Procardia XL

(Nifedipine)

The active ingredient in Adalat XL is nifedipine.

Nifedipine belongs to a group of medicines called dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which helps lower blood pressure and improve blood flow to the heart. By reducing the workload on the heart and improving oxygen delivery, Adalat XL helps reduce angina and control hypertension.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Adalat XL. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Adalat XL:

Take Adalat XL exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider.

Swallow extended-release tablets whole with water. Do not chew, crush, or break the tablets, as this can affect how the medicine is released.

Adalat XL is usually taken once daily, at about the same time each day.

It may be taken with or without food, but try to take it the same way each day.

Avoid grapefruit juice while taking Adalat XL, as it can increase nifedipine levels and raise the risk of side effects.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is close to your next dose. If it is close to your next dose, skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the usual time. Do not take two doses at once.

Some mild or common side effects of Adalat XL include:

Swelling of the feet, ankles, or lower legs (edema).

Headache.

Flushing or warmth of the face.

Dizziness or lightheadedness.

Heartburn or upset stomach.

Palpitations.

Leg cramps.

Dry mouth.

Back pain.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Adalat XL. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

Very low blood pressure (hypotension), including fainting or severe dizziness.

Worsening chest pain or new chest pain, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose.

Shortness of breath or signs of heart failure, such as swelling, sudden weight gain, or fatigue.

Irregular heartbeat or fast heart rate.

Signs of a heart attack (Myocardial infarction) include chest pain spreading to the arm or jaw, sweating, or nausea.

Severe allergic reaction, including hives, swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, or trouble breathing.

These are not all of the possible side effects of nifedipine. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Adalat XL, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including:

Heart failure or congestive heart failure.

A history of heart attack or other serious heart disease.

Pre-existing severe gastrointestinal narrowing.

Low blood pressure or frequent episodes of dizziness.

Liver disease, as dose adjustments may be needed.

Kidney disease.

Aortic stenosis or other conditions affecting blood flow from the heart.

Adalat XL should not be used in patients with a history of allergic reaction to nifedipine, amlodipine, or other calcium channel blockers. It is also contraindicated in certain severe heart conditions, such as cardiogenic shock, where lowering blood pressure could be dangerous. It is also not recommended in pregnancy or lactation, for patients with a Kock pouch (ileostomy after proctocolectomy), with moderate or severe hepatic impairment, or severe gastrointestinal (GI) obstructive disorders.

Adalat XL begins to lower blood pressure within a few hours of the first dose. Because it is an extended-release formulation, full effects may take several days of regular use. Angina symptom improvement may also occur gradually over time.

When Adalat XL is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

Grapefruit juice can increase nifedipine levels by affecting drug metabolism, which may increase the risk of low blood pressure and other side effects.

Cimetidine may increase nifedipine levels, potentially increasing effects such as hypotension or dizziness.

Itraconazole, erythromycin, and fluconazole may increase nifedipine concentrations by inhibiting drug metabolism, increasing the risk of side effects.

Phenytoin may reduce nifedipine levels, which could lower its effectiveness.

Beta blockers used together with nifedipine may increase the risk of low blood pressure or heart failure symptoms in some patients, requiring close monitoring.

St. John’s wort may reduce nifedipine levels and decrease its effectiveness.

Adalat XL is available as extended-release tablets in different strengths. Your healthcare provider will choose the appropriate dose based on your condition, response to treatment, and blood pressure goals.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Adalat XL is manufactured by Bayer.

Yes, it is available from many manufacturers of generic drugs.

Do not stop taking Adalat XL without talking to your healthcare provider. Stopping suddenly may worsen high blood pressure or angina. Your provider may gradually adjust your dose or switch you to another medicine if needed.

Adalat XL is contraindicated in pregnancy.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

Adalat XL is contraindicated if you are breastfeeding.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.