Depicor 5mg Tablet (nifedipine): Complete Medicine Guide
Clinical Reference Standards: CDSCO (Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation), Indian Pharmacopoeia (IP) & WHO | Last Updated: September 2026
When to Call Your Doctor IMMEDIATELY
- Severe dizziness or fainting
- Chest pain that worsens or does not go away
- Swelling of face, lips, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
- Irregular or very fast heartbeat
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
- Severe abdominal pain
If experiencing severe symptoms, call emergency services immediately.
What is nicardia 5 capsule used for?
This medicine contains nifedipine 5 mg, a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure and angina. It works by relaxing blood vessels. Take it exactly as prescribed, and avoid grapefruit juice.
- Generic Name: Nifedipine (5mg)
- Manufacturer: J B Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals Ltd
- Form: Allopathy
- Pregnancy Category: Consult doctor
- Prescription Required: Yes
🇮🇳 nicardia 5 capsule के बारे में (Hindi Summary)
उपयोग: यह दवा निफेडिपिन 5 मिलीग्राम की टैबलेट है, जिसका उपयोग उच्च रक्तचाप (हाई ब्लड प्रेशर) और एनजाइना (सीने में दर्द) के इलाज के लिए किया जाता है। यह रक्त वाहिकाओं को आराम देकर चौड़ा करती है, जिससे रक्तचाप कम होता है और हृदय को रक्त की आपूर्ति बेहतर होती है। यह दवा रेनॉड्स फेनोमेनन और समय से पहले प्रसव को रोकने के लिए भी कभी-कभी उपयोग की जाती है। इसे डॉक्टर के निर्देशानुसार ही लें।
साइड इफेक्ट्स: आम दुष्प्रभावों में सिरदर्द, चेहरे पर गर्मी लगना, चक्कर आना और पैरों में सूजन शामिल हैं। ये आमतौर पर हल्के होते हैं और कुछ समय में ठीक हो जाते हैं। कभी-कभी धड़कन तेज होना, जी मिचलाना या कब्ज हो सकती है। गंभीर दुष्प्रभाव दुर्लभ हैं, लेकिन अगर आपको बेहोशी, तेज धड़कन या चेहरे, होंठ या गले में सूजन हो, तो तुरंत डॉक्टर से मिलें।
सुरक्षा सलाह: इस दवा को डॉक्टर के बताए अनुसार ही लें। टैबलेट को चबाएं या तोड़ें नहीं। अंगूर का जूस पीने से बचें, क्योंकि इससे दवा का स्तर बढ़ सकता है। बैठने या लेटने से उठते समय धीरे-धीरे उठें। अगर आप गर्भवती हैं, गर्भधारण की योजना बना रही हैं या स्तनपान करा रही हैं, तो डॉक्टर को बताएं। जब तक आपको पता न चले कि यह दवा आप पर कैसा असर करती है, तब तक वाहन न चलाएं। नियमित रूप से रक्तचाप की जांच कराएं।
💊 nicardia 5 capsule Uses & Benefits
[{"condition":"Hypertension","description":"Lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels, reducing the risk of stroke and heart attack.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Angina pectoris","description":"Relieves chest pain by improving blood flow to the heart and reducing its workload.","evidence":"Well-established"},{"condition":"Raynaud's phenomenon","description":"Helps reduce frequency and severity of attacks by improving circulation to fingers and toes.","evidence":"Moderate"},{"condition":"Preterm labor","description":"Used to relax uterine muscles and delay premature birth, under specialist supervision.","evidence":"Moderate"}]
Off-label uses: [{"condition":"Anal fissure","description":"Topical nifedipine may help heal anal fissures by relaxing smooth muscle.","evidence":"Limited"},{"condition":"High-altitude pulmonary edema","description":"May be used to prevent or treat this condition in some settings.","evidence":"Limited"}]
Primary treatment for: Hypertension
Also treats: Angina pectoris, Raynaud's phenomenon
📋 Drug Information
| Generic Name(s) | Nifedipine (5mg) |
| Brand Name | nicardia 5 capsule |
| Manufacturer | J B Chemicals and Pharmaceuticals Ltd |
| Packaging / Form | Varies by brand (Allopathy) |
| Therapeutic Class | CARDIAC |
| Action Class | Calcium channel blockers- Dihydropyridines (DHP) |
| Route of Administration | Oral |
| Storage | Store at room temperature (15-30°C) in a dry place, away from direct sunlight. |
| Shelf Life | 24 months from the date of manufacture. |
| WHO Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
| ICMR Guideline | Not established from the available information. |
👨⚕️ Doctor's Practical Tips
Evidence-based practical advice from experienced clinicians
🔍 Is This Medicine Right for Your Symptom?
Educational reference. Always consult a doctor for diagnosis.
🔬 How This Medicine Works (Pharmacology)
Pharmacokinetics
How It Works
This medicine blocks calcium channels in the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels. By inhibiting calcium influx, it causes relaxation and widening of arteries, leading to reduced peripheral resistance and lower blood pressure. It also dilates coronary arteries, improving oxygen supply to the heart muscle.
Mechanism Steps
💡 How to Take nicardia 5 capsule
Strength: Nifedipine 5 mg immediate-release tablet
Dosage Information
| Adult Dosage | The usual starting dose for hypertension is 5 mg three times daily, but your doctor may adjust based on response. For angina, the dose may be 5-10 mg three times daily. Dose must be individualized by a qualified clinician based on indication, age, weight, renal and hepatic function. |
| Pediatric Dosage | Pediatric dosing is not established from available information. Consult a pediatrician. |
| Elderly Dosage | Elderly patients may be more sensitive to the effects. Start with a lower dose and monitor closely. |
| Renal Impairment | No specific dose adjustment is usually required, but use with caution in severe renal impairment. |
| Hepatic Impairment | Dose reduction may be necessary in patients with liver impairment. Consult your doctor. |
| Maximum Daily Dose | The maximum recommended daily dose is 30 mg for immediate-release tablets, but this may vary based on indication and patient factors. |
Dosage Timeline
🍽️ Food Timing Guide
⏰ What to Do If You Miss a Dose
⚠️ Side Effects of nicardia 5 capsule
✅ Common Side Effects
🚨 Serious Side Effects
⚠️ Rare Side Effects
Consult your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms.
🔬 Drug Interactions
| Drug | Severity | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Ketoconazole | Major | |
| Beta-blockers | Major | |
| Grapefruit juice | Major | |
| Digoxin | Moderate | |
| Cimetidine | Moderate | |
| Antacids | Minor |
🚨 Major Interactions
- CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin)
- Beta-blockers
- Grapefruit juice
⚡ Moderate Interactions
- Digoxin
- Cimetidine
🍷 Alcohol Interaction
Alcohol may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect and increase dizziness. Avoid or limit alcohol consumption.
🔎 Check Your Other Medicines
Educational tool. Always confirm with your doctor or pharmacist.
🛡️ Safety & Warnings
🚫 Contraindications
["Known hypersensitivity to nifedipine","Cardiogenic shock","Severe aortic stenosis","Unstable angina (unless under specialist care)","Within 4 weeks of myocardial infarction"]
⚠️ Warnings & Precautions
["May cause dizziness; avoid driving until you know how it affects you.","Avoid grapefruit juice.","Use with caution in elderly and those with liver or kidney disease.","Do not stop abruptly without medical advice.","Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding."]
🤱 Lactation Safety
Nifedipine is excreted in breast milk in small amounts. It is generally considered compatible with breastfeeding, but consult your doctor.
💊 Overdose Management
Overdose may cause severe hypotension, tachycardia, and loss of consciousness. Seek immediate medical attention. Treatment is supportive and may include activated charcoal, intravenous fluids, and vasopressors.
⏰ Missed Dose
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Additional Safety Advice
Always take this medicine exactly as prescribed. Do not crush or chew the tablet unless your doctor advises otherwise. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking this medicine, as it can increase the drug levels in your body. Stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position to prevent dizziness. Inform your doctor if you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding. Do not drive or operate heavy machinery until you know how this medicine affects you. Keep all follow-up appointments and monitor your blood pressure regularly. Store this medicine at room temperature, away from moisture and direct sunlight. Keep it out of reach of children.
👴 Special Considerations for Elderly
💡 For Patients Above 65
Elderly patients may be more sensitive to blood pressure lowering effects. Start with a lower dose and monitor closely for dizziness and falls.
🤰 Pregnancy Planning (TTC)
Consult your doctor before planning pregnancy. This medicine is generally considered safe in pregnancy but requires monitoring.
🏥 Post-Surgery Considerations
Inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist about this medicine. It may need to be temporarily stopped before surgery.
🦷 Dental Procedures
Inform your dentist about this medicine. It may cause gum swelling, so maintain good oral hygiene.
💚 Lifestyle Tips for Better Results
🏋️ Exercise Considerations
Avoid strenuous exercise initially as it may cause dizziness. Stay hydrated and rise slowly after exercise.
🥗 Diet Recommendations
💼 Impact on Daily Work & Life
May cause dizziness or drowsiness initially. Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Most people can continue their normal activities with caution.
🛑 When to Stop This Medicine
Do not stop this medicine without consulting your doctor. If you experience severe side effects, contact your doctor immediately for advice.
📅 Long-Term Use Effects
Long-term use is generally safe when monitored. Regular check-ups for blood pressure, heart rate, and liver function are advised. Some patients may develop gum swelling or ankle edema. Do not stop without medical advice.
🌿 Non-Medicine Approaches
These can complement medicine but do not replace prescribed treatment.
Diet, exercise, and stress reduction can help manage blood pressure.
Evidence: Well-establishedACE inhibitors, ARBs, or diuretics may be alternatives.
Evidence: Well-established💉 Vaccination Considerations
💉 If You're Getting Vaccinated
No specific interactions with vaccines. Continue routine vaccinations as advised by your doctor.
📦 Storage Guide
✅ DO
Store at room temperature (15-30°C)
❌ DON'T
Do not refrigerate unless specified
✅ DO
Keep in original container
❌ DON'T
Do not transfer to unmarked containers
✅ DO
Keep away from direct sunlight
❌ DON'T
Do not store in bathroom cabinet
✈️ Traveling with This Medicine
Carry this medicine in its original packaging with a copy of your prescription. Store at room temperature and protect from moisture. If traveling across time zones, consult your doctor about dose timing. Keep enough supply for the entire trip. Check customs regulations for carrying prescription medicines.
💰 Cost Analysis & Savings
👥 Real Patient Stories
Educational, anonymized scenarios. Individual results may vary.
💬 Questions Patients Often Ask
A: This medicine starts working within 20-30 minutes, but full effects on blood pressure may take a few days.
A: No, do not stop without consulting your doctor. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, and stopping can cause a dangerous rise.
A: Avoid grapefruit juice and alcohol. Be cautious when driving until you know how it affects you.
🤔 Common Patient Concerns
🔄 Substitutes for nicardia 5 capsule
View AllAlternative brands with exact same active ingredient:
-
myogard 5mg tabletRPG Life Sciences Ltd ₹6.21 68.8% CHEAPER
-
nifelate 5mg capsuleCipla Ltd ₹7.17 64% CHEAPER
-
cardules 5mg capsuleAbbott ₹7.50 62.4% CHEAPER
-
depicor 5mg tabletMerck Ltd ₹9.08 54.4% CHEAPER
-
angiblock 5mg capsuleAlkem Laboratories Ltd ₹9.55 52.1% CHEAPER
Medical Note: Always consult your doctor before switching medications.
🛑 Myths vs. Facts
- Myth: This medicine can be stopped once blood pressure is normal.
Fact: High blood pressure often has no symptoms, and stopping this medicine can cause a dangerous rise in blood pressure. Continue as prescribed. - Myth: This medicine damages the kidneys.
Fact: This medicine is used to protect kidneys from damage caused by high blood pressure. It does not damage kidneys when used appropriately.
🔄 Alternative Options
Generic Alternatives
- Nifedipine 5 mg immediate-release tablet
Brand Alternatives
- Depicor 5mg Tablet