Calcium channel blocker (blood pressure medicine)
Last reviewed June 2026
Who is this for?
Nifedipine is a blood pressure medicine that works by relaxing and widening your blood vessels, making it easier for your heart to pump blood around your body.
Blocks L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle and cardiac tissue, preventing calcium influx and causing vasodilation, which reduces peripheral vascular resistance and myocardial oxygen demand.
Prescription Required
You need a doctor's prescription to buy this drug.
Explore this drug
For regular tablets, the usual dose is 10-20 mg taken 3 times daily. For extended-release or sustained-release tablets like Adalat LA, Zymfecard XL, or M & B Nifedipine Retard, it is usually 30-60 mg once daily. Swallow the long-acting tablets whole — do not crush, chew, or break them. You can take nifedipine with or without food, but taking it with a light meal may reduce stomach upset.
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. But if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue your normal schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for it.
Always buy from a licensed pharmacy — brands like Adalat LA, Nifecure, Zymfecard XL, or M & B Nifedipine are available in reputable pharmacies across Nigeria; avoid roadside sellers as fake drugs are common. Do not stop taking nifedipine suddenly without your doctor's advice, as your blood pressure could spike dangerously. Do not share your prescription with someone else who has 'similar symptoms' — the dose must be prescribed individually.
Avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking nifedipine as it can dangerously increase the drug level in your blood. Alcohol can make your blood pressure drop too low, causing dizziness or fainting. If you are taking other blood pressure medicines like amlodipine, atenolol, or lisinopril, your doctor needs to monitor you closely to avoid your BP going too low.
Check your specific combination
Is it safe to take Nifedipine with your other drugs?
Nifedipine is sometimes used in pregnancy under strict doctor supervision (e.g., to manage high BP or preterm labour), but do not take it on your own — always consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat — Nigerian weather can be very hot, so avoid leaving it near windows or in your car. Keep it in its original container and far from the reach of children.
For information only — not medical advice. Always talk to a doctor or pharmacist before changing your medication.
Names this drug is sold under — especially in Nigerian and West African pharmacies
Tap a brand for packaging, NAFDAC details and authenticity check
Counterfeit Drug Warning
Fake drugs are a serious problem in Nigeria. Always buy from a registered pharmacy. If the packaging looks different from what is described above, do not use it.
Dispensing Nifedipine?
Clinical tools built for Nigerian pharmacists — launching soon.