Nicardipine Intravenous and Rifaximin

• Generic Name: nicardipine
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Cardene IV, Cardene SR, Cardene

Nicardipine is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. High blood pressure may also increase the risk of heart attacks. These problems may be less likely to occur if blood pressure is controlled .

Nicardipine is a calcium channel blocker. It works by affecting the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. As a result, nicardipine relaxes blood vessels and increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart while reducing its workload .

Nicardipine is available only with your doctor's prescription .

• Generic Name: rifaximin
• Dosage Forms: n.a.
• Other Brand Names: Xifaxan

Rifaximin is used to treat travelers' diarrhea caused by Escherichia coli (E. coli) in adults and children who are at least 12 years old. Most people get this infection by eating food or drinking fluids that have been contaminated with the E. coli bacteria.

Rifaximin is also used to treat irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) in adults whose main symptom is diarrhea.

Rifaximin is also used to lower the risk of a decline in brain function in adults with liver failure. Brain function can be affected when the liver stops working and cannot remove toxic substances from the body.

Rifaximin may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide.