Key takeaways
Nifedipine (Procardia XL) and nimodipine (Nymalize) are both calcium channel blockers, but they are used for different conditions. Nifedipine is primarily used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain (angina) by relaxing blood vessels to improve blood flow. It is available in both extended-release and immediate-release forms, with the extended-release form being more commonly prescribed. On the other hand, Nimodipine is used to prevent brain damage after a specific type of brain bleed called an aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (aSAH). It is typically started in the hospital and taken every 4 hours for 3 weeks. While both medications can cause low blood pressure, nimodipine requires more frequent dosing and must be taken on an empty stomach. Additionally, nimodipine is available in a liquid form for those who have difficulty swallowing capsules, whereas nifedipine is available in a lower-cost generic form.
