Nifedipine (Adalat) Dosage Guide in Pakistan

Correct dose and method of Nifedipine are essential for treatment success and safety. This guide provides adult dose, extended-release instructions, missed dose, and important precautions.

Compiled by the PakVita Editorial Team · AI-assisted drafting with editorial review · Sourced from DRAP, WHO, BNF · Last updated: 2026-06-17

Dosage Guide

Quick Answer

Nifedipine (Adalat) dose must be taken as per the doctor's prescription. Never crush or chew extended-release tablets — swallow the whole tablet. Do not stop or increase the dose on your own.

Dose at a Glance

Adult Dose

As prescribed by your doctor

As directed by your doctor

Max: Do not exceed the prescribed daily limit

Child Dose (As per doctor's advice)

As prescribed by doctor

As directed by your doctor

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If the next dose time is close, skip it. Never take a double dose — BP should not drop too suddenly.

Overdose

Nifedipine overdose can be serious — severe BP drop, rapid heartbeat, loss of consciousness. Contact a doctor or emergency room immediately.

Nifedipine (Adalat) Dosage

Nifedipine (Adalat) correct dose is critically important because it is a cardiovascular medicine. An incorrect dose can drop BP to a dangerous level. Always follow the doctor's instructions.

Adult Dose

As prescribed by your doctor
The doctor determines the dose based on BP readings, angina severity, and patient condition
Do not exceed the recommended limit

Starting Dose: As prescribed by your doctor

Usual Dose: As prescribed by your doctor

Max Daily Dose: Do not exceed the prescribed daily limit

Child Dose

As prescribed by doctor — the doctor always determines the dose for children based on weight and age. Do not calculate the dose yourself.

Extended-Release Tablets — Important Instructions

Formulation	Instructions
Extended-release (ER / CC / XL)	Swallow the whole tablet — never crush, chew, or break
Short-acting tablets	As per doctor's instructions

Why this matters: Crushing extended-release tablets releases the entire dose at once. This can cause BP to drop severely — it can be life-threatening.

How to Take

As directed by your doctor
Swallow the whole tablet with water (especially ER formulations)
Completely avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice
Take at the same time daily — maintain a routine

Best Time to Take

As per doctor's instructions
Taking at the same time daily maintains a routine and helps avoid missing a dose

With Food or Empty Stomach

Taking with or after food is better if the stomach is sensitive
Avoid grapefruit juice — it raises the level of nifedipine to a dangerous degree

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If the next dose time is close, skip it. Never take a double dose — BP can drop excessively.

Overdose

Taking too much can cause severe hypotension, rapid heartbeat, and loss of consciousness. Contact a doctor or the nearest emergency room immediately. Nifedipine overdose is a cardiovascular emergency.

Dose Summary Table

Patient	Dose	Notes
Adult	As prescribed by your doctor	Strictly follow the doctor's instructions
Child	As prescribed by doctor	Weight and age based
ER/CC/XL Tablets	Swallow whole	Never crush or chew

The information in this guide is for educational purposes only. Always confirm the dose with your doctor or pharmacist.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the dose of Nifedipine?

The doctor decides the dose of Nifedipine based on the severity of the condition. Do not determine or change the dose yourself — always follow the doctor's instructions.

How should extended-release Nifedipine be taken?

Swallow extended-release (ER/CC/XL) tablets whole — never crush, chew, or break them. Crushing can release too much dose at once which is dangerous.

What to do if a Nifedipine dose is missed?

Take as soon as you remember. If the next dose time is close, skip it. Never take a double dose — BP can drop excessively.

Can Nifedipine be taken with grapefruit juice?

No. Grapefruit juice raises the blood level of Nifedipine to a dangerous level. Completely avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice.

How long should Nifedipine be taken?

Complete the full course as per the doctor's instructions. Do not stop on your own — sudden discontinuation can cause BP and angina to worsen again.

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Sources

DRAP Registered Products Database — Drug Regulatory Authority of Pakistan
WHO Model List of Essential Medicines, 23rd ed. (2023) — World Health Organization
British National Formulary (BNF) — BMJ Group & Pharmaceutical Press

Medical disclaimer

This page is for educational use only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always confirm diagnosis, dose, and interactions with a qualified doctor or pharmacist before starting or changing any medicine.