What is Isradipine?
Isradipine, a calcium-channel blocker, is used for hypertension (high blood pressure). Isradipine can be used in conjunction with diuretics or "water pills." This medication guide does not list all possible uses of isradipine.
Side effects of Isradipine
If you experience any of the following symptoms of an allergic reaction: difficulty breathing, hives or facial, lip or throat swelling. Seek medical assistance immediately!
Isradipine can cause serious side effects. If you experience:
- Lightheadedness and dizziness may occur.
- If you feel your heart fluttering or pounding, then this is what it means.
- Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly sensation);
- Tiredness;
- Heart problems: swelling, rapid weight increase, feeling of shortness of breath
Isradipine can cause the following side effects:
- Flushing;
- Headache, dizziness;
- Swelling;
- Fast heartbeats;
- Upset stomach.
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.
Similar/related drugs
Amlodipine, lisinopril, metoprolol, aspirin, losartan, furosemide, and hydrochlorothiazide
Warnings
Please read all the instructions on the label or package of your medication. Inform your healthcare provider about your medical conditions, your allergies, and the medicines you are using.
Before you take this drug
If you have an allergy to isradipine, it should be avoided.
Inform your physician of any of the following issues:
- Congestive heart failure;
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease is a serious condition.
Isradipine may have a greater effect on older adults.
Isradipine is not known to harm unborn babies. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning on becoming pregnant. Breastfeeding is not recommended while taking isradipine.
How to take Isradipine?
Read all the instructions or guides that come with your medication and follow the directions. Sometimes, your doctor will change the dose. Take your medication as directed. You will need to check your blood pressure frequently. Your blood pressure may improve in 2 to 4 weeks.
Even if you are feeling well, continue to take this medication as prescribed. High blood pressure can often be symptomless. Blood pressure medication may be needed for the rest of your life. Store away from heat, moisture, and light. Keep the bottle securely closed when not in use.
You should always follow the instructions on your medication and be sure to read any guides that you get. You should not stop taking or change the dose of your medication without consulting your doctor.
Details on dosage
Usual Adult Dose for Hypertension:
Initial dose:
Immediate release capsules: Orally, 2.5 mg twice daily
Tablets with controlled release: 5 mg taken orally, once per day
Maintenance dose: Adjust the dose as necessary and tolerated by adding 5 mg every 2 to 4 weeks.
The recommended maximum daily dose of the immediate-release capsules for most patients is 20mg, even though they do not show any additional response at doses higher than 10 mg/day. The controlled-release tablets can be taken at a maximum dose of 20 mg/day.
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.
What happens if I overdose?
Call 1-800-222-1222 for poison help or seek immediate medical attention. Overdose symptoms include rapid heartbeats, dizziness, and warmth in the arms and legs.
What should be avoided?
You may get dizzy if you stand up quickly from a seated or lying position. Do not drive or engage in hazardous activities until you have determined how you will be affected by isradipine. You may be unable to react.
Interaction with other drug
Tell your doctor if you are taking any other medications, including:
- Cimetidine (Tagamet);
- Fentanyl
- Rifampin.
This list is incomplete. Isradipine may be affected by other drugs, such as prescription and over-the-counter medicines and vitamin and herb products. This list does not include all possible drug interactions.
