Avoid driving and operating machines while on treatment with Nitrendipine as it may make you feel dizzy or drowsy.
Drug Interactions
Drug-drug interactions: Nitrendipine may interact with other blood pressure-lowering medications, anti-arrhythmic drugs (quinidine), antiepileptic medicine (phenytoin, carbamazepine, phenobarbital), antifungal medicine (ketoconazole, itraconazole), an antibiotic (erythromycin), antidiabetic medicine (insulin), etc.
Drug-food interactions: Avoid alcohol consumption and smoking during the treatment, as it may increase the risk of side effects.
Drug-disease interactions: Nitrendipine should be used with caution in patients with liver/kidney disease, heart failure, and diabetes.
Drug-Drug Interactions Checker List:
Safety Advice
Alcohol
unsafeAvoid alcohol consumption while on treatment with Nitrendipine, as it may worsen the condition by increasing the risk of side effects.
Pregnancy
cautionIt is unknown whether Nitrendipine is safe for pregnant women. Hence, if you are pregnant or planning pregnancy, inform your doctor before taking Nitrendipine. Your doctor may prescribe this medicine if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Breast Feeding
cautionIt is unknown whether Nitrendipine passes into breastmilk. Hence, if you are breastfeeding, inform your doctor before taking Nitrendipine. Your doctor may prescribe this medicine if the benefits outweigh the risks.
Driving
unsafeNitrendipine may cause dizziness and affect your ability to drive or operate heavy machinery. Hence, avoid driving after taking Nitrendipine or until you are alert.
Liver
cautionIf you have a pre-existing history of liver disease, inform your doctor before taking Nitrendipine. Your doctor may adjust the dose of this medicine or prescribe a suitable alternative based on your condition.
Kidney
cautionIf you have a pre-existing history of kidney disease, inform your doctor before taking Nitrendipine. Your doctor may adjust the dose of this medicine or prescribe a suitable alternative based on your condition.
Children
unsafeNitrendipine is not recommended for use in children below 18 years of age as the safety and efficacy of this medicine are not established for this age group.
Habit Forming
Diet & Lifestyle Advise
- Doing regular physical activity or exercise for at least 30 minutes most days of the week can help you lower your raised blood pressure.
- Opt for a diet rich in whole grains, fruits, veggies and low-fat dairy products.
- Reduce the intake of table salt in your daily diet to 2300 mg per day for better results.
- Quitting smoking and alcohol consumption is the best strategy to lower the risk of heart disease.
- Try to maintain your weight under control with a BMI of 19.5-24.9.
- Avoid chronic stress, as it can raise your blood pressure.
- Monitor your blood pressure daily, and if there is too much fluctuation, then immediately contact your doctor.
Special Advise
- Sudden withdrawal of Nitrendipine may worsen your health condition. However, if you experience chest pain, consult your doctor immediately.
- Keep track of your blood pressure by regularly checking it.
Patients Concern
Disease/Condition Glossary
Hypertension: Also called high blood pressure, is a serious condition in which the force exerted by the blood against the artery walls becomes high. This hardens the heart to pump blood. Raised blood pressure can cause chest pain (angina), heart attack (when the blood supply to the heart is blocked), stroke (brain damage) and kidney failure. The blood pressure can be diagnosed with the help of a blood pressure monitor called a sphygmomanometer.
FAQs
Nitrendipine contains Nitrendipine, which works by relaxing the blood vessels. This reduces the workload on the heart and makes the heart more efficient for pumping blood throughout the body.
You are recommended to take this medicine for the duration your doctor prescribes. High blood pressure is a life-long condition, and you should not abruptly discontinue the medicine without discussing it with your doctor.
Nitrendipine may affect your blood sugar levels. It is recommended to discuss with your doctor before taking Nitrendipine to know the possible risks of this medicine.