nifedipine
a drug used in the treatment of ANGINA and high BLOOD PRESSURE .
Nifedipine is used to treat high blood pressure and to control angina (chest pain). Nifedipine is in a class of medications called calcium-channel blockers. It lowers blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard. It controls chest pain by increasing the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart. High blood pressure is a common condition and when not treated, can cause damage to the brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys and other parts of the body. Damage to these organs may cause heart disease, a heart attack, heart failure, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision, and other problems. In addition to taking medication, making lifestyle changes will also help to control your blood pressure. These changes include eating a diet that is low in fat and salt, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising at least 30 minutes most days, not smoking, and using alcohol in moderation.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking nifedipine affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
Studies have not been done to see if nifedipine can make it harder for a woman to get pregnant. If you have questions about how nifedipine may relate to fertility in your situation, it is best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does taking nifedipine increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many reasons. The fact sheet notes that two studies reported a higher number of miscarriages in pregnancies exposed to calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine compared to unexposed pregnancies, but it is hard to know whether the medication, the underlying medical condition, or other factors contributed. This is something to talk over with your healthcare provider.
Does taking nifedipine increase the risk of birth defects?
The fact sheet states that it is not known whether nifedipine increases the chance of birth defects. Some studies have reported a small increase in risk with first-trimester exposure, while others have not found an increased risk. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh this information in the context of your own pregnancy.
Can taking nifedipine during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
Two studies cited in the fact sheet reported that preterm delivery and lower birth weight were more common among pregnant people treated with calcium channel blockers such as nifedipine, though the authors suggest these outcomes are likely related to the underlying illnesses being treated rather than the medication. Uncontrolled high blood pressure during pregnancy itself carries serious risks, including growth restriction, preterm delivery, placental abruption, and preeclampsia. Decisions about treatment are best made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking nifedipine during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
The fact sheet reports that two studies have looked at children exposed to nifedipine during pregnancy, and no concerns for behavior or learning problems were reported. As with any exposure, ongoing questions about your child's development can be discussed with their healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking nifedipine?
The fact sheet notes that nifedipine passes into breastmilk in small amounts, and no problems have been reported in nursing infants exposed through breastmilk. However, some people metabolize the medication differently, leading to higher amounts in milk, so if a nursing baby shows symptoms such as excessive sleepiness or poor feeding, the child's healthcare provider should be contacted. Be sure to discuss any breastfeeding questions with your healthcare provider.
Source: National Library of Medicine
nifedipine