Clevidipine is a calcium channel blocker used to treat hypertension. Hypertension adds to the workload of the heart and arteries which can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure.
When blood pressure is controlled, these problems may less likely occur. This drug works by affecting the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels which results to blood vessels relaxation and increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart while reducing its workload. This drug requires a prescription.
Before taking this drug, the risks and benefits for your body should be discussed with your healthcare provider. Inform your healthcare provider for any allergic reactions to these drugs or any other drugs, foods, dyes, preservatives, or animals.
Carefully read the label of non-prescription drugs for any possible allergic reaction or contraindications. Studies have not been performed on the relationship of age to the effects of clevidipine in the pediatric and geriatric populations that would limit its use while safety and efficacy have not been established.
Adjustment in the doses of this drug may be required in the elderly since they are more likely to have age-related kidney, liver, or heart problems. Adverse effects have been reported in animal studies but there are no adequate studies in pregnant women or animals.
Infant risk is still undetermined when using this medication during breastfeeding due to inadequate studies. Discuss with your healthcare professional the potential risks and benefits before taking this drug while breastfeeding. Drugs should not be taken together to prevent any interactions but in necessary cases inquire your healthcare provider regarding the adjustments in dosage or any other necessary precautions to prevent any unwanted side effects.
Inform your healthcare professional if you are taking any other drugs such as Clopidogrel, Dantrolene, Lacosamide, or Indinavir. Intake of specific food or using alcohol or tobacco with magnesium is associated with an increased risk of certain side effects.
Your healthcare professional can give you special instructions about the use of food, alcohol, or tobacco. Inform your healthcare provider for any other medical problems such as aortic stenosis, lipid metabolism problems, heart failure or hypotension.
Side effects may vary for each individual and prompt medical attention should be given if they occur.
Inform you healthcare provider immediately if you experience symptoms such as agitation, confusion, decreased urine, output, depression, dizziness, fainting, fast or irregular heartbeat, headache, hostility, irritability, lethargy, loss of consciousness, muscle twitching, nausea, rapid weight gain, seizures, stupor, swelling of the face, ankles, or hands, unusual tiredness or weakness, chest pain or discomfort, difficult or labored breathing pain or discomfort in the arms, jaw, back, or neck, shortness of breath, stopping of the heart, sweating, tightness in the chest, unconsciousness, very low blood pressure or pulse, vomiting, or wheezing.
If any of the following side effects persists, or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional.
If any of the following side effects persists, or are inconvenient, or if you notice any other effects, or if you have any questions about them, consult with your health care professional. Report any side effects to the FDA hotline at 1-800-FDA-1088.
