Adalat is a medication used to treat blood pressure and reduce the workload of the heart for specific diagnoses related to other forms of heart disease.The medication may also be used to control heart rhythm. It belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers. The generic name is nifedipine. Calcium channel blockers are associated with the same side effects, regardless of the name. The blood pressure-lowering medication comes in different doses. Side effects of Adalat could depend on the need for dose adjustment.
Common Side Effects
The most common side effect of Adalat is swelling in the ankles or legs. The side effects of leg swelling occur because calcium channel blockers increase circulation by dilating the superficial blood vessels, bringing more fluid to the extremities. Swelling associated with Adalat is not dangerous, but many patients find it intolerable. Sometimes, just reducing the dose can help. Your physician will continue to monitor your response to the medication, and decreases in dosing should be guided by your health care provider.
Less Common Side Effects
Chest pain and headache are also side effects associated with Adalat. The highest dose of Adalat is 90mg. Chest pain and headache was reported in trials in fewer than 3 percent of study participants Other less common side effects reported include rash, dizziness, cramping in the legs, nosebleed, nasal inflammation, urinary frequency and impotence.
Very Uncommon Side Effects
Uncommon side effects of Adalat related to the heart, gastrointestinal system, muscles, urinary system and metabolism have been reported. Irregular heartbeat from atrial fibrillation, slow heartbeat, cardiac arrest (cessation of heartbeat), low blood pressure, extra heartbeats, fast heart rate, palpitations and low blood pressure when standing are associated side effects of Adalat that occurred less than 1 percent of the time during studies. Allergy and sensitivity to light are also rare side effects. Dry mouth, upset stomach, diarrhea, abdominal pain, excessive gas and gastrointestinal bleeding are also adverse events experienced by a minority of patients. Muscle aches and joint pain are possible but seldom reported. Insomnia, confusion, anxiety and agitation might be a side effect of Adalat but should always be evaluated for other causes. Adalat side effects also include cough and difficulty breathing but may be related to an allergic reaction. Double vision, ringing in the ears and other visual changes should be reported to your doctor as a potential side effect of Adalat.
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