3. Isradipine

Isradipine

  • Do not drink grapefruit juice while you are on isradipine.
  • When you first start taking isradipine you may experience headache, flushing and palpitations. These effects do not usually last for longer than the first few days.
Type of medicine Calcium-channel blocker
Used for Hypertension
Also called Prescal®
Available as Tablets

Isradipine is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). It works by relaxing blood vessels which lowers the blood pressure.

Before taking isradipine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • If you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding.
  • If you have liver or kidney problems.
  • If you have had a heart attack less than one month ago or have any other heart problems.
  • If you have porphyria (a rare blood disorder).
  • If you are taking other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal and complementary medicines.
  • If you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
  • Before starting this treatment, read the manufacturer's printed information leaflet from inside the pack.
  • Take isradipine exactly as your doctor has told you. It is usually taken twice each day, with the doses preferably being 12 hours apart.
  • You may take your doses before, during or after food.
  • Do not drink grapefruit juice while you are on isradipine. This is because a chemical in grapefruit juice increases the amount of isradipine in your bloodstream. This makes side-effects more likely.
  • Try to take isradipine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
  • If you forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember unless it is nearly time for your next dose, in which case leave out the missed dose. Do not take two doses together to make up for a forgotten dose.
  • Try to keep your regular appointments with your doctor. This is so your progress can be monitored.
  • If you buy any medicines, always check with a pharmacist that they are safe to take with your other medicines.
  • If you are having an operation or dental treatment, tell the person carrying out the treatment that you are taking isradipine.
  • Suddenly stopping treatment with isradipine may cause problems. Your doctor may want you to reduce your dose gradually if this is necessary.

Along with their useful effects, most medicines can cause unwanted side-effects although not everyone experiences them. These usually improve as your body adjusts to the new medicine, but speak with your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side-effects continue or become troublesome.

Common side-effects - these affect less than 1 in 10 people who take this medicine What can I do if I experience this
Abdominal discomfort Stick to simple or bland foods
Palpitations, dizziness, flushing These may occur when you first start treatment. If they are severe or continue for more than a week or so, speak with your doctor. Do not drive or use tools or machines while you feel dizzy
Tiredness, swollen feet or ankles Take plenty of rest and raise your legs onto a low stool when you are sitting
Headache Ask your pharmacist to recommend a suitable painkiller. If the headache continues, speak with your doctor
Shortness of breath, increased need to pass urine, rash If any of these become troublesome, speak with your doctor

If you experience any other symptoms which you think may be due to this medicine, speak with your doctor or pharmacist.

  • Keep all medicines out of the reach and sight of children.
  • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.

  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of this medicine, go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Take the container with you, even if it is empty.
  • This medicine is for you. Never give it to other people even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Take them to your local pharmacy which will dispose of them for you.
  • If you have any questions about this medicine ask your pharmacist.
Provide feedback

Further reading & references

  • British National Formulary; 62nd Edition (Sep 2011) British Medical Association and Royal Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain, London
  • Manufacturer's PIL, Prescal®; Manufacturer's PIL, Prescal®, Novartis Pharmaceuticals UK Ltd, electronic Medicines Compendium. Dated September 2008.
Original Author: Helen Allen Current Version: Peer Reviewer: Dr Adrian Bonsall
Last Checked: 20/02/2012 Document ID: 3483  Version: 23 © EMIS

Disclaimer: This article is for information only and should not be used for the diagnosis or treatment of medical conditions. EMIS has used all reasonable care in compiling the information but make no warranty as to its accuracy. Consult a doctor or other health care professional for diagnosis and treatment of medical conditions. For details see our conditions.

The Information Standard - certified member

The authors and editors of this article create up to date content reflecting reliable research evidence, guidance and best clinical practice. Learn more

Advertisements