What is the brand name for Nifedipine?
The brand name for Nifedipine is Procardia.
PTCE Top 200 · #120
Nifedipine
Procardia
Nifedipine is the generic name for the brand-name drug Procardia. It is a calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine) used to treat hypertension, angina. On the PTCE Top 200 drug list, Nifedipine ranks #120 and is one of the most frequently tested cardiovascular medications — commonly quizzed on its brand–generic pair, drug class, and key side effects.
| Generic name | Nifedipine |
|---|---|
| Brand name(s) | Procardia |
| Drug class | Calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine) |
| Class group | Cardiovascular |
| Common use | hypertension, angina |
| DEA schedule | Unscheduled |
| Availability | Prescription only (Rx) |
What is Nifedipine used for?
Dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker used to treat hypertension and angina (chest pain).
What drug class is Nifedipine?
Nifedipine is a Calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine) in the Cardiovascular group. Knowing the class is the fastest way to predict its uses, side effects, and the brand↔generic pairs the PTCE tests.
Common side effects of Nifedipine
- arrow_rightPeripheral edema
- arrow_rightHeadache
- arrow_rightFlushing
- arrow_rightDizziness
- arrow_rightPalpitations
- arrow_rightNausea
Major interactions
- arrow_rightStrong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., clarithromycin, azoles) can ↑ nifedipine levels → hypotension
- arrow_rightCYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin) can ↓ effect
- arrow_rightGrapefruit juice may ↑ levels—avoid if advised
- arrow_rightAdditive hypotension with other antihypertensives
Is Nifedipine a controlled substance?
No. Nifedipine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
How to remember Nifedipine (PTCE mnemonic)
PRO-cardia PROtects with vasodilation — NIFE-dipine is DHP CCB. Ankle edema, flushing, headache, reflex tachycardia; ER form only (IR = MI risk).
lightbulb
PTCE exam tip
Another -dipine DHP calcium channel blocker — extended-release Procardia XL must not be crushed, and nifedipine / nicardipine is a LASA pair.
Nifedipine FAQ
What is Nifedipine used for?
Nifedipine is used to treat hypertension, angina. Dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker used to treat hypertension and angina (chest pain).
What drug class is Nifedipine?
Nifedipine is a Calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine) (Cardiovascular group).
Is Nifedipine a controlled substance?
No. Nifedipine is not a federally controlled substance (it is unscheduled by the DEA).
Related drugs in the Cardiovascular group
Drill Nifedipine the way the PTCE asks it
RxReflex turns the Top 200 drugs into fast flashcard rounds, a guided Learn path, pharmacy math, and 40+ cheat sheets. Free to start.
Last reviewed June 25, 2026. Educational use only — not medical advice. Verify clinical specifics with your pharmacist or a current label source such as DailyMed. RxReflex is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Pharmacy Technician Certification Board (PTCB).