Nifediac CC and Procrit

• Generic Name: nifedipine
• Dosage Forms: tablet, film coated, extended release
• Other Brand Names: Adalat CC, Afeditab CR, Nifediac CC, Nifedical XL, Procardia, Procardia XL, Adalat

Nifedipine is used alone or together with other medicines to treat severe chest pain (angina) or 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.

Nifedipine 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, nifedipine relaxes blood vessels and increases the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart while reducing its workload.

This medicine is available only with your doctor's prescription.

• Generic Name: epoetin alfa
• Dosage Forms: injection, solution
• Other Brand Names: Epogen, Procrit, Retacrit

Procrit (epoetin alfa) is a man-made form of a protein that helps your body produce red blood cells. This protein may be reduced when you have kidney failure or use certain medications. When fewer red blood cells are produced, you can develop a condition called anemia.

Procrit is used to treat anemia caused by chemotherapy or chronic kidney disease, or anemia caused by taking zidovudine to treat HIV (human immunodeficiency virus).

Procrit is also used to reduce the need for red blood cell transfusions in people having certain types of surgery.