Nifedipine Tips from Pharmacists

• Take the extended-release tablets on an empty stomach at least 1 hour before or 2 hours after a meal. Make sure you swallow the extended-release tablets whole without cutting, chewing, or biting them.

• It’s normal for the outer shell of the extended-release tablet to be excreted with stool.

• Nifedipine can cause swelling in your legs, especially at higher doses. This is not usually something to worry about, but leg swelling can also be a sign of heart failure. Tell your doctor if the swelling is bothersome. Make sure you follow up with your healthcare provider so that they can keep an eye on it.

• Nifedipine can cause dizziness and low blood pressure. Stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position to lower your risk of falls.

• Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while on nifedipine. This can make the plasma drug concentrations rise and cause more severe side effects.