Which side effect is commonly seen with nifedipine?

• A. Hypotension
• B. Jaundice
• C. Fever
• D. Bradycardia

Answer: (A)

Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker primarily used to manage hypertension and angina. One of the common side effects associated with nifedipine is hypotension, which occurs because the medication dilates blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. This is a beneficial effect in patients who have high blood pressure, but it can lead to hypotension if the dosage is not properly managed or if the patient is particularly sensitive to blood pressure changes. Monitoring blood pressure is essential when administering nifedipine, as patients may experience dizziness or lightheadedness due to the drop in blood pressure.

The other options do not align with the typical side effects of nifedipine. Jaundice is more associated with liver-related issues or other medications that affect liver function. Fever is not a common side effect of nifedipine and may suggest an infection or other unrelated condition. Bradycardia, which is a slower than normal heart rate, is not typically induced by nifedipine; rather, it may cause reflex tachycardia as the body attempts to compensate for lowered blood pressure. Thus, hypotension is the correct and most relevant side effect linked with nifedipine usage.