Sular

Generic name: Nisoldipine

Drug class: Calcium channel blockers

Dosage form: Extended-release tablets

Route of administration: Oral

Dose: The dosage of SULAR must be adjusted to each patient’s needs. Therapy usually should be initiated with 17 mg orally once daily, then increased by 8.5 mg per week or longer intervals, to attain adequate control of blood pressure. Usual maintenance dosage is 17 to 34 mg once daily. Blood pressure response increases over the 8.5 – 34 mg daily dose range but adverse event rates also increase. Doses beyond 34 mg once daily are not recommended.

Mechanism of action: Nisoldipine is a calcium channel blocker that inhibits the transmembrane influx of calcium into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle, leading to vasodilation and reduced blood pressure.

Drug usage cases:

• Hypertension

Drug contraindications:

• Known hypersensitivity to dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers
• Severe obstructive coronary artery disease
• Recent myocardial infarction
• Unstable angina
• Severe liver impairment

Side effects:

• Headache
• Dizziness
• Flushing
• Edema (swelling) of the legs and ankles
• Chest pain
• Fast or irregular heartbeat
• Hypotension (low blood pressure)
• Rash
• Fatigue
• Gastrointestinal disturbances (e.g., nausea, abdominal discomfort)

Warnings:

• Monitor blood pressure regularly during treatment initiation and dose adjustments
• Use caution in patients with coronary artery disease due to potential worsening of angina or myocardial infarction
• Exercise caution in patients with hepatic impairment; consider starting at a lower dose and monitor closely
• Avoid grapefruit products during treatment, as they may increase nisoldipine levels
• Not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding: Nisoldipine is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.