Nifedipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker indicated for the management of several subtypes of angina pectoris, and hypertension. It can be found under the brand names Adalat, Afeditab CR, Nifediac, Nifedical, and Procardia. Nifedipine, or BAY a 1040, is a first generation dihydropyridine L-type calcium channel blocker, similar to nicardipine. Nifedipine was developed by Bayer and first described in the literature, along with other dihydropyridines, in 1972. Since nifedipine's development, second and third generation dihydropyridines have been developed with slower onsets and longer durations of action. Nifedipine blocks voltage gated L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle and myocardial cells. This blockage prevents the entry of calcium ions into cells during depolarization, reducing peripheral arterial vascular resistance and dilating coronary arteries. The alpha-1C, alpha-1D, and beta-2 subunits are targeted. Nifedipine can be administered via oral capsules or tablets. These actions reduce blood pressure and increase the supply of oxygen to the heart, alleviating angina. Some side effects of using nifedipine may include headaches, dizziness, flushing, and palpitations.

Nifedipine Pathway (New) References