Nicardipine

A healthcare provider may prescribe nicardipine to control high blood pressure and relieve chest pain. It comes in capsule form and is usually taken three times a day. There are several factors your healthcare provider will consider prior to prescribing this drug, such as the medical condition being treated, other medications you are taking, and other medical conditions you have.

Nicardipine Hydrochloride (HCL) Information

What Is Nicardipine?

Nicardipine hydrochloride (Cardene^®) is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of chest pain (angina) and high blood pressure (hypertension). A long-acting form is also available (see Cardene SR).

(Click What Is Nicardipine Used For? for more information, including possible off-label uses.)

Are There Side Effects?

As with any medicine, side effects can occur with nicardipine.

However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience problems. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. If side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.

Common side effects of nicardipine include but are not limited to:

Flushing
Headaches
Swelling or water retention in the lower legs or feet
Dizziness
Weakness.

(Click Side Effects of Nicardipine to learn more, including potentially serious side effects you should report to your healthcare provider.)

You can read about other possible side effects in the following eMedTV articles:

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