DARAT

Do not use Darat in people with the following conditions:

• Allergy: Nifedipine should not be used in individuals who have a known hypersensitivity or allergy to nifedipine or any of its components. Allergic reactions can range from mild symptoms like rash or itching to more severe reactions like difficulty breathing or swelling of the face, lips, or throat.
• Hypotension: Nifedipine can cause a drop in blood pressure, so it is contraindicated in individuals with severe hypotension (low blood pressure). Using nifedipine in such cases can lead to further lowering of blood pressure, which may result in dizziness, fainting, or other related symptoms.
• Cardiogenic shock: Nifedipine is contraindicated in individuals with cardiogenic shock, a condition where the heart is unable to pump enough blood to meet the body’s needs. Nifedipine can further compromise the heart’s function and worsen the condition.
• Acute myocardial infarction: Nifedipine should not be used in the acute phase of a myocardial infarction (heart attack). It can potentially worsen the condition or cause adverse effects on the heart.
• Aortic stenosis: Nifedipine is contraindicated in individuals with significant aortic stenosis, a condition characterized by the narrowing of the aortic valve in the heart. Nifedipine can exacerbate the obstruction and impair blood flow through the aorta.

Darat may have the following side effects:

• Flushing: Nifedipine can cause flushing, which is characterized by a sudden reddening and warming of the skin. This is due to the dilation of blood vessels.
• Headache: Headaches are a commonly reported side effect of nifedipine. If the headaches persist or become severe, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider.
• Dizziness: Some individuals may experience dizziness or lightheadedness when taking nifedipine. It is advised to avoid activities that require mental alertness, such as driving or operating machinery, if you experience these symptoms.
• Swelling: Nifedipine can cause swelling in the ankles and feet, a condition known as peripheral edema. This occurs due to the dilation of blood vessels and increased fluid accumulation in the tissues.
• Nausea and stomach upset: Nifedipine may cause gastrointestinal symptoms such as nausea, stomach pain, or heartburn. Taking medication with food can help alleviate these symptoms.
• Fatigue: Some individuals may experience fatigue or weakness while taking nifedipine. If these symptoms persist or worsen, it is advisable to consult your healthcare provider.
• Rapid heartbeat: Nifedipine may cause a rapid or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia). If you experience any significant changes in your heart rate or rhythm, it is important to seek medical attention.

Keep in mind that your physician has recommended this drug since he or she has known that the advantage to you is more noteworthy than the risk of adverse reactions. Many individuals utilizing this medicine don’t have serious side effects.

A serious allergy to this medication is uncommon. In any case, seek emergency medical help if you see any manifestations of a serious allergic response, including a rash, tingling or swelling particularly of the face or tongue or throat, dizziness or difficulty in breathing.

This is not a complete list of side effects. If you see other effects not recorded above, contact your physician or pharmacist.

Precautions

Take extra caution in patients with the following medical conditions:

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: If you are pregnant or breastfeeding, it is crucial to discuss the potential risks and benefits of using nifedipine with your healthcare provider. Nifedipine can pass into breast milk and may have effects on the infant, so careful consideration is necessary before using this medication.
• Liver or kidney problems: Individuals with liver or kidney problems may require dose adjustments or close monitoring while taking nifedipine. Your healthcare provider will assess your condition and determine the appropriate dosage and monitoring plan.
• Heart conditions: Nifedipine is primarily used to treat high blood pressure and certain heart conditions. However, if you have certain heart conditions, such as congestive heart failure or a recent heart attack, the use of nifedipine may require careful monitoring or may be contraindicated. It is essential to inform your healthcare provider about your heart condition before starting nifedipine.
• Grapefruit juice: Avoid consuming grapefruit juice or grapefruit products while taking nifedipine. Grapefruit can interact with nifedipine and increase the concentration of the medication in your body, potentially leading to an increased risk of side effects.
• Other medications: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, supplements, and herbal products. Nifedipine may interact with certain medications, such as other blood pressure medications, beta-blockers, or medications metabolized by specific liver enzymes. Your healthcare provider will consider these interactions and adjust your medication regimen accordingly.
• Allergies: If you have known allergies or hypersensitivity to other medications, it is important to inform your healthcare provider. They can assess the potential cross-reactivity or risk of allergic reactions when prescribing nifedipine.

Prior to taking this medicine, tell your physician or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, or if you have some other hypersensitivities. This drug may contain inert ingredients which can cause unfavorable side effects or different issues. Talk with your pharmacist for more information.

Interactions

Darat may interact with the following medicines:

• Beta-blockers: Combining nifedipine with beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol, propranolol) can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects of both medications. Your healthcare provider may adjust the dosage of one or both drugs to minimize the risk of low blood pressure or other adverse effects.
• Digoxin: Concurrent use of nifedipine and digoxin, a medication used to treat certain heart conditions, can increase the levels of digoxin in the blood. Close monitoring of digoxin levels and cardiac function is necessary to avoid potential toxicity.
• CYP3A4 inhibitors: Nifedipine is metabolized by the enzyme CYP3A4 in the liver. Therefore, medications that inhibit this enzyme, such as clarithromycin, erythromycin, or antifungal drugs like ketoconazole, can increase the blood levels of nifedipine. Your healthcare provider may need to adjust the dosage of nifedipine to prevent excessive drug concentrations and potential side effects.
• Grapefruit juice: Consuming grapefruit juice or grapefruit products can inhibit the metabolism of nifedipine, leading to increased drug concentrations in the body. It is advisable to avoid grapefruit juice while taking nifedipine to prevent potential interactions.
  Other blood pressure medications: Combining nifedipine with other blood pressure medications, such as ACE inhibitors or diuretics, can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects. Your healthcare provider will monitor your blood pressure closely and adjust the dosage of these medications if necessary.

Inform your physician about the drugs you take including over-the-counter medications, prescribed drugs, supplements and vitamins.

This is not a complete list of drug interactions. Approach your physician or pharmacist for more details.

The effects of certain medications can change if you consume different medications or herbal products simultaneously. This can build your risk for side effects or may cause your drugs not to work effectively. These interactions are conceivable, yet don’t generally happen. Your physician or pharmacist can prevent or oversee interactions by changing how you utilize your prescriptions or by close checking.

While utilizing this drug, don’t start, stop, or change the dose of other medicines you are using without your physician’s advice.

If you suspect an overdose, contact your doctor right away.

Available Brands:

• Darat