Cardene SR (Nicardipine)
Cardene SR (Nicardipine)
Cardene SR (Nicardipine) is a prescription medication that belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing the blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow, and helping to lower blood pressure. Cardene SR is typically prescribed for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and certain types of angina (chest pain).
Why Choose Cardene SR (Nicardipine)?
- Helps in effectively managing high blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels.
- Reduces the risk of heart-related complications such as stroke and heart attack.
- Provides extended blood pressure control with a sustained-release formulation.
- Supports better heart function by improving the oxygen supply to the heart.
- Can aid in relieving certain types of chest pain caused by angina.
How to Use Cardene SR (Nicardipine)?
- Take as Prescribed: Always follow your doctor’s dosing instructions carefully. Typically, Cardene SR is taken orally twice a day with or without food.
- Swallow Whole: Do not crush or chew the capsules, as this may release all the medication at once, increasing the risk of side effects.
- Maintain a Routine: Take Cardene SR at the same time each day to help maintain consistent blood levels.
- Monitor Blood Pressure: Regularly check your blood pressure to track how well the medication is working.
- Lifestyle Adjustments: Complement the treatment by following a low-sodium diet, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol intake.
- Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it’s close to the next dose. Never double up to make up for a missed dose.
Important Safety Information about Cardene SR
- Do not take Cardene SR if you are allergic to nicardipine or any other ingredients in the medication.
- Inform your healthcare provider if you have any liver, kidney, or heart problems, as dose adjustments may be necessary.
- Cardene SR may cause dizziness, especially when standing up suddenly. To reduce this risk, rise slowly from sitting or lying down positions.
- Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how this medication affects you.
- Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking this medication, as it may increase the drug’s effects and risk of side effects.
Fact Table
| Facts | Details |
| Generic Name | Nicardipine |
| Brand Name | Cardene SR |
| Drug Class | Calcium Channel Blocker (Dihydropyridine) |
| Dosage Form | Extended-Release Capsules |
| Indications | – Management of hypertension (high blood pressure) – Relief of chronic stable angina (chest pain due to heart disease) |
| Mechanism of Action | Cardene SR works by inhibiting calcium ions from entering smooth muscle cells in the heart and blood vessels, leading to vasodilation (widening of blood vessels) and lowering of blood pressure. |
| Usual Adult Dosage | 30 mg to 60 mg twice daily as prescribed by a healthcare provider |
| How to Take | – Take Cardene SR orally, twice daily with or without food. – Swallow the capsule whole—do not crush or chew. |
| Key Benefits | – Helps lower blood pressure, reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack – Reduces the frequency and severity of angina episodes – Provides long-acting control of hypertension due to its extended-release formulation |
| Onset of Action | 1 to 2 hours after oral administration |
| Duration of Action | Approximately 12 hours (hence twice-daily dosing) |
| Important Safety Information | – Do not abruptly discontinue use, as this may worsen angina or hypertension. – Use with caution in patients with heart failure, liver impairment, or kidney disease. – Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it may increase the levels of nicardipine in the blood. – Not recommended during pregnancy unless clearly necessary. Consult a doctor before use. |
| Common Side Effects | – Headache – Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingling of the skin) – Dizziness or lightheadedness – Swelling in the feet or ankles (edema) – Fatigue |
| Drug Interactions | – Beta-blockers: May increase the risk of hypotension. – Cimetidine: May increase nicardipine levels, leading to toxicity. – Cyclosporine or tacrolimus: Nicardipine may increase their levels in the blood. – Grapefruit juice: Avoid as it can increase drug concentration and side effects. |
| Overdose Symptoms | Severe dizziness, fainting, confusion, extremely low blood pressure, and fast heart rate |
| Storage Instructions | Store at room temperature (20°C to 25°C / 68°F to 77°F) in a tightly closed container. |
| Availability | Prescription-only |
Common Side Effects
Like all medications, Cardene SR (Nicardipine) can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. Understanding these side effects can help you use this medication safely and effectively.
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Flushing (warmth or redness in the face)
- Headache
- Nausea
- Fatigue
- Swelling in the ankles or feet
If you experience any side effects, discuss them with your healthcare provider. They can offer advice and may adjust your treatment if necessary. Report any severe or unexpected side effects immediately.
How Can You Buy Cardene SR (Nicardipine)?
You can order Cardene SR (Nicardipine) using these methods on our website:
- Order Online
- Order by Phone
- Order by Fax
- Order your refills
Visit our How to order page.
