Don’t Rush to Crush 3rd Edition Update September 2020 401

NIFEDIPINECalcium channel blocker, dihydropyridine

Effect of food Can be given without regard to food. Avoid grapefruit juice.1Absorption Some formulations that are labelled “prolonged-release” or “retard” may be halved or

crushed. Contact a pharmacist or medicines information service for advice before proceeding. Do not confuse with the modified-release formulation which must not be crushed.Switching from the modified-release tablet to another formulation of nifedipine may cause tachycardia and worsening angina and may not be a suitable alternative for some indications.2

Other May cause dry mouth.1

Do not crush or break the modified-release tablet.1,3 It is not suitable to give by enteral feeding tube. Contact the prescriber to consider switching to amlodipine as it can be dispersed in water and is given once daily..

Do not crush or break the modified-release tablet.1,5 It is not suitable for people with swallowing difficulties. Contact the prescriber to consider switching to amlodipine or lercanidipine.

REFERENCES:1. Product information. Available from www.tga.gov.au. Accessed 28/07/20.2. Nifedipine. In Drug information, Lexicomp: UpToDate 2016.3. Schier JG, Howland MA, Hoffman RS, Nelson LS. Fatality from administration of labetolol and crushed extended-release nifedipine. Ann Pharmacother 2003;

37: 1420-3.

Availability1 Brand name Quick guide

Modified-release tablet20 mg, 30 mg, 60 mg

Other formulations may be available through the Special Access Scheme

Adalat Oros, Addos XR, APO-Nifedipine XR

What to do for people with enteral feeding tubes

What to do for people with swallowing difficulties