What is Nifedipine ER? Uses, warnings & side effects

Follow all the prescriber’s instructions.

Take only one dose every day.

Take nifedipine ER tablets on an empty stomach if possible.

• If the tablets cause digestive system problems, try taking doses with food.

Swallow the tablet whole with a drink of water. Do not break, crush, or chew the tablet.

You may notice part of the tablet in your stools. This is normal and no cause for worry.

Read the storage instructions on the package or package insert.

• Nifedipine ER tablets should be stored at room temperature.

• Some nifedipine ER tablets need to be protected from light and moisture.

• Nifedipine ER osmotic release tablets need to be protected from moisture and humidity.

If a dose is missed, take it when remembered.

Skip the missed dose if it’s almost time to take the next dose.

Take the next dose as scheduled.

Do not double up doses to compensate for a missed dose.

This medicine is not right for everyone.

Do not take nifedipine ER if you have had an allergic reaction to nifedipine.

Tell any doctor or healthcare provider who treats you that you are using this medicine. Doses may need to be stopped several days before certain types of medical tests or surgery. 

The prescriber will require regular checkups and blood tests to monitor the effects of this drug. Keep all appointments.

Before taking nifedipine, tell the prescribing clinician if you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have:

• Coronary artery disease

• Recent heart attack

• Stomach or intestinal blockage

• Stomach or intestinal ulcers

This medicine may cause serious problems including: 

• Worsening of angina

• Increased risk of heart attack

• Heart failure

• Stomach or bowel ulcers

• Worsening of bowel blockage

• Low blood pressure

• Fluid buildup in the extremities (peripheral edema)

This medicine can cause blood pressure to get too low. This is more likely to happen at the beginning of therapy or if you become dehydrated. 

Do not stop taking nifedipine ER until talking with the prescriber.

Tell the prescriber about all the prescription and over-the-counter drugs you take, particularly:

• Other calcium channel blockers

• Beta blockers

  • Other blood pressure medications

Drugs that widen blood vessels called nitrates

• Coumarin blood thinners such as warfarin

• Antiviral drugs called protease inhibitors

• Barbiturates

• Carbamazepine, cimetidine, clarithromycin, digoxin, erythromycin, fentanyl, fluconazole, fluoxetine, indinavir, itraconazole, nefazodone, nelfinavir, Paxlovid, phenytoin, quinidine, ranitidine, rifabutin, rifampin, saquinavir, St. John’s wort

Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice when taking nifedipine.