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|Sular

Sular

Generic name: Nisoldipine
Brand names: Sular

Why is Sular prescribed?

Sular controls high blood pressure. A long-acting tablet, Sular may be used alone or in combination with other blood pressure medications.

Sular is a type of medication called a calcium channel blocker. It inhibits the flow of calcium through the smooth muscles of the heart, delaying the passage of nerve impulses, slowing down the heart, and expanding the blood vessels. This eases the heart"s workload and reduces your blood pressure.

Most important fact about Sular

You must take Sular regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Sular, and you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Sular does not cure high blood pressure, it merely keeps it under control.

How should you take Sular?

Take Sular exactly as prescribed. Swallow the tablets whole. They should not be crushed, chewed, or divided. Avoid eating high-fat meals with Sular, as the medication will not work properly. Do not take grapefruit products before or after taking Sular.

--If you miss a dose...

Take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular schedule. Never take 2 doses at the same time.

--Storage instructions...

Store at room temperature in a tight, light-resistant container. Protect from moisture.

What side effects may occur?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking Sular.

• More common side effects may include:
  Dizziness, flushing, headache, heart palpitations, sinus inflammation, sore throat, swelling of the hands and feet

Why should Sular not be prescribed?

Avoid Sular if you have ever had an allergic reaction to it, or to similar calcium channel blockers such as Plendil and Procardia.

Special warnings about Sular

If you have a heart condition or liver disease, be sure the doctor is aware of it. Sular should be used with caution.

Sular may cause an excessive drop in blood pressure, especially when you are first taking the medication or when the dosage is increased. Low blood pressure can also become a problem if you are taking other blood pressure medications. If you develop symptoms of low blood pressure such as dizziness or light-headedness, call your doctor.

If you have angina (chest pain) or clogged coronary arteries, there is a remote possibility that Sular will make the condition worse--or even trigger a heart attack--when you first start taking the drug or its dosage is increased. Your doctor should be especially cautious if you have angina, heart failure, or other heart problems, particularly if you are also taking a medication known as a beta-blocker, such as Tenormin.

Possible food and drug interactions when taking Sular

If Sular is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Sular with the following:

Atenolol (Tenormin)
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Phenytoin (Dilantin)
Quinidine (Quinidex)

Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding

The effects of Sular during pregnancy have not been adequately studied. If you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, tell your doctor immediately. It is not known whether Sular makes its way into breast milk. Your doctor will advise whether to stop taking Sular or to forgo breastfeeding.

Recommended dosage

ADULTS

Your doctor will adjust the dosage to your individual needs. The usual starting dose is 20 milligrams once a day. At weekly intervals, the doctor may make 10-milligram increases in the dosage, depending on how your blood pressure responds. For the long term, the usual dosage ranges from 20 to 40 milligrams once daily. Doses above 60 milligrams are not recommended.

OLDER ADULTS

The usual starting dose is 10 milligrams. Dosage is adjusted upward according to your needs.

CHILDREN

Safety and effectiveness have not been established.

Overdosage

Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. Although no specific information is available, extremely low blood pressure is the most likely symptom of a Sular overdose. If you suspect an overdose, seek medical attention immediately.