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niCARdipine (Perdipine) Drug Study

Brand Names: Cardene, Cardene SR, Cardene IV, Perdipine

Classification: Therapeutic: antianginals, antihypertensives; Pharmacologic: calcium channel

blockers.

Indications:

Management of: Hypertension, Angina pectoris, Vasospastic (Prinzmetals) angina.

Mechanism of Action

Inhibits the transport of calcium into myocardial and vascular smooth muscle cells, resulting

in inhibition of excitation-contraction coupling and subsequent contraction. Therapeutic Effects:

Systemic vasodilation resulting in decreased blood pressure. Coronary vasodilation resulting in

decreased frequency and severity of attacks of angina.

Contraindications:

Contraindicated in: Hypersensitivity; Sick sinus syndrome; 2nd- or 3rd-degree AV

block (unless an artificial pacemaker is in place); BP

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polyuria, sexual dysfunction, urinary frequency.Derm: dermatitis, erythemamultiforme,

flushing, increased sweating, photosensitivity, pruritus/urticaria,

rash. Endo:gynecomastia, hyperglycemia. Hemat:anemia, leukopenia, thrombocytopenia.

Metab: weight gain. MS:joint stiffness, muscle cramps. Neuro: paresthesia, tremor.

Route/Dosage

PO (Adults): 20mg 3 times daily,may increase q3 days (range 2040mg 3 timesdaily); or 30 mg

twice daily as sustained-release form (up to 60mg twice daily). IV (Adults): To replace PO

use0.52.2mg/hr continuous infusion. For acute hypertensive episodes5mg/hr titrated as

needed (up to 15 mg/hr).

Nursing Responsibilities:

1. Advise patient to take medication exactly as directed, even if feeling well. Take missed dosesas soon as possible unless almost time for next dose; do not double doses. May need to be

discontinued gradually.

2. Instruct patient on technique for monitoring pulse. Instruct patient to contact health

care professional if heart rate is

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10. Advise patient to contact health care professional if chest pain does not improve, worsens

after therapy, or occurs with diaphoresis; if shortness of breath; or if persistent head ache occurs.