Isradipine
Hypertension, Variant Angina Pectoris
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
Dihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blocker
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Isradipine
Summary
Isradipine is used to treat high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. It can be used alone or in combination with other medications, such as thiazide-type diuretics.
Isradipine is a type of medication known as a calcium channel blocker. It works by inhibiting calcium flux into cardiac and smooth muscle. This action relaxes blood vessels, reduces systemic resistance, and lowers blood pressure, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
Isradipine is typically taken by mouth as a capsule, usually twice a day. The usual starting dose for adults is 2.5 mg taken twice daily. The dose may be adjusted in increments of 5 mg/day at 2 to 4-week intervals up to a maximum of 20 mg/day.
Common side effects of Isradipine include headache, dizziness, edema (swelling), and palpitations (fast or irregular heartbeat). More serious side effects can include chest pain, difficulty breathing, and fainting.
Isradipine should not be used by individuals with hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients. It should be used cautiously in patients with congestive heart failure and may cause symptomatic low blood pressure, so monitoring is important. Pregnant women should use it only if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risks.
Indications and Purpose
How does Isradipine work?
Isradipine is a calcium channel blocker that inhibits calcium flux into cardiac and smooth muscle. This action relaxes blood vessels, reduces systemic resistance, and lowers blood pressure, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
Is Isradipine effective?
Isradipine has been shown in controlled, double-blind clinical trials to be an effective antihypertensive agent. It reduces blood pressure when used alone or in combination with thiazide-type diuretics, demonstrating its effectiveness in managing hypertension.
What is Isradipine?
Isradipine is used to treat high blood pressure. It belongs to a class of medications called calcium channel blockers, which work by relaxing blood vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard. This helps lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Isradipine?
Isradipine is typically used as a long-term treatment for managing high blood pressure. It is important to continue taking it even if you feel well, as it controls blood pressure but does not cure it. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the duration of use.
How do I take Isradipine?
Isradipine should be taken as a capsule by mouth, usually twice a day. It can be taken with or without food, but taking it with food may delay the time to peak concentration. Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice, and consult your doctor about salt substitutes containing potassium.
How long does it take for Isradipine to start working?
Isradipine typically starts to lower blood pressure within 2 to 3 hours after taking a dose. However, the maximal response may require 2 to 4 weeks of consistent use.
How should I store Isradipine?
Store Isradipine in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of reach of children. Keep it at room temperature, away from excess heat and moisture, and not in the bathroom. Dispose of unneeded medication through a take-back program.
What is the usual dose of Isradipine?
The usual starting dose for adults is 2.5 mg taken twice daily. The dose may be adjusted in increments of 5 mg/day at 2 to 4-week intervals, up to a maximum of 20 mg/day. There is no established dose for children as safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Isradipine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
It is not known whether Isradipine is excreted in human milk. Due to the potential for adverse effects on nursing infants, a decision should be made to either discontinue nursing or discontinue the drug, considering its importance to the mother.
Can Isradipine be taken safely while pregnant?
Isradipine should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risks. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women, so it is important to consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can I take Isradipine with other prescription drugs?
Isradipine may interact with cimetidine, increasing its plasma concentration. It should be used cautiously with beta-blockers and other medications affecting blood pressure. Always inform your doctor about all medications you are taking to avoid interactions.
Is Isradipine safe for the elderly?
In elderly patients, the bioavailability of Isradipine is increased, so the starting dose should still be 2.5 mg twice daily. It is important to monitor blood pressure regularly and adjust the dose as needed under medical supervision.
Who should avoid taking Isradipine?
Isradipine is contraindicated in individuals with hypersensitivity to any of its ingredients. Caution is advised in patients with congestive heart failure, as it may have negative inotropic effects at high doses. It may also cause symptomatic hypotension, so monitoring is important.
