Dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker
ATC code: C08CA05 (Nifedipine)
Blocks L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, relaxes arterioles, lowers peripheral resistance. Vascular-selective with weak myocardial effect. Immediate-release (IR – dangerous in hypertensive emergency due to rapid BP drop) and slow-release forms (SR, OROS – Adalat OROS, Procardia XL).
First line
Hypertension during breastfeeding. 2020 and SEGO 2023 – drug of choice. RID 1.8-3.5%, no milk-supply effect. Also used for nipple vasospasm (Raynaud's of the nipple) in nursing mothers – 30 mg 1-2 times daily.
First line
Hypertension in pregnancy (SR form) and tocolysis in preterm labor (IR off-label). Per 222 (2020) and SEGO 2023, nifedipine SR is first-line alongside methyldopa and labetalol. SR dose 30-60 mg 1-2 times daily. IR not recommended for HTN due to reflex tachycardia and BP drop.
Opens the checker prefilled with this drug. Pick the second one from your regimen.
Direct links to regulator labels. Open in a new tab.
Safe (SR form). Use from 2nd trimester as indicated.
Compatible. Hale L2. RID 1.8-3.5%. No milk-supply effect.
Reference information, not a clinical decision. Discuss feeding pauses or changes with your physician or an IBCLC.
Nifedipine is evaluated for the following indications with varying evidence strength: Hypertension in pregnancy (evidence tier A), Hypertension during breastfeeding (evidence tier A). See the full indication matrix with dosing and citations above on this page.
Common side effects of Nifedipine (≥ 1 in 100): Lower-limb edema (10-30%), Headache, Flushing, Palpitations, Constipation. See the Safety section for uncommon and serious reactions.
FDA category C. Safe (SR form). Use from 2nd trimester as indicated.
Compatible. Hale L2. RID 1.8-3.5%. No milk-supply effect.
Nifedipine is contraindicated in: Hypersensitivity; Cardiogenic shock; Severe aortic stenosis; Acute MI in first 1-3 months; Severe hepatic impairment. Full list in the Safety section.