What is nisoldipine, and how does it work (mechanism of action)?
Nisoldipine is an oral calcium channel blocker (CCB) of the dihydropyridine (DHP) class that is used to treat high blood pressure. Other calcium channel blockers in the DHP class include nifedipine (Procardia, Adalat), amlodipine (Norvasc), felodipine (Plendil), nicardipine (Cardene), and isradipine (Dynacirc). Calcium channel blockers prevent calcium from entering certain types of muscle cells. Since the muscle cells need calcium to contract, CCBs prevent the cells from contracting, that is, they cause the muscle cells to relax. Nisoldipine selectively relaxes the muscles of small arteries causing the arteries to dilate but has little or no effect on muscles of veins or the heart. Dilation of arteries reduces blood pressure. Nisoldipine was approved by the FDA in February of 1995.
What brand names are available for nisoldipine?
Sular
Is nisoldipine available as a generic drug?
GENERIC AVAILABLE: Yes
Do I need a prescription for nisoldipine?
Yes
What are the uses for nisoldipine?
Nisoldipine is used for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension).
What are the side effects of nisoldipine?
The most common side effects of nisoldipine are:
- Peripheral edema (swollen ankles and feet),
- headache,
- dizziness,
- nausea,
- palpitations,
- Hypersensitivity reactions,
- worsening of chest pain,
- low blood pressure, and
- heart attacks
What is the dosage for nisoldipine?
The recommended dose is 17 to 34 mg or 20 to 40 mg daily depending on the formulation that is used. Doses may be increased at one week intervals. Tablets should be swallowed whole and taken on an empty stomach. Individuals with poor liver function require lower doses of nisoldipine.
QUESTION
Salt and sodium are the same.
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Which drugs or supplements interact with nisoldipine?
Cimetidine (Tagamet) or any drug that reduces the activity of liver enzymes that break down nisoldipine can increase blood levels of nisoldipine, possibly causing more side effects. Examples of drugs that may reduce break down of nisoldipine include ketoconazole, itraconazole (Sporanox), and erythromycin.
Is nisoldipine safe to take if I’m pregnant or breastfeeding?
The effects of nisoldipine in pregnancy are unknown.
It is unknown if nisoldipine appears in breast milk.
What else should I know about nisoldipine?
What preparations of nisoldipine are available?
Tablets (Extended Release): 8.5, 17, 20, 25.5, 30, 34, and 40 mg.
How should I keep nisoldipine stored?
Tablets should be stored below 30 C (86 F) and should be protected from light and moisture.