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Cardene SR Side Effects

Generic name: nicardipine

Medically reviewed by Drugs.com. Last updated on Oct 28, 2024.

Note: This document provides detailed information about Cardene SR Side Effects associated with nicardipine. Some dosage forms listed on this page may not apply specifically to the brand name Cardene SR.

Applies to nicardipine: oral capsule.

Other dosage forms:

Serious side effects of Cardene SR

Along with its needed effects, nicardipine (the active ingredient contained in Cardene SR) may cause some unwanted effects. Although not all of these side effects may occur, if they do occur they may need medical attention.

Check with your doctor immediately if any of the following side effects occur while taking nicardipine:

More common side effects

  • arm, back, or jaw pain
  • chest pain or discomfort
  • chest tightness or heaviness
  • fast or irregular heartbeat
  • nausea
  • palpitations
  • shortness of breath
  • sweating
  • swelling of the legs

Less common side effects

  • shakiness
  • swelling

Rare side effects

  • blurred vision
  • cold hands and feet
  • cold sweats
  • confusion
  • cough or hoarseness
  • difficulty swallowing
  • dizziness, faintness, or lightheadedness when getting up from a lying or sitting position suddenly
  • extra heartbeat
  • fever or chills
  • hives
  • increase in frequency of urination
  • itching
  • lower back or side pain
  • painful or difficult urination
  • puffiness or swelling of the eyelids or around the eyes, face, lips, or tongue
  • skin rash
  • unusual tiredness or weakness
  • wheezing

Get emergency help immediately if any of the following symptoms of overdose occur while taking nicardipine:

Symptoms of overdose

Other side effects of Cardene SR

Some side effects of nicardipine may occur that usually do not need medical attention. These side effects may go away during treatment as your body adjusts to the medicine. Also, your health care professional may be able to tell you about ways to prevent or reduce some of these side effects.

Check with your health care professional if any of the following side effects continue or are bothersome or if you have any questions about them:

More common side effects

  • feeling of warmth
  • headache
  • lack or loss of strength
  • redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally, upper chest

Less common side effects

  • acid or sour stomach
  • belching
  • burning, crawling, itching, numbness, prickling, "pins and needles", or tingling feelings
  • difficulty in moving
  • dry mouth
  • heartburn
  • indigestion
  • joint pain
  • muscle aching or cramping
  • muscle pains or stiffness
  • rash
  • stomach discomfort, upset, or pain
  • swollen joints

Rare side effects

  • changes in vision
  • constipation
  • continuing ringing or buzzing or other unexplained noise in ears
  • decreased interest in sexual intercourse
  • difficult or labored breathing
  • discouragement
  • fear or nervousness
  • feeling of constant movement of self or surroundings
  • feeling sad or empty
  • hearing loss
  • inability to have or keep an erection
  • increase in body movements
  • irritability
  • lack of appetite
  • loss of interest or pleasure
  • loss in sexual ability, desire, drive, or performance
  • nervousness
  • pain or tenderness around eyes and cheekbones
  • runny nose
  • sensation of spinning
  • sneezing
  • sore throat
  • stuffy nose
  • trouble concentrating
  • trouble sleeping

For healthcare professionals

Applies to nicardipine: compounding powder, intravenous solution, oral capsule, oral capsule extended release.

General adverse events

The most common adverse reactions were consequences of vasodilation.[Ref]

Cardiovascular

Nervous system

Gastrointestinal

Other

Dermatologic

Metabolic

Musculoskeletal

Psychiatric

Genitourinary

Respiratory

Ocular

Immunologic

Hematologic

Hepatic

References

1. (2002) "Product Information. Cardene (nicardipine)." Syntex Laboratories Inc

Further information

Cardene SR side effects can vary depending on the individual. Always consult your healthcare provider to ensure the information displayed on this page applies to your personal circumstances.

Some side effects may not be reported. You may report them to the FDA.