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Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) Coupon - Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) 30mg tablet

nifedipine ER

Generic Procardia XL
Used for Hypertension, Angina
Used for Hypertension, Angina

Nifedipine (Procardia, Procardia XL) is a calcium channel blocker (CCB). It's used to treat certain heart conditions, such as chest pain (angina) and high blood pressure in adults. It mainly works by relaxing your blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow. Nifedipine is available as an extended-release pill (ER) that's taken by mouth once daily, and a immediate-release pill (IR) that's taken three times a day. Keep in mind the nifedipine IR is rarely prescribed. Some side effects of nifedipine include swelling in the legs, dizziness, tiredness, and headache.

Reviewed by:
reviewer
Kristianne Hannemann, PharmD
reviewer
Allison Gourley, PharmD
Last reviewed on October 2, 2023
BasicsSide effectsPros & consPharmacist tipsFAQsWarningsDosageInteractionsCostAlternativesLatest newsImagesReferencesPricesMedicare
basics-icon

What is Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL)?

What is Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) used for?

  • Chest pain (angina)

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

How Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) works

Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) is a calcium channel blocker (CCB). It mainly works by relaxing your blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and gets more oxygen to your heart to help with chest pain.

Are you looking for information on nicardipine instead?
When does Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) start working?
Time passed since treatment started:
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Full effect

Drug Facts

Common BrandsProcardia XL, Procardia
Drug ClassCalcium channel blocker (CCB)
Controlled Substance ClassificationNot a controlled medication
Generic StatusNo lower-cost generic available
AvailabilityPrescription only

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What are the side effects of Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL)?

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

Extended-release tablets:
  • Swelling (edema) in the legs, feet, or hands (10-30%)
  • Headache (16%)
  • Fatigue (6%)
  • Dizziness (4%)
Immediate-release capsules:
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness (27%)
  • Flushing (25%)
  • Headache (23%)
  • Weakness (12%)
  • Nausea (11%)
  • Swelling (10%)

Other Side Effects

  • Muscle cramps or tremors (shakiness)
  • Nervousness or mood changes
  • Racing heart (palpitations)
  • Shortness of breath, cough, or wheezing
  • Constipation

Serious Side Effects

Contact your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any of the following.
  • Low blood pressure or dizziness
  • Heart attack: worsening or crushing chest pain, radiating jaw pain, racing heartbeat
  • Heart failure: abnormal weight gain, difficulty breathing especially when you lie down
  • Stomach or intestine (gut) injury: stomach pain or bloating, difficulty passing stool or gas
When do Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) possible side effects begin and end?
Time passed since treatment started:
MINUTES
HOURS
DAYS
WEEKS
MONTHS
Swelling in hands and feet
Tiredness
Dizziness
If a line continues to the right, you'll likely keep experiencing this side effect once it starts.

Source: DailyMed

More on Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) side effects

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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

Bloating or swelling of the face, arms, hands, lower legs, or feet

cough

difficult or labored breathing

dizziness or lightheadedness

fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse

feeling of warmth

headache

muscle cramps

rapid weight gain

shakiness in the legs, arms, hands, or feet

shortness of breath

tightness in the chest

tingling of the hands or feet

trembling or shaking of the hands or feet

unusual weight gain or loss

weakness

wheezing

Less common

Blue lips and fingernails

chest congestion

chest pain

chills

coughing that sometimes produces a pink frothy sputum

decreased urine output

difficult, fast, or noisy breathing, sometimes with wheezing

dilated neck veins

extreme fatigue

fever

increased sweating

irregular breathing

nausea

pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck

pale skin

severe unusual tiredness or weakness

sweating

troubled breathing

vomiting

Rare

Black, tarry stools

bleeding gums

blood in the eyes

blood in the urine or stools

bloody stools

bluish color

blurred vision

body aches or pain

changes in skin color

cold sweats

dark urine

difficulty with swallowing

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

dry mouth

dryness or soreness of throat

ear congestion or pain

extra heartbeats

eye pain

feeling unusually cold

general tiredness and weakness

headache, severe and throbbing

hoarseness

increased urge to urinate during the night

irritation in the mouth

itching

large, hive-like swelling on face, eyelids, lips, tongue, throat, hands, legs, feet, or sex organs

light-colored stools

nasal congestion

neck pain

nervousness

no blood pressure or pulse

noisy breathing

pain

pain in the groin or genitals

pain or burning while urinating

painful or difficult urination

pinpoint red spots on the skin

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

redness and swelling of the gums

redness in the whites of the eyes

runny nose

shakiness and unsteady walk

sharp back pain just below ribs

shivering

skin rash

small clicking, bubbling, or rattling sounds in the lung when listening with a stethoscope

sneezing

sore throat

sores, ulcers, or white spots on the lips or in the mouth

stopping of heart

swelling around the eyes

swollen glands

tenderness

tender, swollen glands in the neck

troubled breathing with exertion

unconsciousness

unsteadiness, trembling, or other problems with muscle control or coordination

unusual bleeding or bruising

upper right abdominal or stomach pain

vision changes

voice changes

vomiting of blood or material that looks like coffee grounds

waking to urinate at night

yellow eyes and skin

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

Belching

feeling of indigestion

mood changes

pain in the chest below the breastbone

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

Less common

Abnormal ejaculation

bloody nose

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

decreased interest in sexual intercourse

decreased sexual performance or desire

diarrhea

difficulty having a bowel movement (stool)

excess air or gas in stomach or intestines

feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings

full feeling

general feeling of discomfort or illness

inability to have or keep an erection

increased need to urinate

joint stiffness

leg cramps or pain

loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance

nervousness

passing gas

passing urine more often

sneezing

stuffy nose

trouble sleeping

Rare

Acid or sour stomach

ankle, knee, or great toe joint pain

cracks in the skin

difficulty with moving

discouragement

excessive muscle tone

fear or nervousness

feeling sad or empty

hair loss or thinning of the hair

heartburn

increased sensitivity of the skin to sunlight

irritability

itching, pain, redness, swelling, tenderness, or warmth on the skin

lack of appetite

lack or loss of strength

loss of heat from the body

loss of interest or pleasure

loss of strength or energy

loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance

lower back or side pain

muscle pain or weakness

muscle stiffness

muscle tension or tightness

pain or burning in the throat

red, swollen skin

redness or other discoloration of the skin

scaly skin

severe sunburn

sleepiness or unusual drowsiness

sleeplessness

stomach discomfort, upset, or pain

swelling of the breasts or breast soreness in both females and males

tiredness

trouble concentrating

unable to sleep

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 Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL)

thumbs-up

Pros

Lowers risk of heart attack and stroke in people with high blood pressure

Can take it alone or with other medications to help with blood pressure or chest pain

Calcium channel blockers, such as nifedipine ER (Procardia XL), work especially well for Black people to lower blood pressure

The extended-release tablets are taken once daily

Available as a lower-cost, generic form

thumbs-down

Cons

Often causes swelling in the legs and feet

Not a good choice if you have heart failure because of risk for swelling

If you have severe heart disease, it can raise your risk of having a heart attack or worsening chest pain

The immediate-release capsule needs to be taken 3 to 4 times a day

pharmacist-tips

Pharmacist tips for Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL)

pharmacist

  • Swallow nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) tablets and capsules whole. Don't chew, divide, or crush the extended-release tablets.

    • It takes 1 to 2 weeks to see the full effects of nifedipine ER (Procardia XL). Let your provider know if you don't see an improvement in your chest pain symptoms or blood pressure after a week.

      • Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) can cause dizziness in the first few days, because it lowers your blood pressure, but your body will usually adjust. When first starting this medication or switching to a higher dose, make sure to sit or stand up slowly to avoid dizziness and risk of falling.

        • Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) can cause swelling (edema) in your feet, ankles, legs, or occasionally your hands and arms. This is usually harmless, but it doesn't usually go away with time and can be bothersome, so make sure to follow-up with your provider regularly. To help with swelling in the legs or feet, try sitting and propping your feet up for a while.

          • The nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) tablet has an outer shell that doesn't get digested, so it's normal for you to see it in your stool.

            • The immediate-release capsule form of nifedipine is rarely prescribed because it causes more side effects and is taken multiple times a day. The ER tablet form of nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) is still prescribed is still prescribed to treat chest pain (angina) or high blood pressure (hypertension) because it causes fewer side effects and is only taken once daily.

              faqs

              Frequently asked questions about Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL)

              Is nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) a first-choice option for blood pressure and chest pain?
              Calcium channel blockers (CCBs) are one of the first-choice medications for lowering blood pressure. But among the CCBs, nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) isn't as commonly prescribed as some of the others because it tend to cause more bothersome side effects, such as swelling and headaches. CCBs, like nifedipine ER (Procardia XL), are also first-choice medications for chest pain. Talk with your provider if you have more questions about your heart medications.
              How quickly does nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) work?
              When you start nifedipine ER (Procardia XL), it can take 1 to 2 weeks to see the full effect of the dose. During this time, your provider might ask you to record your blood pressure daily to see how its improving. Your provider might need to slowly adjust your nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) dose, depending on your symptoms of chest pain or blood pressure numbers.
              Can I take nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) at night?
              Check in with your provider when's the best time for your to take nifedipine ER (Procardia XL). In general, you can take nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) at any time of the day. What's most important is that you take nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) around the same time every day. Work with your provider to choose a time that's best for you and that you can remember.
              Do I need to take nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) on an empty stomach?
              You can take nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) with or without food since food won't really affect how well the medication works. A discontinued brand name of nifedipine, Adalat CC, was affected by food and thus needed to be taken on an empty stomach. If you're unsure about the best way or time to take this medication, speak with your pharmacist.
              Does nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) lower heart rate?
              Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) isn't known to cause slow heart rate as a side effect. Some CCBs, like verapamil and diltiazem (Cardizem), can lower heart rate because they affect the strength and speed of your heartbeat. Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL), on the other hand, doesn't typically have a major effect on heart rate.
              Is nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) bad for the kidneys?
              Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) isn't known to harm the kidneys. In general, taking this medication to lower blood pressure can improve kidney health. But there have been rare reports of some people (who already have kidney problems) experiencing worsening kidney function tests after starting nifedipine ER (Procardia XL), but the labs usually return to normal once they've stopped the medication. If you have kidney problems, talk with your provider.
              Is nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) safe to take during pregnancy?
              Talk with your provider if you're pregnant or thinking of becoming pregnant. Based on limited research, nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) is one of the recommended medications for treating high blood pressure in pregnancy. It's best to talk with your provider about the benefits and risks of all your medication options, so you can make the most informed choice about your health.
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              What are the risks and warnings for Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL)?

              Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) 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

              Low blood pressure

              • Risk factors: First starting nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) or changing to a higher dose | Taking beta-blocker medications

                Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) can lower your blood pressure, even if you're taking it for chest pain. For most people, the lowered blood pressure isn't much of a problem. If it drops too much, it can cause dizziness and other side effects. Typically, the effects will go away over time as your body gets used to the lowered blood pressure, but talk to your provider if the dizziness is unbearable. If you're sensitive to low blood pressure, change positions slowly, and don't sit or stand up too fast.

                risk-warning

                Risk of worsening chest pain or heart attack

                • Risk factors: Severe heart vessel (coronary artery) disease | Suddenly stopping beta-blocker medications right before starting nifedipine ER (Procardia XL)

                  In some rare cases, in people with severely diseased blood vessels in the heart, nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) can cause chest pain that's even worse or even a heart attack. This tends to happen when starting nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) treatment or changing to a higher dose. Get medical help right away if you experience worsening or crushing chest pain, radiating jaw pain, or a racing heartbeat, as these can be signs of a heart attack.

                  risk-warning

                  Risk of heart failure

                  • Risk factors: Taking beta-blocker medications | Aortic stenosis (narrowing of the aortic valve)

                    In some rare cases, nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) can cause heart failure. This is more likely to happen if you are also taking a beta-blocker medication or if one of your heart valves (the aorta valve) is abnormally narrow, a condition called aortic stenosis. Contact your provider if you experience symptoms of heart failure, such as abnormal weight gain, difficulty breathing especially when you lie down, or swelling in your legs and feet (though this could also be a normal side effect of the medication).

                    risk-warning

                    Swelling in legs and feet

                    • Risk factors: Taking higher doses of nifedipine ER (Procardia XL)

                      Swelling in the legs and feet is a common side effect of nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) and tends to happen with higher doses. This side effect is usually harmless, but let your provider know if it becomes too bothersome. Swelling in the legs and feet can also be a sign of heart failure, so make sure to follow up regularly with your provider to monitor your heart health.

                      risk-warning

                      Stomach or intestinal injury (extended-release form only)

                      • Risk factors: Narrowing in the stomach or intestines (strictures) | Any history of stomach or intestinal problems, including cancer, surgery, inflammation, or abnormally slow bowel movement | Taking medications that slow movement of food through the body

                        In some rare cases, nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) can cause blockage or an ulcer in the stomach or intestines (gut), which can be severe or even require surgery. This tends to happen to people who have a narrow part of the stomach and intestines (strictures), usually due to past injury and scarring, but it can happen to people with no history of problems. If you have any history of digestive tract problems, talk to your provider before starting this medication. Contact your provider if you experience stomach pain or bloating that doesn't go away, or if you have difficulty passing stool or gas.

                        More on Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) warnings

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                        dosage

                        Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) dosage forms

                        The average cost for 30 tablets of 30mg of Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) is $14.01 with a free GoodRx coupon. This is 58.36% off the average retail price of $33.65.
                        tablet
                        Tablet
                        DosageQuantityPrice as low asPrice per unit
                        30mg30 tablets$14.01$0.47
                        60mg90 tablets$26.97$0.30
                        90mg90 tablets$38.53$0.43

                        Typical dosing for Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL)

                        • Extended-release tablets (Procardia XL): The typical starting dose is 30 mg or 60 mg by mouth once daily. Based on your blood pressure or chest pain symptoms, your provider will adjust your dose after a couple of weeks. The maximum recommended dose is 120 mg daily, though people with angina rarely need higher than 90 mg daily.

                        • Immediate-release capsules (Procardia): The typical starting dose is 10 mg by mouth three times daily. Based on your blood pressure or chest pain symptoms, your provider will adjust your dose after a couple of weeks. The typical maintenance dose ranges from 10 mg to 20 mg three times daily. The usual maximum recommended dose is 120 mg daily total.

                        More on Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) dosage forms

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                        interactions

                        Interactions between Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) and other drugs

                        Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) 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 Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL). 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 Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) cost?

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                        Procardia XL (brand)
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                        alternatives

                        What are alternatives to Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL)?

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

                        • Chest pain (angina)

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

                        $14.01 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
                        Isosorbide mononitrate
                        Used for:
                        $29.30 Lowest GoodRx priceView Prices
                        images

                        Nifedipine ER (Procardia XL) images

                        Pink Round M 030 - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet
                        This medicine is Pink, Round Tablet Imprinted With "M 030".Pink Round M 030 - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet
                        Pink Round T011 - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet
                        This medicine is Pink, Round Tablet Imprinted With "T011".Pink Round T011 - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet
                        Yellow Round 30 - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet
                        This medicine is Yellow, Round Tablet Imprinted With "30".Yellow Round 30 - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet
                        Pink Round Ku 260 - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet
                        This medicine is Pink, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Ku 260".Pink Round Ku 260 - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet
                        Pink Round Nd 30 - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet
                        This medicine is Pink, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Nd 30".Pink Round Nd 30 - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet
                        Pink Round Nd 30 - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet
                        This medicine is Pink, Round Tablet Imprinted With "Nd 30".Pink Round Nd 30 - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet
                        Red-Brown Round 30 And B - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet
                        This medicine is Red-Brown, Round Tablet Imprinted With "30" And "B".Red-Brown Round 30 And B - Nifedipine 30mg Extended-Release Tablet

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                        References

                        Best studies we found

                        Bayer HealthCare Pharmaceuticals Inc. (2010). Adalat® CC (nifedipine) extended release tablets for oral use [package insert].

                        Brown, C. M., et al. (2014). Drug treatment of hypertension in pregnancy. Drugs.

                        Chartwell RX, LLC. (2023). Nifedipine capsule [package insert]. DailyMed.

                        View All References (4)

                        Odar-Cederlöf, I., et al. (1990). Nifedipine as an antihypertensive drug in patients with renal failure--Pharmacokinetics and effects. Journal of Internal Medicine.

                        Pfizer Laboratories Div Pfizer Inc. (2023). Procardia XL- nifedipine tablet, film coated, extended release [package insert]. DailyMed.

                        Rousan, T. A., et al. (2019). Stable angina medical therapy management guidelines: A critical review of guidelines from the European Society of Cardiology and National Institute for Health and Care Excellence. European Cardiology.

                        Snider, M. E., et al. (2008). Long-acting nifedipine in the management of the hypertensive patient. Vascular Health and Risk Management.

                        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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