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Isradipine

About isradipine

This belongs to the group of medicines known as calcium channel blockers.

Isradipine is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).

Isradipine slows the movement of calcium through cells, which has two results: (1) it decreases the speed at which the heart beats, and (2) has a widening effect on blood vessels. This combination allows blood to circulate more freely around the body, lowering blood pressure and allowing the heart to work more efficiently.

Isradipine is available in tablet form, strength 2.5mg.

It is also sometimes known as: Prescal. You may notice the use of either of these names on the packaging of your medicine.

Before taking isradipine

Before taking isradipine make sure your doctor or pharmacist knows:

  • if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breast-feeding
  • if you suffer from liver or kidney problems
  • if you have had a heart attack or suffer from any other heart problems
  • if you suffer from diabetes
  • if you have ever had an allergic reaction to this or any other medicine.
  • if you are taking any other medicines, including those available to buy without a prescription, herbal or complementary medicines.

How to take isradipine

  • Always read the manufacturer's information leaflet before beginning treatment.
  • Take isradipine exactly as directed by your doctor.
  • Try to take isradipine at the same times each day to avoid missing any doses.
  • If you do forget to take a dose, take it as soon as you remember and then continue as normal. If it is nearly time for your next dose, leave out the missed dose. Never take two doses at the same time to compensate. If in doubt speak to your doctor or pharmacist.
  • Do not stop taking isradipine without speaking to your doctor first.
  • Isradipine is for you. Never give it to others even if their condition appears to be the same as yours.
  • Never take more than the prescribed dose. If you suspect that you or someone else has taken an overdose of isradipine contact your doctor or go to the accident and emergency department of your local hospital at once. Always take the container with you even if it is empty.

Getting the most from your treatment

  • Before taking any 'over-the-counter' medicines, check with your pharmacist which medicines are safe for you to take alongside isradipine.
  • Keep your regular appointments with your doctor so your progress can be checked.
  • Do not drink grapefruit juice while you are being treated with isradipine.
  • Isradipine may cause dizziness. Make sure you know how you react to this medicine before driving, operating machinery or doing any other jobs which could be dangerous if you were not fully alert.

    Can isradipine cause problems?

    As well as their useful effects all medicines can cause unwanted side effects. Side effects of isradipine usually go away a few days after starting treatment. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if any of the following side effects continue or become troublesome:

    headache, redness of the face, dizziness, palpitations, fast or fluttery heartbeat, swollen legs and ankles

    rarely skin rash, weight gain, tiredness, tummy pain.

    If you experience any other worrying or troublesome side effects, which you think may be due to this medicine, discuss them with your doctor or pharmacist.

    How to store isradipine

    • Keep all medicines out of the reach of children.
    • Store in a cool, dry place, away from direct heat and light.
    • Never keep out of date or unwanted medicines. Discard them safely, out of the reach of children, or take them to your local pharmacist who will dispose of unwanted medicines for you.

    • © EMIS and Cegedim Pharmacy Services Ltd 2006   Updated: 14/03/2006   

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