Cardene is a brand name for Nicardipine, a medication used primarily to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and certain types of angina (chest pain). Nicardipine is a calcium channel blocker that helps relax and widen blood vessels, which in turn lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart's workload.
Product Highlights
- Used to manage hypertension and prevent angina attacks.
- Nicardipine works by inhibiting calcium ions from entering cardiac and smooth muscle cells through calcium channels. This relaxation of the smooth muscle in blood vessels leads to vasodilation (widening of the blood vessels), which reduces blood pressure and improves blood flow.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Effective in reducing elevated blood pressure in hypertensive patients.
- Helps in reducing the frequency and severity of angina attacks by improving blood flow to the heart.
- The injectable form is used for acute management of blood pressure, while the oral form provides extended control for chronic conditions.
Direction of Use
- The dosage varies based on the condition being treated. For hypertension, the typical starting dose is 30 mg to 60 mg taken orally, usually every 8 hours. For angina, doses may be adjusted according to individual response.
- Oral tablets should be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. The injectable form is administered by healthcare professionals in a clinical setting for acute conditions.
- Regular monitoring of blood pressure and heart rate is important to adjust the dose and ensure effective management.
Safety Concerns
- May include headache, dizziness, flushing, palpitations, and gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea or constipation.
- Can include severe hypotension (low blood pressure), worsening of heart failure, or significant allergic reactions. Monitoring for signs of these serious side effects is necessary.
- Nicardipine can interact with other medications, especially those that affect blood pressure or heart function. Inform your healthcare provider of all medications being taken.
Avoid Cardene (Nicardipine) If
- You have a known allergy or hypersensitivity to Nicardipine or other calcium channel blockers.
- Use with caution if you have severe heart failure or other significant cardiac conditions, as Nicardipine can affect cardiac function.
- Caution is advised if you have severe liver impairment, as Nicardipine is metabolized by the liver.
- Consult with a healthcare provider regarding use during pregnancy, as it should only be used if the benefits outweigh the risks.
