From the FDA Drug Label
DOSAGE AND ADMINISTRATION Dosage should be adjusted according to each patient's needs. ... The usual maintenance dose is 30 mg to 60 mg once daily. The FDA drug label does not answer the question.
From the Research
Nifedipine is not typically recommended as a first-line treatment for headaches, and its use should be approached with caution due to potential side effects and interactions 1. When considering the use of nifedipine for headaches, it's essential to weigh the limited evidence supporting its effectiveness against the potential risks.
- The most recent and relevant study on this topic, published in 1995, found that nifedipine was effective in reducing the frequency and severity of migraine headaches, but not tension headaches 1.
- However, other studies have reported mixed results, with some finding no significant difference between nifedipine and placebo in reducing headache frequency 2.
- Additionally, nifedipine can cause side effects like dizziness, flushing, and rapid heart rate, and may interact with other medications, which can impact morbidity, mortality, and quality of life 3.
- For migraine prevention, if a calcium channel blocker is needed, verapamil (starting at 120-240 mg daily in divided doses) is generally preferred over nifedipine.
- For acute headache treatment, medications like NSAIDs (ibuprofen 400-600 mg), acetaminophen (1000 mg), or triptans (such as sumatriptan 50-100 mg) are more appropriate first-line options. It's crucial to consult with a healthcare provider for proper diagnosis and treatment, as the underlying cause of headaches determines the most appropriate medication, and self-medicating with nifedipine is not advised due to potential risks and interactions 4, 5.