Indications  

Cardene is a prescription medication utilized for the treatment of high blood pressure  

(hypertension) and the management of chest pain (angina). 

As a calcium channel blocker, Cardene reduces blood pressure by vasodilation, relieving the heart from excessive pumping. Furthermore, it manages chest pain by enhancing the delivery of blood and oxygen to the heart. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Cardene and with each prescription refill, thoroughly review its medication guide and patient information leaflet. Consult your physician or pharmacist for any questions or concerns. 

Cardene dosage is individualized and adjusted according to the patient’s medical condition and treatment response. Strict adherence to the doctor’s instructions is crucial, including potential gradual increases in dosage. 

Typically, Cardene is taken three times daily, as instructed by the doctor, regardless of food intake. Take it regularly around the same time(s) daily to achieve optimal results. 

Continue taking this medication as prescribed, even if you feel well, as many individuals with high blood pressure may not experience noticeable symptoms. 

Inform your doctor if your condition persists or deteriorates, such as if your routine blood pressure readings remain elevated or increase or if your chest pain becomes more frequent or severe. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the side effects associated with the use of Cardene. Notify your doctor if you experience any persistent or worsened side effects. 

Common Side Effects 

• Headache 
• Dizziness 
• Feet swelling 
• Weakness 
• Flushing (warmth, redness, or a tingly sensation) 
• Nausea 

Serious Side Effects 

• Feeling light-headed, as if you might faint 
• Heartbeats pounding or fluttering in your chest 
• Severe or persistent chest pain 

Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the above-mentioned severe symptoms. 

Allergic Reactions 

Severe allergic reactions to Cardene are uncommon; however, seek immediate medical attention if you experience symptoms such as: 

• Rash 
• Facial, tongue, or throat itching or swelling 
• Severe dizziness 
• Trouble breathing 

This list does not contain all the potential side effects of Cardene. If you experience any other effects not mentioned above, notify your doctor promptly. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Cardene, inform your doctor and pharmacist if you have any known hypersensitivities, especially to nicardipine, other medicines, or any ingredients present in Cardene tablets. 

Before taking Cardene, consult your doctor if you have a specific structural heart condition known as aortic stenosis. This medication should not be used in such cases. 

To ensure Cardene is safe for you, disclose to your physician your medical background, specifically regarding any history of kidney or liver disease. 

Tell your doctor and pharmacist about all the medications you are taking, including prescription and over-the-counter drugs, dietary supplements, and herbal products, to minimize the possibility of drug interactions that could impact the efficacy of Cardene or increase the likelihood of adverse effects. 

The removal of Cardene from the body can be influenced by other medications, potentially impacting its effectiveness. Examples of such medications include: 

• Cimetidine 
• Azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole) 
• Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin) 
• Rifamycins (e.g., rifabutin) 
• St. John’s wort 
• Drugs used for seizures (e.g., phenytoin), and others 

Inform your pharmacist if you are currently using cough-and-cold products, diet aids, or NSAIDs (such as ibuprofen/naproxen), as some of these may contain ingredients that can increase your blood pressure or heart rate. Ask your pharmacist how to use them safely. 

Cardene may cause dizziness, and the use of alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can intensify this effect. Avoid activities that require alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, until you can safely do so. Limiting alcoholic beverages is advised. If you are using marijuana (cannabis), discuss this with your doctor. 

Avoid or restrict the intake of grapefruit and grapefruit juice while undergoing Cardene treatment, for it can elevate blood levels and impact the effectiveness of this medication. 

Consult your doctor before using potassium-containing salt substitutes. If prescribed a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow the instructions carefully. 

The use of Cardene during pregnancy should be considered only if the potential benefits outweigh the potential risks to the fetus. 

The transfer of nicardipine into breast milk is uncertain. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding when taking this medication.