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Cardene

Generic name: Nicardipine hydrochloride

Cardene, a type of medication called a calcium channel blocker, is prescribed for the treatment of chronic stable angina (chest pain usually caused by lack of oxygen to the heart resulting from clogged arteries, brought on by exertion) and for high blood pressure. Nicardipine Hydrochloride belongs to a group of medicines called calcium channel blockers, which act on the heart and blood vessels. Nicardipine slows the movement of calcium through cells, which has two results. Firstly, it decreases the rate at which the heart beats. As a result, the heart uses less energy and the pain of angina is prevented or relieved. Secondly, it has a widening effect on blood vessels and therefore reduces blood pressure.

Cardene Dosage

• Your doctor will adjust the dosage to suit your needs. The starting dose of Cardene is usually 20 milligrams 3 times a day. The regular dose ranges from 20 to 40 milligrams 3 times a day.

Uses of Cardene

• Cardene is a calcium channel blocker used to treat angina (chest pain) or high blood pressure.
• Cardene may also be used to treat other conditions as determined by your doctor.

Side Effects of Cardene

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Cardene. Side effects may include:

• Dizziness, flushing, headache, increased chest pain (angina), indigestion, nausea, pounding or rapid heartbeat, sleepiness, swelling of feet, weakness

Warnings and precautions before taking Cardene:

• Cardene can reduce or eliminate chest (angina) pain caused by exertion or exercise. Be sure to discuss with your doctor how much exercise or exertion is safe for you.
• If you experience increased chest pain when you start taking Cardene or when your dosage is increased, contact your doctor immediately.
• Your doctor will monitor your progress especially carefully if you have congestive heart failure, particularly if you are also taking a beta-blocking medication such as Tenormin or Inderal.
• Cardene can cause your blood pressure to become too low, making you feel light-headed or faint. Your doctor should check your blood pressure when you start taking Cardene and continue to monitor it while your dosage is being adjusted.
• If you have liver disease or decreased liver function, use this drug with caution.
• Cardene may cause severe heart damage, even months or years after you have stopped taking the drug.
• Cardene may also cause a decrease in the number of blood cells.

Drug Interaction :- If Cardene is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Cardene with the following:

• Amiodarone (Cordarone)
  
• Cimetidine (Tagamet)
  
• Cyclosporine (Sandimmune)
  
• Digoxin (Lanoxin)
  
• Phenytoin (Dilantin)
  
• Propranolol (Inderal)

Overdose

Symptoms of Cardene overdose may include:

• Confusion, drowsiness, severe low blood pressure, slow heartbeat, slurred speech
• If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.