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Cardene IV (oral or injection)

Generic name: nicardipine (oral/injection) [nye-KAR-di-peen]
Brand name: Cardene IV
Drug class: calcium channel blocking agents

What is Cardene IV?

Cardene oral IV is used to treat hypertension and chest pain (angina) in adults. Cardene IV is a treatment for high blood pressure in adults. Cardene IV can be used in other ways not mentioned in this guide.

Side effects of Cardene IV

If you experience any of the following signs and symptoms of an allergic reaction: hives; difficulty breathing; swelling in lips, face, tongue or throat - seek medical help immediately! Some side effects can occur during the injection. You should tell your doctor if you experience nausea, dizziness, lightheadedness, itching, sweating, or a headache. Cardene IV may cause chest pain to be more severe and more frequent when it is first started or doses are altered.

Cardene IV may cause serious side effects. If you experience:

  • Chest pain;
  • A feeling of lightheadedness, as if you could pass out.
  • Heart problems: swelling, rapid weight gain, or feeling short of breath.
  • Fast or uneven heart rate

Cardene IV side effects may include:

  • Headache, dizziness, weakness;
  • High blood pressure;
  • You may experience swelling in your feet.
  • Flushing (sudden heat, redness, or tingly sensation);
  • Nausea, vomiting.

There may be other side effects. For medical advice on side effects, call your doctor. The FDA can be contacted at 1-800-FDA-1088 to report side effects.

Warnings

Cardene IV should not be used if your heart has a severe narrowing (aorticstenosis).

Before you take this drug

Cardene IV should not be used if:

  • Aortic stenosis is a severe narrowing of your aortic heart valve.

Notify your doctor of any of the following conditions:

  • Other heart conditions, such as congestive heart failure and coronary artery disease,
  • Low blood pressure
  • Brain injury or bleed;
  • Liver disease
  • Kidney disease is a serious condition.

Cardene IV is not known to harm an unborn child. High blood pressure during pregnancy can cause medical complications for both the mother and the child. Treatment of hypertension can be beneficial to both mother and baby. Inform your doctor if breastfeeding is a concern.

How to take Cardene IV?

Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow the directions. Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. As per your physician's directions, take your medications exactly as directed.

Cardene IV oral is taken by mouth.Cardene IV is administered as an intravenous infusion. This injection will be given by a healthcare provider.Cardene IV can only be administered by injection if the patient is unable to swallow medicine.You may require frequent blood tests to check your blood pressure.Cardene IV should be used even if you are feeling well or have high blood pressure. High blood pressure can often be symptomless. Never stop taking medication or change the dose without consulting your doctor.Store tightly closed, at room temperature, and away from moisture, light, heat, and moisture.

What happens if I miss the dose?

If you are almost due for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses of the same medicine at once. Cardene IV is not missed in a medical setting.

What happens if I overdose?

Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention. Overdose symptoms include irregular heartbeats (flushing), drowsiness, and confusion.

What should be avoided?

You could become dizzy if you suddenly stand up from sitting or lying down quickly.

Interaction with other drug

It is sometimes not safe to take certain medications at the same time. Some medications may alter the blood levels of medications you're already taking, causing side effects or lessening their efficacy.Cardene IV may be affected by other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products. Inform your doctor of all the other medications you take.