Barnidipine is a calcium channel blocker drug prescribed for high blood pressure, or hypertension. It works to relax the blood vessels and lower blood pressure. There are a number of side effects associated with this drug and certain people tend to have more negative reactions than others. Some people may tolerate the drug, but drug will not have the appropriate blood pressure lowering effect. It may cause multiple side effects in others yet manage to lower their blood pressure appropriately.
Calcium channel blockers work to stem the flow of calcium through the calcium channels. They are not without side effects and some of these can include palpitations, lethargy, flushing and impotence. People with low blood pressure and heart problems should inform their doctors before taking barnidipine. Certain herbal remedies and foods may also cause negative interactions to occur. Other side effects such as gastrointestinal disorders, eye pain, abnormal liver functions and fever are also linked to barnidipine.
The typical initial dosage of barnidipine is 5 to 10 mg once a day. This dosage can be increased depending on the patient’s response to the medication. The usual maintenance dosage is 10 to 20 mg a day. The drug can be taken with or without food. It is important not to take more or less than prescribed by a physician as this could lead to inaccurate blood pressure readings.
Calcium channel blockers are effective in treating the elderly suffering from high blood pressure, yet they are also known to have a high mortality rate over an extended period of time. Barnidipine is effective in keeping large blood vessels supple. Rigid vessels are one of the most common reasons for high systolic blood pressure in the elderly. The systolic number refers to the top number when the heart is contracting. Calcium channel blockers are thought to be more effective in lowering blood pressure than beta blockers.
It is important to take barnidipine at the same time each day for it to be effective. The medication should be swallowed whole and not crushed or chewed. It is not necessary to double dose if a dosage is missed. If it is still many hours from the next dosage, then it is recommended to go ahead and take the medication immediately. If it is closer to the time of the next dose, then it is better to skip a dose and wait until the next day to continue taking the medication.