NIFEdipine /nifed″ipēn/ , a calcium channel blocker. ▪ INDICATIONS: It is prescribed for the treatment of vasospastic and effort-associated angina, pulmonary hypertension, and hypertension (sustained-release form only). ▪ CONTRAINDICATIONS: Known hypersensitivity to this drug prohibits its use, and immediate-release forms should not be used to treat hypertension. The practice of using short-acting sublingual nifedipine in hypertensive emergencies or pseudoemergencies is dangerous and should be abandoned. ▪ ADVERSE EFFECTS: Among the more serious adverse effects are hypotension, peripheral edema, palpitations, dyspnea, nausea, dizziness, flushing, and headache. When given sublingually, stroke, severe hypotension, syncope, heart block, sinus arrest, myocardial infarctions, and fetal distress are among the adverse effects reported.
