Dumfries & Galloway Health Board
Prescribing Support Team

Nifedipine immediate release review protocol

Posted: 1 Aug 11 Edited: 8 Aug 18
Audits Cardiovascular


Immediate release nifedipine capsules are associated with baroreflex sympathetic activation and tachycardia. In the 1990’s concerns were raised that short-acting nifedipine increased cardiovascular and overall mortality. Modified-release preparations of nifedipine are designed to produce a more gradual change in blood pressure and cause less sympathetic activation.

Patients treated with nifedipine immediate-release capsules will be considered for Adipine (slow release nifedipine) or amlodipine.