Azelnidipine
Precise Biopharma Pvt Ltd ,
Torrent Pharmaceuticals Ltd
Azdin 16mg Tablet 10s ,
Uniaz 16mg Tablet 10s
DRUG STATUS
Approvals
US. FDA / uk mhra / ema / pdma
Essential Medicine
WHO / India
Use in Pregnancy
Not Advised / Caution
Pharmaceutical Class
ama / pdma
Summary
Azelnidipine is primarily used to treat hypertension, which is high blood pressure. It helps lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications like heart attack and stroke.
Azelnidipine is a calcium channel blocker. It works by blocking the entry of calcium into the muscle cells of the blood vessels and the heart. This causes the blood vessels to relax and widen, which helps lower blood pressure and allows the heart to pump more easily.
The usual dosage of Azelnidipine for adults is 16.5 mg once daily. The dose may be adjusted depending on the patient's condition and response to the medication. It is typically taken orally, with or without food, at the same time each day.
The most common side effects of Azelnidipine include headache, dizziness, flushing, and ankle swelling. More significant, but rare, adverse effects may include low blood pressure, heart palpitations, fatigue, and gastrointestinal issues like nausea.
Azelnidipine should be avoided in patients with severe hypotension, liver dysfunction, or known hypersensitivity to the drug. It is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. It may cause significant blood pressure drops, especially after the first dose. Always consult a healthcare provider for proper use and monitoring.
Indications and Purpose
How does Azelnidipine work?
Azelnidipine is a calcium channel blocker that works by inhibiting the entry of calcium ions into the smooth muscle cells of the blood vessels and the heart. By blocking calcium, it causes the blood vessels to relax and widen (vasodilation), which helps lower blood pressure. This reduction in vascular resistance allows the heart to pump more easily and efficiently, improving blood flow.
How does one know if Azelnidipine is working?
The effectiveness of Azelnidipine is primarily evaluated through blood pressure monitoring. Regular measurements of systolic and diastolic blood pressure help determine how well the medication is controlling hypertension. Additionally, its long-term cardiovascular benefits may be assessed based on reductions in blood pressure, along with patient-reported outcomes and any potential side effects.
Is Azelnidipine effective?
Azelnidipine has been shown to be effective in lowering blood pressure in patients with hypertension. Clinical studies have demonstrated that it significantly reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure with minimal reflex tachycardia, a common side effect of other calcium channel blockers. It has a prolonged effect, maintaining blood pressure control over 24 hours, making it suitable for once-daily dosing.
What is Azelnidipine used for?
Azelnidipine is primarily indicated for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). It is used to help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of complications like heart attack and stroke, which are associated with uncontrolled high blood pressure.
Directions for Use
How do I take Azelnidipine?
Azelnidipine can be taken with or without food. There are no specific food restrictions while taking this medication, but it is advisable to take it at the same time each day for consistent results. Ensure you follow the prescribed dosage and consult your healthcare provider if you have any concerns or experience side effects.
How long does it take for Azelnidipine to start working?
Azelnidipine typically starts working within 1 to 2 hours after administration, with its full antihypertensive effects becoming evident over several days to weeks of consistent use.
How should I dispose of Azelnidipine?
Don't flush Azelnidipine down the toilet. Take it back to a pharmacy or contact your local garbage department for safe disposal options. This helps keep the environment and water clean.
How should I store Azelnidipine?
Keep Azelnidipine in a cool (59 86°F), dark, and dry place, not the bathroom.
What are the consequences to stopping Azelnidipine?
If you've been taking Azelnidipine for a while and stop suddenly, your body can have a strong reaction. This can cause your heart to beat irregularly, make you sweat, and tremble.
What is Azelnidipine’s dose and duration?
The usual dosage of Azelnidipine for adults is 16.5 mg once daily, although the dose may be adjusted depending on the patient's condition and response to the medication. It is typically taken orally with or without food. It should be taken at the same time each day to help remember. Always follow the doctor's specific instructions regarding dosage and adjustments.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Azelnidipine?
If you forget to take your Azelnidipine, take it right away. But if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed one and take the next dose as usual. Do not take two doses at once to make up for the missed one.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Azelnidipine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Azelnidipine is generally not recommended for use while breastfeeding unless absolutely necessary. The potential risks to the infant should be carefully weighed against the benefits. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice regarding its use during lactation.
Can Azelnidipine be taken safely while pregnant?
Azelnidipine is generally not recommended during pregnancy due to potential risks. Safer alternatives like labetalol or nifedipine are preferred. Always consult a healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Can Azelnidipine be taken safely while trying to conceive?
When trying to conceive, caution is advised with azelnidipine. While it is a calcium channel blocker used for hypertension, its safety during conception is not fully established.
Can I take Azelnidipine with other prescription drugs?
Azelnidipine can interact with other blood pressure medications like beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, or diuretics, which may enhance its blood pressure-lowering effects, leading to hypotension. It can also interact with certain antifungal medications (e.g., ketoconazole), antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), and HIV medications (e.g., ritonavir), which may increase Azelnidipine levels in the blood. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining these medications.
Can I take Azelnidipine with vitamins or supplements?
Azelnidipine may interact with supplements such as potassium, as it can affect electrolyte balance. Potassium supplements should be used cautiously, as Azelnidipine may increase potassium levels. It's also advisable to avoid excessive use of calcium supplements, as they may interfere with the drug's blood pressure-lowering effect. Always consult a healthcare provider before combining with supplements.
What are Azelnidipine possible harms and risks?
The most common side effects of Azelnidipine include headache, dizziness, flushing, and ankle swelling. These occur due to its blood pressure-lowering effects. More significant adverse effects, although rare, may include low blood pressure (hypotension), heart palpitations, fatigue, or gastrointestinal issues like nausea. Serious allergic reactions, such as rash or swelling, may also occur.
Who should avoid taking Azelnidipine?
Azelnidipine should be avoided in patients with severe hypotension, liver dysfunction, or known hypersensitivity to the drug. Caution is needed during pregnancy and breastfeeding. It may cause significant blood pressure drops, especially after the first dose. Always consult a healthcare provider for proper use and monitoring.
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