Structure of Nicardipine
Nicardipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker with a substituted phenyl ring and a methoxyethyl group attached to the dihydropyridine core.
Chemical Formula: C₂₂H₂₆N₂O₆
Mode of Action
Calcium Channel Blocking: Inhibits L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle.
Vasodilation: Causes significant peripheral arterial dilation, reducing blood pressure.
Cardiac Effects: May have slight negative inotropic and chronotropic effects at higher doses.
Uses
Hypertension: Effective in lowering systemic blood pressure.
Hypertensive Emergencies: Intravenous formulation used in acute settings.
Angina Pectoris: Alleviates chest pain by improving myocardial oxygen supply.
Subarachnoid Hemorrhage: Prevents vasospasm and reduces cerebral vasoconstriction.