Side Effects of Nicardipine: An Introduction
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects with
nicardipine hydrochloride (
Cardene®). However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. When 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.
(This article covers many, but not all, of the possible side effects with nicardipine. Your healthcare provider can discuss a more complete list of nicardipine side effects with you.)
Side Effects of Nicardipine to Report
There are a number of more serious side effects with nicardipine that you should report immediately to your healthcare provider.
These include, but are not limited to:
- Chest pain
- An irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
- Signs of very low blood pressure, such as dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when accompanied by fainting
- Severe swelling, water retention, or difficulty breathing
- Depression (see Cardene and Depression)
- Confusion
- Anxiety
- Signs of an allergic reaction, including an unexplained rash, hives, itching, unexplained swelling, wheezing, or difficulty breathing or swallowing.