Nifedil XL Tablets 30mg Tablets

Nifedipine is a calcium-channel blocker. It relaxes and widens the blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and helps more blood and oxygen reach the heart.

It is used for:

• high blood pressure (hypertension)
• angina (chest pain caused by heart disease)
• Raynaud's, where blood flow to the fingers and toes is reduced

Take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist tells you, at the same time(s) each day.

• Swallow slow-release (extended-release) tablets whole. Do not split, chew or crush them.
• Follow the label about food, as some slow-release brands are best taken on an empty stomach.
• With some brands you may see an empty tablet shell in your poo. This is normal.
• Keep taking it even if you feel well. Do not stop suddenly without talking to your doctor.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless the next dose is nearly due. Never take two doses together.

Common side effects include:

• headaches
• flushing (warmth and redness of the face or neck)
• swollen ankles
• constipation
• generally feeling unwell

Get medical help straight away if you have:

• chest pain that is new, worse or more frequent
• a fast heartbeat, fainting or shortness of breath
• yellow skin or eyes
• swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, a rash, or trouble breathing

Check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking it if you:

• have low blood pressure, heart failure, or angina that is unstable or getting worse
• have had a heart attack in the last 2 weeks
• have a narrowing in your gut or slow digestion
• have liver or kidney disease, or diabetes
• take other blood pressure medicines, beta-blockers, digoxin, carbamazepine, cimetidine, antifungals, some antibiotics or St John's wort

Keep in the original container, tightly closed, at room temperature away from light, heat and moisture, and out of reach of children.

Grapefruit: avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, as they can increase side effects.

Alcohol: best avoided, as it can lower your blood pressure further.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding: it can usually be taken, but tell your doctor if you are pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding. Do not stop it without advice.

Tell your surgeon or dentist you take nifedipine.