Nicardipine

Nicardipine

DrugNicardipine
Brand namesCardene ®
IndicationsHypertension, hypertensive emergency/crisis.
Pregnancy induced hypertension.
Angina pectoris
Prinzmetal’s angina
Mechanism of actionNicardipine is a dihydropyridine calcium-channel blocker (CCB). Nicardipine inhibits the influx of extracellular calcium in the myocardial and peripheral vascular smooth muscle cell membranes, thus inhibiting the contraction of smooth muscle cells. As compared with nitroprusside, nicardipine induces relatively greater venodilation than arteriolar dilation.
EffectsNicardipine causes dilation of the coronary and systemic arteries, decreases total peripheral resistance, decreases systemic blood pressure, and decreases afterload. Nicardipine has antianginal and antihypertensive effects.
Time to onset of action5 to 15 minutes
Duration of action1.5 to 5 hours
DeliveryIV
Dose5–15 mg/hour IV infusion.
Higher doses (up to 30 mg/hour) may be required in some patients.
Adverse effectsTachycardia. Headache. Flushing. Edema. Dizziness.
CautionShould be used cautiously in patients with myocardial ischemia and/or heart failure.
Nicardipine doses and administration in hypertension (hypertensive crisis/emergency).
Updated on 2025-01-18