Nicardipine Pregnancy and Breastfeeding Warnings
Brand names: Cardene, Cardene IV, Cardene SR
Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Jun 30, 2023.
Nicardipine Pregnancy Warnings
This drug should be used during pregnancy only if the benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Use is contraindicated per some authorities.
US FDA pregnancy category: C
Animal studies have revealed evidence of embryolethality and fetal harm. In humans, transient fetal heart rate decelerations and neonatal hypotension and acidosis (pH less than 7.25) have been reported. There are no controlled data in human pregnancy.
US FDA pregnancy category C: Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.
Nicardipine Breastfeeding Warnings
Use should be avoided; however, this drug has been used without apparent harmful effects. Use is contraindicated per some authorities.
Excreted into human milk: Yes (in small amounts)
In two studies involving a total of 18 infants exposed to this drug through breast milk during the postpartum period, the calculated daily infant dose was less than 0.3 mcg and there were no adverse events observed.
See also
References for pregnancy information
- (2002) "Product Information. Cardene (nicardipine)." Syntex Laboratories Inc
References for breastfeeding information
- (2002) "Product Information. Cardene (nicardipine)." Syntex Laboratories Inc
- United States National Library of Medicine (2013) Toxnet. Toxicology Data Network. http://toxnet.nlm.nih.gov/cgi-bin/sis/htmlgen?LACT
Further information
Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.