Adalat LA 30mg Tablets contain nifedipine 30mg in a prolonged-release formulation. Nifedipine belongs to a group of medicines called calcium channel blockers, specifically dihydropyridine calcium antagonists. It acts mainly on the smooth muscle of blood vessels, causing the arteries to relax and widen.
How does Adalat LA work?
The active ingredient, nifedipine, blocks the movement of calcium ions through slow calcium channels into vascular smooth muscle cells.
Calcium is required for contraction of smooth muscle. By reducing calcium entry, nifedipine causes the arterial smooth muscle to relax. This produces vasodilation, lowering peripheral resistance and therefore reducing blood pressure.
The same vasodilating effect on coronary arteries can improve coronary blood flow and help prevent episodes of chronic stable angina.
USES / INDICATIONS
Adalat LA 30mg is used for:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Prevention of chronic stable angina pectoris
It is not intended for treatment of an acute angina attack.
PRECAUTIONS & WARNINGS
- Prescription-only medicine.
- Do not use to treat an acute attack of angina.
- Use cautiously if you have low blood pressure.
- Inform your doctor if you have heart disease, liver disease or other significant medical conditions.
- Tell your doctor or pharmacist about all other medicines you take.
- Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice during treatment.
- Rifampicin should not be used concomitantly with Adalat LA.
- Do not crush, chew or break the prolonged-release tablet.
- Seek medical attention for severe dizziness, fainting, worsening chest pain or other serious symptoms.
- Keep out of reach of children.
COMMON SIDE EFFECTS
Possible side effects of nifedipine include:
- Headache
- Dizziness
- Flushing
- Peripheral oedema (swelling of the ankles or legs)
- Constipation
- Nausea
- Palpitations
- Low blood pressure
- Fatigue
Oedema and headache are among the more commonly reported adverse effects with nifedipine.
Seek medical advice if swelling is severe or persistent, or if you experience significant dizziness, fainting, worsening chest pain or other concerning symptoms.
