Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker used in angina and hypertension by dilating blood vessels and reducing cardiac workload.
Structure of Nifedipine
- Nifedipine is a dihydropyridine derivative featuring a phenyl ring attached to a dihydropyridine core with ethyl and methoxy substituents.
- Chemical Formula: C₁₅H₁₈N₂O₆
Mode of Action
- Calcium Channel Blocking: Selectively inhibits L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle.
- Vasodilation: Causes significant peripheral vasodilation, lowering blood pressure.
- Minimal Cardiac Effects: Less impact on myocardial contractility and heart rate compared to non-dihydropyridines.
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Uses
- Hypertension: Effective in lowering systemic blood pressure.
- Angina Pectoris: Reduces chest pain by dilating coronary arteries.
- Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Enhances blood flow to extremities.
- Preterm Labor: Used off-label to inhibit uterine contractions.
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