DRUG CLASS
Antihypertensive (calcium channel blocker)
DESCRIPTION
Blocks calcium channels in the blood vessels and heart, preventing contraction of blood vessels, and allowing them to widen and relax.
POTENTIAL SIDE EFFECTS
Peripheral swelling due to fluid retention (edema), flushing, headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, gingival hyperplasia (swelling of the gum tissue).
CAUTIONS
Dosage adjustments may be required if you have reduced kidney function.
Use with caution if you have congestive heart failure, specific heart problems, edema, or increased brain pressure with brain tumors, of if you use beta-blockers or digoxin.
Do not stop therapy suddenly.
Elderly are at increased risk for lowered blood pressure and constipation.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
Itraconazole, ketoconazole, fluconazole, erythromycin, cyclosporine, sildenafil, tadalafil, and vardenafil, rifampin
PREGNANCY AND BREAST-FEEDING CAUTIONS
FDA Pregnancy Risk Category C. It is not known if this drug is excreted in breast milk. Consult with your doctor prior to breast-feeding while taking this therapy.
