What is this medication for?
Nifedipine belongs to the class of medications called calcium channel blockers.
It may be used for the treatment of high blood pressure and angina
(chest pain brought on by exercise or stress). It works to control blood pressure
and reduce the number of angina attacks by relaxing blood vessels and reducing
the work of the heart.
Your doctor may have suggested this medication for conditions other than those
listed here. As well, some forms of this medication may not be used for all
of the conditions discussed here. If you have not discussed this with your doctor
or are not sure why you are taking this medication, speak to your doctor. Do
not give this medication to anyone else, even if they have the same symptoms
as you do. It can be harmful for people to take this medication if their
doctor has not prescribed it. Do not stop taking this medication without
consulting your doctor.
What form(s) does this medication come in?
Afeditab CR® is available as:
Some medications may have other generic brands available. Always ask your doctor or pharmacist about the safety of switching between brands of the same medication.
How should I use this medication?
The short-acting forms of nifedipine (e.g., immediate-release, PA) are taken
three or four times daily. The long-acting forms of nifedipine (e.g., XL, CC,
CR) are taken one daily with or without meals. Long-acting forms of nifedipine
should be swallowed whole without chewing or crushing. Nifedipine doses range
depending on the formula used and the condition being treated.
Store this medication at room temperature, protect it from light and moisture,
and keep it out of the reach of children.
Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as
body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor
has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change
the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor.
It is important to take this medication regularly, exactly as prescribed by
the doctor. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as possible and continue on
with your regular schedule. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the
missed dose and continue on with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take
a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Who should NOT take this medication?
This medication should not be used by anyone who:
- anyone allergic to nifedipine or to any of the ingredients of the medication
- anyone allergic to other medications of the same class (e.g., amlodipine,
felodipine)