nifedipine GITS

Nifedipine GITS (Gastrointestinal Therapeutic System) is an extended-release oral formulation of the dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker nifedipine. It utilizes an osmotic release mechanism (OROS) to provide a controlled, zero-order release of the active ingredient over a 24-hour period, maintaining stable plasma concentrations and reducing the risk of reflex tachycardia associated with immediate-release formulations. This formulation is primarily indicated for the management of essential hypertension and chronic stable angina. By selectively inhibiting the influx of calcium ions through L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, nifedipine GITS promotes peripheral vasodilation, which decreases systemic vascular resistance and lowers arterial blood pressure. The specific context of this entry refers to clinical research conducted by National Taiwan University Hospital comparing different brands of nifedipine GITS, such as Nifecardia SRFC and Adalat OROS.

Brand names

Adalat OROSNifecardia SRFCAdalat GITSProcardia XL

Other names

Nifedipine OROSNifedipine SRFC