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Nifedipine/Procardia



- See: Class IV Agents:

- Discussion:
      - for vasospastic or chronic stable Angina; Hypertensive crisis;
      - inhibits coronary artery spasm;
     - given Sublinngual for HTN crisis;
       - combine with Nitrates for intractable Angina;
       - HA are common initially; note reflex Tachycardia;
       - direct & indirect arterial vasodilator (greater than diltiazem)
       -  minimal cardiodepressant action;
       - may be safely used w/ Beta antagonists and note that use with Beta blockers may reduce palpitations, flushing, and HA;
       - dose not affect Digoxin levels;
- Adult Dosing:
       - begin at 5-10 mg PO q8hr;
       - usual dose: 10-40 mg PO tid;
       - maximum: 180mg/day;
       - increase from 10 mg to 30 mg over a 3 day period;
       - Procardia XL:
              - for HTN or Angina: 30-60 mg PO qd;
              - max dose = 90 mg;
- Contraindications:
      -  w/ Aortic Stenosis, Obstructive cardiomyopathy, or severe myocardial depression/hypotension