Drug interactions
Nicardipine + Rifampin
Severity: Major
Nicardipine and Rifampin: major interaction.
Last updated
For healthcare professionals — reference only. This page is a brief summary, not medical advice and not a substitute for official labeling or clinical judgement. Always verify before prescribing or dispensing.
Summary
Rifampin strongly induces CYP3A4 and can markedly lower nicardipine concentrations, leading to loss of blood pressure or angina control. Effects begin within days and persist after rifampin is stopped.
What this interaction means in plain words
Nicardipine and Rifampin can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for.
Why it happens
Rifampin induces CYP3A4 and P-glycoprotein, increasing nicardipine first-pass and systemic metabolism.
What to do
Monitor blood pressure and increase the nicardipine dose as required, or use an alternative antihypertensive. Reduce the dose again after rifampin is discontinued.
What to ask your pharmacist
- Does the benefit of taking both outweigh the risk in my case?
- Do I need any blood test, ECG or other check while on both?
- What early warning signs should I watch for, and what should I do if they appear?
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Other interactions of Nicardipine
Frequently asked questions
Can I take Nicardipine with Rifampin?
MediHelp rates the interaction as major. Nicardipine and Rifampin can interact in a way that may be serious. Using them together is sometimes necessary, but it needs a deliberate decision by the prescriber, a plan for monitoring, and clear advice on the warning signs to watch for. Rifampin strongly induces CYP3A4 and can markedly lower nicardipine concentrations, leading to loss of blood pressure or angina control. Effects begin within days and persist after rifampin is stopped.
How serious is the interaction between Nicardipine and Rifampin?
MediHelp rates it major, on a four-level scale (minor, moderate, major, contraindicated) based on published labels and references. What to do, in brief: Monitor blood pressure and increase the nicardipine dose as required, or use an alternative antihypertensive. Reduce the dose again after rifampin is discontinued.
What other medicines interact with Nicardipine?
MediHelp also lists interactions of Nicardipine with, for example, Amifostine, Amlodipine-olmesartan-hydrochlorothiazide, Betrixaban. The full list is on the Nicardipine page.
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