This first section of our medication database entry focuses on basic drug characteristics, uses and benefits, while part two covers side effects, interactions and additional information.
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Dynacirc Consumer Information
DYNACIRC
Generic Name: isradipine (is RA di peen)
Brand Names: Dynacirc, Dynacirc CR
What is the most important information I should know about isradipine?
- Do not stop taking isradipine suddenly even if you feel well. If you stop taking isradipine, your condition could become worse.
- Do not crush, chew, or break, the extended-release form of isradipine (DynaCirc CR). It is specially formulated to release the medication slowly into your body. Occasionally, you may find what looks like a tablet in your stool. Do not be concerned, this is an empty shell. The medication has been absorbed by your body and the empty tablet shell is passed out in the stool.
What is isradipine?
- Isradipine is in a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. Isradipine relaxes (widens) your blood vessels (veins and arteries), which makes it easier for your heart to pump and reduces its workload.
- Isradipine is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure).
- Isradipine may also be used for purposes other than those listed in this medication guide.
What should I discuss with my healthcare provider before taking isradipine?
- Before taking this medication, tell your doctor if you have
- kidney disease;
- liver disease;
- other diseases of the heart or blood vessels such as congestive heart failure, low blood pressure, or coronary artery disease; or
- a condition involving narrowing of your esophagus, stomach, or intestinal tract.
- You may not be able to take isradipine, or you may require a lower dose or special monitoring during treatment if you have any of the conditions listed above.
- Isradipine is in the FDA pregnancy category C. This means that it is not known whether isradipine will harm an unborn baby. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are pregnant.
- It is also not known whether isradipine passes into breast milk. Do not take this medication without first talking to your doctor if you are breast-feeding a baby.
How should I take isradipine?
- Take isradipine exactly as directed by your doctor. If you do not understand these directions, ask your pharmacist, nurse, or doctor to explain them to you.
- Take each dose with a full glass of water.
- Do not crush, chew, or break, the extended-release form of isradipine (DynaCirc CR). It is specially formulated to release the medication slowly into your body. Occasionally, you may find what looks like a tablet in your stool. Do not be concerned, this is an empty shell. The medication has been absorbed by your body and the empty tablet shell is passed out in the stool.
- Do not stop taking isradipine suddenly even if you feel well. If you stop taking isradipine, your condition could become worse.
- Store isradipine at room temperature away from moisture and heat.
What happens if I miss a dose?
- Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and take only your next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.
What happens if I overdose?
- Seek emergency medical attention.
- Symptoms of an isradipine overdose include dizziness, weakness, chest pain, shortness of breath, fainting, an unusually fast or slow heartbeat, coma, slurred speech, and confusion.
What should I avoid while taking isradipine?
- Use alcohol cautiously. Alcohol may increase drowsiness and dizziness while you are taking isradipine.
Please see the end of this document for relevant limitations, full details of our medication information supplier, and revision date or version number.