Primary Characteristics
It is of Synthetic origin and belongs to Pyridine.
It belongs to Calcium L-channel antagonist pharmacological group on the basis of mechanism of action.
Molecular Weight: 346.3 · Solubility in Water: practically Insoluble · Solubility in Alcohol: sparingly soluble · Non-proprietary name: Nifedipine.
Pharmacokinetics
Absorption: Nifedipine has an oral bioavailability is 50% (±13%).
Distribution: Nifedipine has a volume of distribution is 0.75 l/kg. plasma protein binding is > 90 %.
Elimination: it is metabolised via Hepatic, plasma half-life is 4 hr, renal excretion is 80 %.
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Indications
Nifedipine is primarily indicated in conditions like Angina, Angina prophylaxis, Heart failure, Hiccup due to gastric distension in palliative care, Hypertension, Ischaemic heart disease, Pulmonary hypertension, Raynaud's phenomenon, Sedation with amnesia, Sedative in combined anaesthesia.
Contraindications
Nifedipine is contraindicated in conditions like Diabetes mellitus, Cardiac insufficiency, Hypotension.
Dosage
Nifedipine's dosage details are as follows:
| Dose | Single Dose | Frequency | Route | Instructions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adult Dosage | ||||
| 25 mg | 25 mg | Every 12h | PO | |
| Paediatric Dosage (20kg) | ||||
| 0.187 mg/kg | 0.187 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | - |
| Neonatal Dosage (3kg) | ||||
| 0.187 mg/kg | 0.187 mg/kg | Every 8h | Oral | - |
Drug Interactions
Always consult your physician for the change of dose regimen or an alternative drug of choice that may strictly be required.
Side Effects
Nifedipine in overdosage may give rise to further complications which include Flushing , Dizziness , Exacerbated angina.
Nifedipine produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Cardiovascular collapse. Careful monitoring is needed with proper medical management.
The signs and symptoms that are produced after acute overdosage of Nifedipine are Bradycardia, Hypotension, Unconsciousness.
Nifedipine is known to cause more or less tolerable side effects which are usually transient. These include Ankle swelling, GI upset, Headache, Palpitation, Paresthesias, Reversible Gingival HyperplasiaX.
Warnings / Precautions
Interference in Pathology
Nifedipine may interfere in the diagnosis of Urinary Catecholamines Metabolite Assay .
Available Brands
Storage Conditions
Drug Classification
- 1.12.3.2 — Calcium antagonists