Nitrendipine

Products

Nitrendipine is commercially available in tablet form (Baypress / – mite). It was approved in many countries since 1985. In 2017, its distribution was discontinued.

Structure and properties

Nitrendipine (C18H20N2O6, Mr = 360.4 g/mol) is a dihydropyridine and a racemate. It exists as a yellow crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water. The compound is sensitive to UV light and exhibits polymorphism.

Effects

Nitrendipine (ATC C08CA08) has antihypertensive properties. Effects are due to blockade of calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle and last up to 24 hours.

Indications

For the treatment of hypertension.

Dosage

According to the professional information. The tablets are taken once or twice daily.

Contraindications

  • Hypersensitivity
  • Unstable angina
  • Shortly after a heart attack
  • Pregnancy
  • Combination with rifampicin

Full precautions can be found in the drug label.

Interactions

Nitrendipine is metabolized by CYP3A4. Appropriate drug-drug interactions with CYP inhibitors and inducers are possible. Nitrendipine should not be administered with grapefruit juice.

Adverse effects

The most common possible adverse effects include peripheral edema, anxiety reactions, fatigue, malaise, flatulence, nausea, headache, and palpable heartbeats. Many of the side effects are a result of vasodilatation.