Procardia XL Description

If you have been diagnosed with high blood pressure (hypertension) or are experiencing the chest pains of stable or variant angina, your doctor can prescribe Procardia XL (also called Adalat XL). This is an extended release formula of a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker that can help you lower your blood pressure and reduce the risk of a heart attack, stroke, or kidney disease. You can also do your part and start eating healthier, exercise, limit your alcohol intake, and stop smoking.

Lower Your BP and Reduce the Symptoms of Angina

Procardia XL or generic Nifedipine works to block calcium channels in your blood vessels. Your muscles contract by using calcium which is what happens with the blood vessels when the surroundings muscles tighten and cause your blood flow to be restricted. This increases your heart’s work load so it struggles to supply your other organs and tissues with a sufficient amount of blood. As Procardia XL relaxes the muscles, your blood vessels widen and the blood flow is restored so your heart does not have to work as hard. The generic alternative is not manufactured by the company that makes the brand product.

About Angina

There are several types of angina, all involve chest pains for one reason or another. Stable angina is quite predictable as it usually happens when you are exercising or are dealing with emotional stress. With rest and medication, the pain is relieved. This doesn’t mean that you are okay physically. Track how long your angina attacks are as this could indicate that it has developed into unstable angina and your risk of a heart attack is greater.

Variant angina happens spontaneously and is caused by a coronary artery spasm that can be quite painful. These spasms occur near the area of a blockage you have in at least one of your coronary arteries. Your doctor can recommend possible angioplasty where a stent is placed to open where the blockage was or even a coronary artery bypass .

Before Being Prescribed Procardia XL

Ask your doctor about the risks of taking Procardia XL while you are pregnant, trying to become pregnant, or are breast feeding. Your doctor should be made aware of other medical conditions or allergies you have and provided a list of any OTC or Rx drugs you currently take or use, including naturopathic therapy. This will help to determine if Procardia XL is the right medication for you.

Procardia XL Precautions

Do not eat grapefruit or drink grapefruit juice with Procardia XL as it may cause an increase in the effects of the drug. Until you know how Procardia XL will affect you, avoid any activity that requires you to be alert. Inform medical staff that you are taking Procardia XL before you undergo any dental or medical procedures as you may need to stop taking for a specified time.

Possible Side Effects of Procardia XL

• Dizziness
• Heartburn
• Constipation

Drugs Similar to Procardia XL

• Tribenzor
• Norvasc
• Exforge