Adalat CC
® (
nifedipine) is a prescription medication used to
treat high blood pressure (
hypertension). The tablets are extended release, which means they slowly release the medication evenly over time. A short-acting version (Adalat
®) was available in the past, but it is no longer manufactured.
Adalat CC is made by Bayer Pharmaceuticals.
Generic Adalat CC is made by a few different manufacturers and is sold under various names.
Adalat CC is part of a class of drugs called
calcium channel blockers. It helps to slow down the rate at which
calcium moves into your heart and into the walls of the blood vessels. This, in turn, helps to relax the blood vessels, which allows better blood flow and makes it easier for the heart to pump blood.
There are two basic types of calcium channel blockers, dihydropyridine and non-dihydropyridine. The most important difference between the two types is that non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers can slow down the heart rate, while dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers do not. Adalat CC is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, which means that it does not usually decrease the heart rate.
When and How to Take Adalat
Some general considerations for when and how to take the medication include:
- It comes in tablet form and is taken by mouth, usually once a day.
- It should be taken on an empty stomach.
- Because Adalat CC tablets are extended release, they should not be broken, crushed, or chewed. Be sure to swallow the tablets whole.
- It should be taken at the same time each day to maintain an even level of the drug in your blood.
- For the medicine to work properly, it must be taken as prescribed. It will not work if you stop taking it.
The dosage your healthcare provider recommends will vary depending on a number of factors, including:
- Other medical conditions you may have
- Other medications you may currently be taking.
As is the case with any medication, do not adjust your dose unless your healthcare provider specifically instructs you to do so.
As with any medicine, there are possible side effects. However, not everyone who takes the medication will experience side effects. In fact, most people tolerate it quite well. When side effects do occur, in most cases, they are minor and either require no treatment or can easily be treated by you or your healthcare provider. Serious side effects are less common.
Common side effects of this medication include, but are not limited to:
- Swelling or water retention in the hands, feet, or lower legs
- Headaches
- Flushing or hot flashes
- Dizziness.
(Click Adalat Side Effects to learn about specific side effects of this drug, including some of the more serious side effects that you should report to your healthcare provider. You can also read about other possible side effects by going to:
Drug Interactions With Adalat
Adalat CC can potentially interact with a number of medicines.
What Should I Tell My Healthcare Provider?
You should talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking this medication if you have:
Also, let your healthcare provider know if you are:
Make sure to tell your healthcare provider about all of the medicines you take, including prescription and non-prescription medicines, vitamins, and herbal supplements.
People who take too much of this medication may have overdose symptoms that could include:
- Low blood pressure (hypotension)
- Loss of consciousness
- An irregular heart rhythm (arrhythmia)
- Fluid in the lungs.
If you happen to overdose, seek immediate medical attention.
The medicine should be stored at room temperature, away from moisture and heat. Keep the tablets stored in an airtight container.
Keep Adalat CC and all medications out of the reach of children.
What Should I Do If I Miss a Dose of Adalat?
If you do not take your dose as scheduled, take your missed dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Adalat CC tablets are available in three strengths:
- Adalat CC 30 mg tablets
- Adalat CC 60 mg tablets
- Adalat CC 90 mg tablets.
Two Adalat CC 30 mg tablets can be substituted for one Adalat CC 60 mg tablet. However, three Adalat CC 30 mg tablets cannot be substituted for one Adalat CC 90 mg tablet. In studies, people who took three 30 mg tablets had higher blood levels of Adalat CC compared to people who took one 90 mg tablet.
Currently, there are both brand-name and generic versions of the drug licensed for sale.
