Adalat (Nifedipine)
Compared with: Blackmores Conceive Well Gold 28 Tablets + 28 Capsules

Adalat (Nifedipine) is a prescription calcium channel blocker used to manage high blood pressure and angina (chest pain). It works by relaxing blood vessels, improving blood flow, and reducing the heart's workload. Adalat helps prevent heart attacks and strokes and is also prescribed in certain pregnancy-related hypertension cases under strict medical supervision.

Nifedipine – available in immediate-release and extended-release (Adalat LA) formulations.
Nifedipine

Adalat LA (Long-acting formulation)

Adalat CC (Coated Controlled-release)

Procardia (Brand name in the US)

Calcium Channel Blocker (CCB)
Adalat belongs to the dihydropyridine class of calcium channel blockers (CCBs). It inhibits the influx of calcium ions through L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle and myocardium. This results in vasodilation, decreased peripheral vascular resistance, and reduced myocardial oxygen demand—effectively lowering blood pressure and controlling angina symptoms.
Adalat is indicated for the treatment of:

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Chronic stable angina pectoris

Vasospastic (Prinzmetal’s) angina

Hypertensive crisis (immediate-release form only, under hospital supervision)

Pregnancy-induced hypertension (off-label, under supervision)

Raynaud’s phenomenon (off-label use)
Hypertension (Extended-Release Adalat LA)

Initial: 30 mg to 60 mg once daily

Maintenance: Up to 90 mg once daily

Maximum: 90–120 mg/day depending on patient response

Angina

30 mg to 90 mg once daily (Adalat LA)

Immediate-release: 10–20 mg three times daily (rarely used due to risk of rapid blood pressure drop)

Pregnancy-related hypertension
Off-label dose: 10–30 mg immediate-release, used cautiously under obstetric care
General Notes
Take whole tablet with water, preferably at the same time daily
Do not crush or chew extended-release formulations
Avoid grapefruit juice (may increase nifedipine levels)
Form: Oral tablets (Immediate-release and Extended-release)

Strengths: 10 mg, 20 mg, 30 mg, 60 mg, 90 mg

Route: Oral

Legal Category: Prescription Only Medicine

Schedule: S4 (Australia)
Pregnancy: Category C – May be used in pregnancy under medical supervision (e.g., preeclampsia)

Breastfeeding: Generally considered safe; low levels in breast milk

Children: Not typically recommended

Elderly: Increased sensitivity; start at lower doses

Driving: May cause dizziness or faintness, especially when initiating therapy

Side Effects
Common:

Headache

Flushing

Dizziness

Peripheral edema (swelling in legs/feet)

Nausea

Less Common or Serious:

Hypotension

Reflex tachycardia (especially with immediate-release)

Palpitations

Gingival hyperplasia

Skin rash

Hepatic enzyme elevation
Avoid sudden discontinuation – may cause rebound hypertension or angina

Not for acute MI or unstable angina without cardiac supervision

Immediate-release form should not be used for long-term BP control

Monitor blood pressure and heart rate regularly

Caution in patients with:

Heart failure with reduced ejection fraction

Severe hepatic impairment

Aortic stenosis

Elderly patients (due to hypotension risk)
Therapeutic Class: Antihypertensive, Anti-anginal

Pharmacologic Class: Calcium Channel Blocker (Dihydropyridine)

Legal Status: Prescription Only
Grapefruit juice: Inhibits CYP3A4 and increases nifedipine levels

Beta-blockers: May enhance blood pressure-lowering effect, risk of bradycardia or heart block

CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, phenytoin): Reduce efficacy

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin): Increase blood levels

Digoxin: May alter serum levels

Magnesium sulfate (in obstetrics): Caution when co-administered—risk of hypotension
The ACTION trial and INVEST trial support the long-term safety and efficacy of calcium channel blockers like nifedipine in managing cardiovascular risks in hypertensive patients, especially with comorbid angina.

Comparison with Blackmores Conceive Well Gold
Adalat (Nifedipine) is a cardiovascular medication used to treat hypertension and angina, whereas Blackmores Conceive Well Gold is a fertility supplement that supports reproductive health. However, women preparing for pregnancy with underlying hypertension may be prescribed Adalat under close supervision. It is sometimes used off-label to manage preeclampsia or premature labor in pregnancy.

FAQs – Adalat (Nifedipine)
Q1. What is Adalat used for?
A: It is used to treat high blood pressure and angina by relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow.

Q2. Is Adalat safe in pregnancy?
A: It may be prescribed for pregnancy-related hypertension or preterm labor under strict medical supervision.

Q3. How long does it take to work?
A: Onset begins within 20 minutes (immediate-release) and within a few hours for Adalat LA. Full effect may take several days.

Q4. Can I take Adalat with food?
A: Yes. It's best taken consistently with or without food. Avoid grapefruit juice.

Q5. What should I do if I miss a dose?
A: Take it as soon as you remember. Skip the missed dose if it’s almost time for the next. Do not double the dose.

Q6. Can Adalat cause swelling in the legs?
A: Yes. Peripheral edema is a common side effect due to vasodilation.

Q7. Can I use it with other blood pressure medications?
A: Yes, but only under guidance. It's often combined with ACE inhibitors or diuretics.
ACTION Trial: Demonstrated the long-term safety of nifedipine in reducing angina episodes.

INVEST Study: Showed that calcium channel blockers are effective alternatives to beta-blockers in hypertension with coronary artery disease.

RCOG Guidelines: Support nifedipine for pregnancy-related hypertension management.
Adalat, Nifedipine, Calcium Channel Blocker, Hypertension Treatment, Angina Relief, Heart Medication, Extended Release Tablet, Blood Pressure Control, Pregnancy Safe Antihypertensive, Prescription Drug, Cardiovascular Care, EZ Chemist