Procardia XL

Procardia XL is a medication that is licensed for the treatment of high blood pressure and certain types of chest pain (angina). The prescription medication, which is a type of calcium channel blocker, works by relaxing the blood vessels to make it easier for the heart to pump blood. Procardia XL is an extended-release medication that is usually taken once a day. Potential side effects may include headaches, nausea, and fatigue.

 

What Is Procardia XL?

Procardia XL® (nifedipine) is a prescription medication used to treat certain types of chest pain (angina) and high blood pressure (hypertension). Procardia XL tablets are extended release, which means they slowly release the medication evenly over time.
 
(Click Procardia XL Uses for more information on what Procardia XL is used for, including possible off-label uses.)
 

Who Makes Procardia XL?

Procardia XL is made by Pfizer, Inc. Generic Procardia XL is made by a few different manufacturers and is sold under various names.
 

How Does Procardia XL Work?

Procardia XL is part of a class of drugs called
 calcium channel blockers. Procardia XL helps to slow down the rate at which calcium moves into the heart and into the walls of the blood vessels. This, in turn, helps to relax the blood vessels, which allows better blood flow and makes it easier for the heart to pump blood.
 
There are two basic types of calcium channel blockers, dihydropyridine and non-dihydropyridine. The most important difference between the two types is that non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers can slow down the heart rate, while dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers do not. Procardia XL is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, which means that it does not usually decrease the heart rate.
 
While regular (immediate-release) Procardia often increases the heart rate, Procardia XL usually has no effect on the heart rate.
 
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Written by/reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD; Arthur Schoenstadt, MD
Last reviewed by: Kristi Monson, PharmD;