Nicardipine (By Mouth)

Nicardipine (nye-KAR-de-peen)

Treats high blood pressure and chest pain (angina). This medicine is a calcium channel blocker.

Brand Name(s):

Cardene, Cardene SR
There may be other brand names for this medicine.

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

You should not use this medicine if you have ever had an allergic reaction to nicardipine or to similar medicines (such as verapamil, Adalat®, Calan®, Cardizem®, Lotrel®, Plendil®, Procardia®), or if you have a heart condition called aortic stenosis (narrowing of a valve in your heart).

How to Use This Medicine:

Capsule, Long Acting Capsule

• Your doctor will tell you how much of this medicine to take and how often. Do not take more medicine or take it more often than your doctor tells you to.
• Swallow the capsule whole. Do not chew, crush, or open it.
• It is best to take this medicine on an empty stomach.

If a dose is missed:

• If you miss a dose or forget to take your medicine, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then to take the medicine and skip the missed dose.
• Do not use extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.

How to Store and Dispose of This Medicine:

• Store the medicine at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children and never share your medicine with anyone.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• There are many other medicines that can interact with nicardipine. Make sure your doctor knows about ALL other medicines you are using. This includes over-the-counter medicines that can increase your blood pressure (such as diet pills, cold and allergy medicines, or asthma medicines).
• Do not drink alcohol while you are using this medicine.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have heart failure, stomach problems, liver disease, or kidney disease.
• This medicine may make you dizzy or lightheaded. Avoid driving, using machines, or doing anything else that could be dangerous if you are not alert.
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without asking your doctor. You may need to use less and less before stopping it completely.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Chest pain (may be related to your disease and not a side effect)
• Fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat
• Skin rash
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Wheezing or trouble breathing

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Flushing or feeling warm
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Stomach discomfort

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor.