Nicardipine is a drug used as a medication for high blood pressure treatment. It functions by helping the body to increase blood vessel flow, which reduces strain on the heart by decreasing the effort required for the organ to pump blood throughout the body. The drug’s ability to increase blood flow also makes it an appropriate choice to treat other heart conditions, such as angina and congestive heart failure. Doctors prescribe the medication as a method of controlling and preventing symptoms, and is not a cure for high blood pressure or other heart problems.
There are several steps patients should take prior to using nicardipine. The medication should only be used under the direction of a doctor, and patients should inform their doctors of all other medications, both prescription and over-the-counter, that they currently take. A doctor also needs to be aware of the patient’s medical history to decide whether use of the drug is appropriate. People with certain conditions, such as kidney problems, liver problems, and heart or blood-related issues, may not be able to take the drug or may require a different dosage than otherwise healthy patients.
Patients must take other precautions when using nicardipine. It is important to not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice while taking this medication to avoid a potentially dangerous interaction. In addition to avoiding grapefruit, a doctor may give his or her patient special dietary or exercise instructions, and it is very important to carefully follow all of the physician’s directions. Women who are or plan to become pregnant should discuss the appropriateness of using the medication as well.
Only a medical professional can determine proper dosage of nicardipine. Patients who use the drug should not increase or decrease the amount of the medication taken without first discussing it with a doctor. Medical professionals also recommend that people who take the drug and begin to feel better continue taking it until a doctor gives them permission to stop.
There are a number of side effects associated with the use of nicardipine. The most common side effects include headache, fatigue, and nausea, but other mild conditions may occur as well. Serious side effects include fainting, rash, heartbeat irregularities, chest pain, and difficulty breathing. Allergic reactions sometimes occur and typically cause problems, such as swelling of facial features and other parts of the body. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if any severe reactions develop following use of nicardipine.
