Adalat XL

Uses of Adalat XL

ADALAT XL (nifedipine extended-release tablets) is indicated in the management of chronic stable angina (effort-associated angina) without evidence of vasospasm in patients who remain symptomatic despite adequate doses of beta blockers and/or nitrates, or who cannot tolerate these agents.
ADALAT XL may be used in combination with beta blocking drugs in patients with chronic stable angina. However, available information is not sufficient to predict with confidence the effects of concurrent treatment, especially in patients with compromised left ventricular function or cardiac conduction abnormalities. When introducing such concomitant therapy, care must be taken to monitor blood pressure closely, since severe hypotension can occur from the combined effects of the drugs.
Hypertension ADALAT XL is indicated in the management of mild to moderate essential hypertension. Combination of ADALAT XL with a diuretic has been found compatible and has shown added antihypertensive effect. Concurrent administration of low doses of ADALAT XL and enalapril has been shown to produce an enhanced antihypertensive effect with no additional safety concerns when compared to that observed with either of the monotherapies. Safety of concurrent use of ADALAT XL with other antihypertensive agents has not been established.

Precautions and Warnings

Do not take nifedipine if you:

• are allergic to nifedipine or any ingredients of the medication
• are allergic to other drugs that are similar to nifedipine (dihydropyridine calcium antagonists) (e.g., amlodipine, felodipine)
• are breast-feeding
• are or may become pregnant
• have very low blood pressure or are in shock
• are in the period immediately following a heart attack (applies to the immediate-release form of nifedipine)
• have a Kock pouch (ileostomy after a proctocolectomy)
• are taking the medication rifampicin
• have a severe blockage in the digestive system
• have moderate to severe liver disease

Before you begin using a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should use this medication.

Diabetes: For people with diabetes, nifedipine may affect their control of blood sugar levels. If you have diabetes, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed. It may be necessary to check your blood sugar regularly until you know how this medication affects your blood sugar control.

Fertility: This medication may affect male fertility. Talk to your doctor if this is important to you.

Grapefruit juice: Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of nifedipine. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit before or while you are taking nifedipine.

Heart attack: Immediate-release nifedipine should not be used within one week after a heart attack.

Heart failure: Rarely, nifedipine causes severely decreased blood pressure, making symptoms of heart failure worse for people with severe heart failure. If you have heart failure, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Liver function: Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause this medication to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have liver problems, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed. Your doctor may want to test your liver function regularly with blood tests while you are taking this medication.

If you experience symptoms of liver problems such as fatigue, feeling unwell, loss of appetite, nausea, yellowing of the skin or whites of the eyes, dark urine, pale stools, abdominal pain or swelling, and itchy skin, contact your doctor immediately.

Low blood pressure: People prone to low blood pressure should monitor their blood pressure frequently while they are taking nifedipine. Blood pressure may occasionally drop more than expected when starting nifedipine. Be alert for any lightheadedness, dizziness, or a faster than normal heart rate. Move slowly when changing from a lying down to an upright position. If your blood pressure drops too low, your doctor will adjust your dose or try another medication.

Stomach disorders: People with certain stomach disorders (e.g., narrowing of the gastrointestinal tract) should talk with their doctor about the risks and benefits of taking this medication. If you have any stomach disorders, such as a narrowing of the gastrointestinal tract, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of this medication, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Surgery: If you are scheduled for surgery, inform your doctor that you are taking this medication.

Pregnancy: This medication should not be taken by women who are or may become pregnant, as nifedipine may cause harm to the developing baby if it is taken by the mother during pregnancy. If you become pregnant while taking this medication, contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: This medication passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking nifedipine, it may affect your baby. Women who are taking nifedipine are discouraged from breast-feeding. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of using this medication have not been established for children.

Seniors: Seniors may be more sensitive to the side effects of nifedipine.

Dosage

This medication is typically used only once a day. However, your doctor or pharmacist may have suggested a different schedule that is more appropriate for you.

It must be used regularly and continuously to maintain its beneficial effects. Be sure to keep an adequate supply on hand. This medication should be swallowed whole. It should not be split, crushed or chewed.

Side Effects:

Common side effects:

• it may cause dizziness — use caution when getting up from a lying or sitting position;
• it may cause redness of the face;
• it could cause water retention and swelling;
• it may cause headaches;
• it may cause nausea or, rarely, vomiting.