Nicardipine LA is a medication used for the treatment of high blood pressure and other related conditions. The spelling of Nicardipine is pronounced as /nɪˈkɑrdəpɪn/ based on the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA). The LA in the medication name stands for "long-acting", meaning that the medication is designed to gradually release over an extended period of time. Proper spelling and pronunciation of medication names are essential for accurate prescribing and dispensing. Always consult with your healthcare provider before taking any medication.
Nicardipine LA is a medication belonging to the calcium channel blocker class of drugs. It is primarily used in the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension) and angina pectoris, which is chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart. The term "LA" in Nicardipine LA stands for long-acting, indicating that it is formulated to have an extended release over an extended period of time.
Nicardipine LA works by blocking calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle cells, which results in a relaxation of these muscles. This effect causes the blood vessels to dilate, thereby reducing blood pressure and improving blood flow to the heart. By decreasing the workload on the heart, it helps to relieve chest pain in individuals with angina.
The extended-release formulation of Nicardipine LA allows for a sustained release of the medication into the bloodstream, leading to a longer duration of action compared to immediate-release formulations. This means that fewer doses are required throughout the day, enhancing convenience for patients.
It is important to note that Nicardipine LA should only be taken as directed by a healthcare professional, as improper use or abrupt discontinuation might lead to adverse effects. Furthermore, individuals with certain medical conditions or taking specific medications may not be suitable candidates for Nicardipine LA, thus it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for guidance before initiating this treatment.
The word "Nicardipine LA" is a combination of the drug name "Nicardipine" and the abbreviation "LA" which stands for "Long-Acting".
"Nicardipine" is derived from the generic name of the drug, which was initially developed by the pharmaceutical company Pfizer. The term "Nicar" in "Nicardipine" refers to the country Nicaragua, while the term "dipine" is a common suffix used for calcium channel blockers, a class of drugs that Nicardipine belongs to.
The "LA" in "Nicardipine LA" designates the specific formulation of the medication, indicating that it is a long-acting version that provides a sustained release of the drug over an extended period of time.