Calcigard

Calcigard: description, application and side effects

Calcigard is a drug that belongs to the group of calcium channel blockers of the dihydropyridine group. The drug is manufactured by Torrent Pharmaceuticals in India and has the international name Nifedipine. Calcigard is widely used for the treatment of arterial hypertension, hypertensive crisis, prevention of angina attacks (including Prinzmetal's angina), hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, Raynaud's disease, pulmonary hypertension and broncho-obstructive syndrome.

Calcigard is available in a variety of dosage forms, including 5 mg and 10 mg capsules and 20 mg retard tablets. The active substance is nifedipine.

However, like any drug, Calcigard has its contraindications and side effects. Contraindications include hypersensitivity to the active substance, acute period of myocardial infarction (first 8 days), cardiogenic shock, severe aortic stenosis, heart failure in the stage of decompensation, severe arterial hypotension, tachycardia, pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Calcigard may cause unwanted side effects, especially with long-term use or if the recommended dose is exceeded. These may include dizziness, headache, feeling hot, palpitations, tachycardia, hypotension, angina-like pain, and sensory disturbances in the arms and legs. Gastrointestinal problems may also occur, including constipation, nausea, diarrhea and gum hyperplasia. In addition, Calcigard may cause allergic reactions such as itching, urticaria and rashes.

Interaction of Calcigard with other medicines may also cause undesirable effects. For example, an increase in the hypotensive effect can be observed when combined with nitrates, diuretics, beta-blockers, tricyclic antidepressants, fentanyl and alcohol. Calcigard may also increase the activity of theophylline, decrease the renal clearance of digoxin, and increase the bioavailability of cephalosporins.

Overall, Calcigard is an effective drug for the treatment of hypertension and other diseases of the cardiovascular system. However, before using it, you should consult your doctor to exclude the possibility of contraindications and minimize the risk of side effects. Also, do not exceed the recommended dose and take Calcigard together with other medications without consulting a doctor.