Adalat (nifedipine) is a leading calcium channel blocker medication specifically formulated for the management of chronic stable angina and hypertension. As a trusted prescription therapy, it works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, allowing for smoother blood flow and reduced cardiac workload. This results in consistent blood pressure control and a significant decrease in angina episodes, supporting long-term cardiovascular health. Its proven efficacy and well-documented safety profile make it a cornerstone treatment in cardiology practice.

Features

• Active ingredient: nifedipine
• Formulation: extended-release tablets
• Available in 30mg, 60mg, and 90mg strengths
• Once-daily dosing for sustained 24-hour coverage
• Designed for gradual drug release to minimize peak-trough fluctuations

Benefits

• Effectively lowers high blood pressure, reducing long-term risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney damage
• Decreases frequency and severity of angina attacks, improving exercise tolerance and quality of life
• Provides smooth, around-the-clock antihypertensive and antianginal action with a single daily dose
• Well-tolerated in most patient populations with a predictable side effect profile
• Does not typically affect heart rate, making it suitable for patients with contraindications to beta-blockers
• Supported by decades of clinical use and extensive real-world evidence

Common use

Adalat is primarily indicated for the management of hypertension (high blood pressure) and chronic stable angina pectoris. In hypertension, it is used as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive agents to achieve blood pressure targets. For angina, it is employed to reduce the frequency of anginal episodes and decrease the need for sublingual nitroglycerin. It may also be used off-label in certain cases of Raynaud’s phenomenon and preterm labor under specialist supervision.

Dosage and direction

The recommended starting dose for hypertension or angina is 30mg or 60mg once daily, taken orally with a glass of water. Dosage may be adjusted based on therapeutic response and tolerability, typically at 7- to 14-day intervals. The maximum recommended dose is 90mg daily. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or divided. Adalat may be taken with or without food, though consistency in administration relative to meals is advised. Dosage adjustments are necessary in elderly patients and those with hepatic impairment.

Precautions

Patients should avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking Adalat, as it may increase drug levels and the risk of adverse effects. Blood pressure should be monitored regularly, especially during initial therapy and after dosage adjustments. Use with caution in patients with heart failure or severe aortic stenosis. Peripheral edema may occur and is usually dose-dependent. Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided. Patients should inform their healthcare provider if they are scheduled for surgery, including dental procedures.

Contraindications

Adalat is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to nifedipine or any component of the formulation. It must not be used in patients with cardiogenic shock, clinically significant aortic stenosis, or those who have experienced hypotension after taking nifedipine. Concurrent use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors such as ketoconazole, itraconazole, or ritonavir is contraindicated. The immediate-release formulation is contraindicated for hypertensive emergencies due to risk of severe hypotension.

Possible side effects

Common side effects (≥1%) include peripheral edema, headache, dizziness, flushing, and fatigue. Less frequently, patients may experience nausea, constipation, palpitations, or muscle cramps. Serious but rare adverse effects include hypotension, syncope, worsening angina, myocardial infarction, and gingival hyperplasia. Allergic reactions such as rash or pruritus may occur. Patients should report any persistent or severe side effects to their healthcare provider promptly.

Drug interaction

Adalat is metabolized primarily by CYP3A4, and interactions may occur with:

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., clarithromycin, ketoconazole): increased nifedipine levels
• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine): decreased nifedipine efficacy
• Beta-blockers: potential additive hypotensive effects
• Digoxin: may increase digoxin levels
• Quinidine: decreased quinidine levels
• Phenytoin: potential altered levels of both drugs
• Cimetidine: increased nifedipine exposure

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day. If it is nearly time for the next dose, skip the missed dose and resume the regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Consistent daily administration is important for optimal therapeutic effect.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe hypotension, bradycardia or tachycardia, palpitations, metabolic acidosis, hyperglycemia, and confusion. In cases of suspected overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Management is supportive and may include cardiovascular monitoring, vasopressors, IV calcium gluconate, and activated charcoal if ingestion was recent. Hemodialysis is not effective due to high protein binding.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in the original container, protected from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Properly discard any unused or expired medication through take-back programs or following FDA-recommended disposal methods.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Adalat is a prescription medication and should only be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to therapy may vary. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions regarding dosage, administration, and monitoring. Do not initiate, adjust, or discontinue medication without consulting your physician.

Reviews

Clinical studies and post-marketing surveillance demonstrate that Adalat is generally well-tolerated and effective for blood pressure and angina management. Many patients report improved quality of life and reduced cardiovascular symptoms. Some users note peripheral edema as a bothersome side effect, though it often diminishes with dosage adjustment. Healthcare providers appreciate its once-daily dosing and reliable pharmacokinetic profile. Long-term users frequently report sustained efficacy with minimal tolerance development.