Cilnikem 5 Mg Tablet (10 Tab)

CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET is a medication manufactured by Alkem Laboratories Ltd. used primarily for the management of hypertension.

Name

• Brand Name: CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET
• Common Name: Cilnidipine (as the active ingredient)

Composition

• Active Ingredient: Cilnidipine 5 mg

Uses

CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET is a calcium channel blocker prescribed for:

• Treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension)
• Prevention of heart attack and stroke
• Management of angina (heart-related chest pain)
• Associated vascular disorders and end-organ protection in hypertension

Dosage and Administration

• Typically, take one tablet once daily.
• It can be taken with or without food.
• It is advisable to take the medicine at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels and maximize effectiveness.
• Do not stop taking the medicine abruptly without consulting a doctor, even if you feel well, as this can worsen blood pressure.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include:

• Headache, dizziness, and sleepiness
• Flushing (sense of warmth)
• Palpitations (fast heartbeat)
• Edema (swelling, particularly in ankles or feet)
• Nausea, stomach pain, or abdominal discomfort
• Fatigue and weakness
• Increased urination at night
• Skin rash and itching

Precautions

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Consult your doctor; information is limited or caution is advised.
• Liver and Kidney Disease: Use with caution and inform your doctor if you have pre-existing liver or kidney problems.
• Alcohol: Caution is advised when consuming alcohol, as it may increase the blood pressure-lowering effect.
• Grapefruit Juice: Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice as it can increase the levels of the medication in the blood.
• Driving: May cause dizziness; avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how it affects you.
• Heart Conditions: Exercise caution in patients with severe low blood pressure, severe heart problems like heart failure or aortic stenosis, or angina.

Storage

• Store below 25°C or 30°C in a cool and dry place.
• Protect from direct sunlight, moisture, and heat.
• Keep out of sight and reach of children and pets.

CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET: Frequently Asked Questions

What is CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET used for?

CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and its associated vascular disorders. It also helps in preventing conditions like angina (chest pain), heart attack, and stroke by reducing the workload on the heart and improving blood flow. It can also be beneficial for diabetic patients by managing hypertension and providing kidney-protective benefits.

How does CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET work?

CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET contains Cilnidipine, which is a calcium channel blocker. It works by blocking the entry of calcium ions into the L-type and N-type calcium channels found in the heart and blood vessels. This action relaxes and widens the blood vessels, reducing peripheral vascular resistance and lowering blood pressure. It also suppresses the release of norepinephrine, a hormone that can increase heart rate and blood pressure, providing an additional antihypertensive effect.

What is the usual dosage for CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET?

CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET is typically taken once daily, with or without food, as prescribed by your doctor. It is recommended to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. The dosage may vary depending on the severity of your condition, age, and response to the medicine. Do not alter your dosage or stop taking the medicine without consulting your doctor.

What are the possible side effects of CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET?

Common side effects of CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET can include swelling of the ankles or other body parts (peripheral edema), headache, dizziness, fatigue, flushing (redness and warmth of the skin), palpitations (fast heartbeat), nausea, stomach pain, diarrhea, constipation, and gingival hyperplasia (enlargement or overgrowth of the gums). Most of these side effects are usually temporary and resolve as your body adjusts to the medication. If any side effects trouble you or persist, contact your doctor.

Is CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding?

CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET is not recommended for use during pregnancy as it may harm the fetus. It should only be used in pregnant women if considered necessary by a physician, with monitoring. For breastfeeding women, CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET should be used with caution as it may pass into breast milk. It is advisable to consult your doctor before taking this medicine if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Can CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET be taken with other medications?

Before taking CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET, inform your doctor about all other medicines, herbal preparations, and supplements you are currently taking, especially other antihypertensive and cardiac agents. This medicine can interact with certain medications, including anticancer agents (e.g., aldesleukin), antiepileptics (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin), antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), anti-TB agents (e.g., rifampicin), antipsychotics (e.g., risperidone), insulin, and cimetidine. Concomitant use with other calcium channel blockers or beta-blockers may lead to excessive lowering of blood pressure.

What precautions should be taken with CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET?

Inform your doctor if you have any liver or kidney problems, severe high or low blood pressure (hypotension), edema, congestive heart failure, or other severe heart problems like narrowing of heart valves or a recent heart attack. Avoid consuming alcohol as it may increase the blood pressure-lowering effect and cause dizziness and drowsiness. Grapefruit or grapefruit juice should also be avoided as it can increase the absorption of the medicine, leading to excessive blood pressure lowering and side effects. This medicine may cause dizziness or lightheadedness; avoid driving or operating heavy machinery until you know how it affects you. Do not stop taking CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET suddenly, as it can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure or worsen your condition.

What happens if a dose is missed?

If you miss a dose of CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to compensate for the missed one.

How should CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET be stored?

CILNIKEM 5 MG TABLET should be stored in a cool, dry place, protected from light and moisture, and kept out of reach of children. Always check the expiry date and avoid using the medicine past its expiration date.