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Nicardipine Coupon - Nicardipine 20mg capsule

nicardipine

Generic Cardene
Used for Hypertension, Angina
Used for Hypertension, Angina

Nicardipine (Cardene) capsules are used to treat chest pain and high blood pressure, but it can also affect your heart rate. The capsules used to be available as a brand name, but come as generics. Nicardipine (Cardene) is also available as an intravenous (IV) drip (continuous infusion) that's administered by a healthcare provider to treat high blood pressure for people who can't take medications by mouth. Common side effects of this medication include swelling of the feet, flushing, headache, and dizziness.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
Last reviewed on June 4, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostContraindicationsAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Nicardipine (Cardene)?

What is Nicardipine (Cardene) used for?

  • Chest pain caused by low blood flow to the heart (stable angina) - oral capsules only

  • High blood pressure (hypertension)

How Nicardipine (Cardene) works

Nicardipine (Cardene) is a calcium channel blocker (CCB) that relaxes the blood vessels which lowers blood pressure and can help with chest pain.

Are you looking for information on nifedipine (Procardia XL) instead?

Drug Facts

Common BrandsCardene
Drug ClassCalcium channel blocker (CCB)
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusLower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only
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$986.38

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What are the side effects of Nicardipine (Cardene)?

The following side effects may get better over time as your body gets used to the medication. Let your healthcare provider know immediately if you continue to experience these symptoms or if they worsen over time.

Common Side Effects

  • Flushing (6-10%)
  • Swelling of the feet (7-8%)
  • Headache (6-8%)
  • Dizziness (4-7%)
  • Weakness (4-6%)
  • Chest pain (6%)
  • Racing heart (3-4%)
  • Fast heart rate (1-3%)
  • Nausea (2%)
  • Indigestion (1-2%)

Other Side Effects

  • Dry mouth
  • Drowsiness
  • Rash
  • Muscle pain
  • Other swelling
  • Feeling of pins and needles
  • Fainting
  • Constipation
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Feeling unwell
  • Nervousness
  • Tremor
  • Insomnia (trouble falling or staying asleep)

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Heart problems: chest pain, pressure in your chest, sweating, difficulty breathing, dizziness, tiredness, swelling in the hands and feet

Source: DailyMed

The following side effects have also been reported

Along with its needed effects, a medicine may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur:

More common

Arm, back, or jaw pain

chest pain or discomfort

chest tightness or heaviness

fast or irregular heartbeat

nausea

palpitations

shortness of breath

sweating

swelling of the legs

Less common

Shakiness

swelling

Rare

Blurred vision

cold hands and feet

cold sweats

confusion

cough or hoarseness

difficulty swallowing

dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up from a lying or sitting position suddenly

extra heartbeat

fever or chills

hives

increase in frequency of urination

itching

lower back or side pain

painful or difficult urination

puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue

skin rash

unusual tiredness or weakness

wheezing

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur:

Symptoms of overdose

Sleepiness

slurred speech

Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects. Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common

Feeling of warmth

headache

lack or loss of strength

redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper chest

Less common

Acid or sour stomach

belching

burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings

difficulty in moving

dry mouth

heartburn

indigestion

joint pain

muscle aching or cramping

muscle pains or stiffness

rash

stomach discomfort, upset, or pain

swollen joints

Rare

Changes in vision

constipation

continuing ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in ears

decreased interest in sexual intercourse

difficult or labored breathing

discouragement

fear or nervousness

feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

feeling sad or empty

hearing loss

inability to have or keep an erection

increase in body movements

irritability

lack of appetite

loss of interest or pleasure

loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance

nervousness

pain or tenderness around eyes and cheekbones

runny nose

sensation of spinning

sneezing

sore throat

stuffy nose

trouble concentrating

trouble sleeping

Other side effects not listed may also occur in some patients. If you notice any other effects, check with your healthcare professional.

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to the FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088.

pros-and-cons

Pros and cons of Nicardipine (Cardene)

thumbs-up

Pros

Available in both oral capsules and IV forms

Can be taken with other medications for chest pain (nitroglycerin SL (Nitrostat), nitrates, or beta blockers)

Can be taken with other medications for high blood pressure (diuretics or beta blockers)

thumbs-down

Cons

Capsules need to be taken 3 times a day

Often causes swelling in the feet

Can pass into breastmilk, might not be recommended for people who are breastfeeding

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Nicardipine (Cardene)

pharmacist

  • You can take nicardipine (Cardene) with or without meals. Although food might affect how much nicardipine (Cardene) your body absorbs, makers of the medication don't recommend that you base your dose around when you eat.

    • Nicardipine (Cardene) can cause your blood pressure to drop when you stand up from a sitting or lying down position. When you first start nicardipine (Cardene) or switch to a higher dose, make sure to stand up slowly to avoid falling from the dizziness.

      • Since nicardipine (Cardene) lowers your blood pressure, it might cause dizziness and sleepiness. See how you feel on this medication before you drive or operate machinery.

        • Nicardipine (Cardene) can cause your feet to swell. Let your provider know if this is an issue for you. They may need to change your dose or medication.

          faqs

          Frequently asked questions about Nicardipine (Cardene)

          Does nicardipine (Cardene) lower heart rate?
          Though rare, people who took nicardipine (Cardene) in clinical trials noted a rise in their heart rate. Nicardipine (Cardene) works in your body by widening the blood vessels, which leads to a drop in blood pressure. As a result, your heart pumps at a higher rate to try to raise the blood pressure back up. If you've more questions about how nicardipine (Cardene) affects your heart, talk with your provider.
          If I'm switching from a beta blocker to nicardipine (Cardene), can I just stop my beta blocker once I start nicardipine (Cardene)?
          No, beta blockers shouldn't be stopped suddenly because this can lead to withdrawal effects, such as a rise in heart rate and blood pressure. While nicardipine (Cardene) lowers blood pressure, it isn't a beta blocker, so it doesn't protect you against the withdrawal effects of stopping a beta blocker suddenly. If you want to stop your beta blocker, ask your provider how you can do so safely.
          Is it safe for older adults to take nicardipine (Cardene)?
          There aren't enough studies looking at whether older adults respond differently to nicardipine (Cardene) than younger adults. In general however, older adults have a higher risk of liver, kidney, heart, or other health problems, so your provider might have you start on a lower dose.
          Why is nicardipine (Cardene) used in stroke?
          Having high blood pressure puts you at a higher risk for stroke. If you have high blood pressure, your provider will try to bring down your blood pressure in order to help prevent a stroke.
          Calcium channel blockers, like nicardipine (Cardene), can be used for stroke prevention, but they're not a first-choice option. Your provider might prescribe nicardipine (Cardene) if you're not able to take a first choice medication (e.g., thiazide diuretic, ACE-inhibitor, or ARB) or if you have a specific medical condition. Talk with your provider if you've questions about the use of nicardipine (Cardene) in stroke.
          Can I take nicardipine (Cardene) if I'm pregnant?
          Nicardipine (Cardene) isn't recommended for you if you're breastfeeding because it can pass into your breast milk. Speak with your provider if you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant to see if this medication is safe for you. There haven't been any studies in pregnant women taking nicardipine (Cardene). Animal studies showed that this medication might cause labor difficulty, low birth weight, low survival rate of newborns, and less weight gain.
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          What are the risks and warnings for Nicardipine (Cardene)?

          Nicardipine (Cardene) can cause some serious health issues. This risk may be even higher for certain groups. If this worries you, talk to your doctor or pharmacist about other options.

          risk-warning

          Worsening of heart problems

          • Risk factors: Congestive heart failure | Having heart failure and taking a beta blocker

            Though rare, some people taking nicardipine (Cardene) reported worsening or more frequent angina (chest pain). This was more common at the start of treatment or when they switched to a higher dose.

            In addition, some people with heart failure experienced worsening symptoms while taking nicardipine (Cardene). Let your provider know if you have heart failure, especially if you're taking a beta blocker, before starting nicardipine (Cardene), or if you have worsened chest pain when taking nicardipine (Cardene).

            risk-warning

            Symptoms of low blood pressure

            Nicardipine (Cardene) can occasionally cause symptoms of low blood pressure (symptomatic hypotension), such as dizziness, lightheadedness, blurred vision, or fainting. Let your provider know if you have a history of a stroke, because this risk can be especially dangerous. Your provider might adjust your dose and have you monitor your blood pressure during your treatment.

            risk-warning

            Use in people with liver and kidney problems

            • Risk factors: Liver failure | Kidney failure

              Nicardipine (Cardene) gets processed through the liver, so you might have more of the medication build up in your body if you have liver problems. The amount of nicardipine (Cardene) might also be higher in your body if you have kidney problems. With this in mind, your provider might lower your dose of nicardipine (Cardene) if you have liver or kidney problems.

              dosage

              Nicardipine (Cardene) dosage forms

              The average cost for 90 capsules of 20mg of Nicardipine (Cardene) is $218.00 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 77.9% off the average retail price of $986.38.
              capsule
              Capsule
              DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
              20mg90 capsules$218.00$2.42
              30mg90 capsules$307.00$3.41

              Typical dosing for Nicardipine (Cardene)

              The typical starting dose is 20 mg by mouth 3 times daily. Your provider will adjust your dose depending on your response to the medication. Your dose might differ if you have kidney, liver, or heart problems.

              Nicardipine (Cardene) is also available as an IV infusion that's administered by a healthcare provider.

              interactions

              Interactions between Nicardipine (Cardene) and other drugs

              Nicardipine (Cardene) may interact with certain medications or supplements. Always let your doctor and pharmacist know about any other medications or supplements (including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and dietary or herbal supplements) that you are currently taking. The list below does not include all possible drug interactions with Nicardipine (Cardene). Please note that only the generic name of each medication is listed below.

              Using this medicine with any of the following medicines is usually not recommended, but may be required in some cases. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

              Using this medicine with any of the following medicines may cause an increased risk of certain side effects, but using both drugs may be the best treatment for you. If both medicines are prescribed together, your doctor may change the dose or how often you use one or both of the medicines.

              drug-cost

              How much does Nicardipine (Cardene) cost?

              To access savings, use a GoodRx coupon and pay just a fraction of the retail price.
              Nicardipine (Cardene) (generic)
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              contraindications-icon

              Nicardipine (Cardene) contraindications

              Contraindications are specific health conditions or situations in which a person should not take a medication due to safety concerns. If you have any of the following conditions or if any of the following apply to you, let your healthcare provider know because Nicardipine (Cardene) will not be safe for you to take.

              • Severe narrowing of the aortic valve (advanced aortic stenosis)

              alternatives

              What are alternatives to Nicardipine (Cardene)?

              There are a number of medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of Nicardipine (Cardene). Compare a few possible alternatives below.
              Nicardipine (Cardene)
              Used for:

              • Chest pain caused by low blood flow to the heart (stable angina) - oral capsules only

              • High blood pressure (hypertension)

              $218.87 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
              Amlodipine (Norvasc)
              Used for:

              • High blood pressure

              • Clogged arteries in the heart (coronary artery disease)

              $5.70 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
              Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL)
              Used for:

              • Chest pain (angina)

              • High blood pressure (hypertension) - extended-release tablets only

              $14.01 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
              images

              Nicardipine (Cardene) images

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              This medicine is Green And White Capsule Imprinted With "Mylan 1020 Mylan 1020".Green And White Mylan 1020 Mylan 1020 - Nicardipine Hydrochloride 20mg Capsule
              Blue And White A41 - Nicardipine Hydrochloride 20mg Capsule
              This medicine is Blue And White Capsule Imprinted With "A41".Blue And White A41 - Nicardipine Hydrochloride 20mg Capsule
              Blue And White E501 E501 - Nicardipine Hydrochloride 20mg Capsule
              This medicine is Blue And White Capsule Imprinted With "E501 E501".Blue And White E501 E501 - Nicardipine Hydrochloride 20mg Capsule
              Green Ani 205 - Nicardipine Hydrochloride 20mg Capsule
              This medicine is Green Capsule Imprinted With "Ani 205".Green Ani 205 - Nicardipine Hydrochloride 20mg Capsule

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              References

              Best studies we found

              American Heart Association. (2021). Angina (chest pain).

              ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (2023). NICARDIPINE HYDROCHLORIDE capsule [package insert]. DailyMed.

              Baxter Healthcare Corporation. (2022). CARDENE IV- nicardipine hydrochloride injection, solution [package insert]. DailyMed.

              View All References (3)

              Drugs and Lactation Database (LactMed). (2021). Nicardipine. National Institute of Child Health and Human Development.

              Kleindorfer, D. O., et al. (2021). 2021 guideline for the prevention of stroke in patients with stroke and transient ischemic attack: A guideline from the American Heart Association/American Stroke Association. Stroke.

              MedlinePlus. (2023). Stable angina.

              GoodRx Health has strict sourcing policies and relies on primary sources such as medical organizations, governmental agencies, academic institutions, and peer-reviewed scientific journals. Learn more about how we ensure our content is accurate, thorough, and unbiased by reading our editorial guidelines.
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