NICARDIPINE (Cardene)

Classification:Therapeutic: antianginals, antihypertensives;Pharmacologic: calcium channel blockers.

Indications Management of: Hypertension, Angina pectoris,Vasospastic (Prinzmetals) angina.Unlabeleduses:Management of CHF.

Mechanism of Action Inhibits the transport of calcium into myocardial and vascular smooth muscle cells, resulting ininhibition of excitation-contraction couplingand subsequent contraction. Therapeutic Effects: Systemic vasodilation resulting in decreased blood pressure. Coronary vasodilationresulting in decreased frequency and severity ofattacks of angina.

Contraindications/PrecautionsContraindicated in: Hypersensitivity; Sick sinus syndrome; 2nd- or 3rd-degree AV block (unless an artificial pacemaker is in place); BP