Tensipine MR

What is it?

A class II calcium antagonist available as sustained-release, pink tablets in 2 strengths containing 10mg and 20mg of nifedipine.

Medical Uses

Prevention of angina, treatment of stable angina, mild to moderate high blood pressure.

Dosage

Adults, 10mg every 12 hours at first then 10 to 40mg, 12 hourly, as maintenance. Special cure: elderly patients, seriously low blood pressure, heart failure, weak heart, liver disorders, kidney dialysis, diabetes.

Avoid Use

Children, pregnancy, breastfeeding, within one month of heart attack, unstable angina, narrowed aorta, heart shock, within 4 weeks of heart attack.

Possible Drug and Food Interactions

Digoxin, intravenous magnesium sulphate, antihypertensives, diltiazem, cimetidine, grapefruit juice, quinidine, rifampicin.

Known Side Effects

Fluid retention, skin effects, tiredness, headache, muscle pain, increased urination, rapid heartbeat, low blood pressure, abnormal enlargement of breasts, tremor, numbness/tingling/'pins and needles' sensation, overgrowth of gum tissue, gastrointestinal upset, flushes. In rare cases, mood swings, allergic-type jaundice. Drug should be withdrawn in event of heart attack or ischaemic pain.

Manufacturer

Genus.