What is a common side effect of using nifedipine (Procardia XL)?

Nifedipine, a calcium channel blocker used primarily for hypertension and angina, has several known side effects due to its mechanism of action. One of the most common side effects associated with nifedipine is peripheral edema, particularly in the ankles. This occurs as the drug causes vasodilation, leading to increased blood flow to peripheral tissues, which can result in fluid retention and swelling.

Headaches are another frequent complaint among patients taking nifedipine. This side effect can occur due to the vasodilatory effects that may initially lead to changes in cerebral blood flow. The combination of ankle edema and headaches is consistent with the side effect profile of calcium channel blockers like nifedipine, making it the correct choice in this context.

Other side effects, while possible, are either less common or not as directly associated with nifedipine. For instance, hyperuricemia and hypoglycemia are not typical side effects of this medication. Similarly, hyperkalemia and angioedema are not common adverse effects with nifedipine, and the dry hacking cough is more commonly associated with ACE inhibitors rather than calcium channel blockers. Therefore, the presence of ankle edema and headache is a characteristic and common outcome of nifedip