Nifedipine immediate-release capsules: how to take it safely
Adalat capsules
Reviewed by Pharm. Abeeb Junior
What it is for
Lowers dangerously high blood pressure in pregnancy, and can slow preterm labour.
How to take it
- Prescription medicine: take it exactly as your doctor or pharmacist told you.
- Swallow the capsule whole with water. Do not bite or crush it.
- It is given on the ward or as your doctor told you.
When to take it
Take it at the times your doctor told you, often every few hours in an emergency.
Take it with
With or without food.
What to avoid
- Grapefruit juice.
- Taking it with magnesium sulfate without your doctor's knowledge.
- Standing up quickly.
- Taking extra doses.
Possible side effects
Headache, flushing, dizziness, a fast heartbeat, swollen ankles.
Get help if
Severe headache, vision changes, severe stomach pain, fits, fainting or a very low blood pressure: get urgent help.
This is general information, not personal medical advice. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions and read the leaflet that comes with your medicine. Medicines and doses can differ between products and people.