CARDENE (NICARDIPINE)

Cardene and a Lifestyle Change

High blood pressure? You probably had no idea that you have hypertension and are at risk for a heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease. This diagnosis is usually given during a routine doctor exam as there are no outward signs of what’s happening inside your body as the pressure inside your arteries increases and your heart has to work extra hard to pump blood to other tissues and organs.

Some people may be able to manage their blood pressure (BP) by changing their lifestyle to include losing weight, keeping active, eating healthier, and quit smoking. Others may need to add Cardene or generic Nicardipine to their daily regimen. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

Reduce the Workload on Your Heart to Lower Blood Pressure

Cardene is called a calcium channel blocker that works by blocking calcium from moving into the smooth muscles that surround your arteries. Calcium encourages these muscles to contract or tighten so the blood flow is forced through your arteries and can cause damage along the way. By slowing the progress of calcium’s progress into your heart and blood vessels, Cardene relaxes the muscles so blood vessels can dilate and carry the blood easily and your heart does not have to work so hard.

Other Conditions Cardene Treats

Besides lowering blood pressure, Cardene can also help with the pain of angina that can resemble the symptoms of a heart attack. Angina usually occurs during exercising, stress, smoking, consuming alcohol, or after a heavy meal. Rest will help, but this is a warning! Your body is telling you to slow down. If the pain you experience lasts longer than a few minutes or has not stopped while you are at rest, you should seek medical attention as this may mean a coronary artery is blocked or you are having a heart attack.

Before Cardene is Prescribed

Ask your doctor about any risks of taking Cardene if you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Explain other medical conditions and allergies you have to your doctor and list all OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including herbal, dietary or vitamin supplements that may interfere with how Cardene will work for you.

Recommendations for Safe Use of Cardene

Until you know how your body will react to Cardene, you should not drive, operate machinery, or attempt any activity that requires you to be alert. Do not start, stop, or change the dosage of any medications you take without talking to your doctor. Keep Cardene and other medications out of children’s reach and never share your drugs with anyone, even if they have the same symptoms.

Possible Side Effects of Cardene

• Dizziness
• Headache
• Swollen feet or ankles