Introduction

Nicardipine (nye-kar-di-peen)

Treats high blood pressure.

Brand Name(s)

There may be other brand names for this medicine.

Cardene I.V., Novaplus NICARdipine Hydrochloride, Cardene

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used

You should not receive this medicine if you have had an allergic reaction to nicardipine, or if you have aortic stenosis (a type of blood vessel problem).

How to Use This Medicine

Injectable

• Your doctor will prescribe your exact dose and tell you how often it should be given. This medicine is given through a needle placed in one of your veins.
• A nurse or other trained health professional will give you this medicine.
• This medicine is not for long-term use.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are also using other blood pressure medicine such as atenolol, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), lisinopril, quinapril, Accupril®, Cozaar®, Diovan®, Lotrel®, Norvasc®, Toprol®, or Zestril®.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you are using digoxin (Lanoxin®), cimetidine, or cyclosporine (Neoral®, Sandimmune®).

Warnings While Using This Medicine

• Make sure your doctor knows if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. You should not breastfeed while receiving this medicine.
• Make sure your doctor knows if you have angina (chest pain), heart disease, or congestive heart failure. Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, kidney disease, or pheochromocytoma (tumor of the adrenal gland). Tell your doctor if you have had a recent stroke or brain injury with severe bleeding.
• Make sure your doctor or dentist who treats you knows that you are using this medicine. This medicine may cause a problem with medicine given during surgery or a procedure.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing.
• Bloody urine.
• Chest pain, shortness of breath, or coughing up blood.
• Fast or uneven heartbeat.
• Increase in how much or how often you urinate.
• Lightheadedness or fainting.
• Numbness or weakness in your arm or leg, or on one side of your body.
• Pain in your lower leg (calf).
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet.
• Unusual bleeding, bruising, or weakness.

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Headache.
• Nausea or vomiting.
• Pain, itching, or swelling where the needle is placed.

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088