Nifedipine
Procardia (nifedipine) is a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure and certain types of chest pain (angina). It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which makes it easier for the heart to pump blood and reduces strain on the cardiovascular system. This medication is available by prescription only and comes in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations.
Procardia is a calcium channel blocker that treats high blood pressure and angina by relaxing blood vessels.
Key facts at a glance
- RxNorm
- 203423
- Generic
- Procardia
- Class
- brand-name
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- —
- Forms
- —
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Procardia is primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and angina pectoris (chest pain). It may also be prescribed for Raynaud's phenomenon to improve blood flow to the fingers and toes.
As a calcium channel blocker, Procardia prevents calcium from entering the smooth muscle cells lining blood vessel walls. This causes the muscles to relax, leading to vasodilation (widening of blood vessels), which lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart's oxygen demand.
Procardia should not be stopped abruptly without medical supervision. Common side effects may include headache, dizziness, flushing, and ankle swelling. Grapefruit juice can interact with this medication and should be avoided. Extended-release and immediate-release formulations are not interchangeable.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 9, 2026. · Read our editorial policy