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nifedipine (Darbelan 10)

✓ Approved

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd. · CACNA1C · Small Molecule

What is nifedipine?

nifedipine is a small molecule developed by Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.. It is approved for therapeutic indications via oral (po).

Drug Profile

Brand NamesDarbelan 10
CompanyTeva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.
Drug ClassSmall Molecule
Molecular TargetCACNA1C
RouteOral (PO)
StatusApproved
Sources: ClinicalTrials.gov, Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.

Mechanism of Action

Molecular Targets

nifedipine acts on 1 molecular target:

CACNA1Ccalcium voltage-gated channel subunit alpha1 C (CACNL1A1, CACNA1C-IT2)
Want deeper analysis?Noah AI can explain complex mechanisms and compare to similar drugs.

Therapeutic Indications

nifedipine is developed for 2 unique indications across 2 therapeutic areas.

Therapeutic AreaConditionPhase
Cardiac disordersAngina pectoris✓ Approved
Vascular disordersHypertension✓ Approved

Related Research Articles

PubMedCureus2026-09-18

Unmasking the Unexpected: Renal Arteriovenous Malformation in a Young Puerto Rican Patient With Persistent Hypertension.

Rivera-Valentin Milton M MM, Abarca-Riancho Gretchen C GC, Perez Cristina M CM, Torres Mercado Brian B et al.

Renal arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) are uncommon vascular abnormalities that may present a diagnostic challenge, particularly in young patients undergoing evaluation for persistent hypertension. We present the case of a 20-year-old woman with hypertension that remained elevated despite treatment with lisinopril and extended-release nifedipine. During outpatient cardiology follow-up, her blood pressure was 163/91 mmHg, prompting further evaluation for a secondary cause. Renal ultrasonography demonstrated asymmetric kidney size, with the left kidney smaller than the right. Subsequent computed tomography angiography of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis demonstrated a normal aorta without evidence of coarctation and no significant stenosis of the main renal arteries. Despite unrevealing noninvasive vascular imaging, persistent clinical suspicion for an underlying renal vascular abnormality prompted selective renal angiography. Angiography revealed a hypervascular nidus in the lower pole of the left kidney supplied by a tortuous branch of the left main renal artery, consistent with a slow-flow renal AVM. Superselective embolization of the feeding vessel was performed through right distal radial access using a detachable microcoil. Final angiography demonstrated successful occlusion of the targeted AVM while preserving perfusion to the surrounding renal parenchyma. The procedure was completed without immediate complications. At four-month follow-up, hypertension persisted and required intensification of antihypertensive therapy, suggesting that the AVM could not be established as the sole cause of the patient's hypertension. This case highlights the importance of considering uncommon renal vascular abnormalities in young patients with severe hypertension and renal asymmetry when the initial evaluation is inconclusive. Selective renal angiography can provide detailed anatomic characterization while simultaneously offering an opportunity for targeted endovascular therapy.

PMID 42757152
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PubMedFoods (Basel, Switzerland)2026-09-15

Eucommia ulmoides Leaf Polyphenols Alleviate Hypertension and Modulate Gut Microbiota and Metabolic Profiles in Spontaneously Hypertensive Rats.

Song Jia J, Ma Delong D, Fan Yaqi Y, Zhao Rongyu R et al.

Eucommia ulmoides leaves, a traditional edible and medicinal resource, are a rich source of bioactive polyphenols. In this study, male Wistar rats served as the normal control, while spontaneously hypertensive rats were randomized into model, positive control (nifedipine, 6.0 mg/kg/d), and low-, medium-, and high-dose groups receiving 1.25, 2.50, and 3.75 mL/kg/d of the polyphenol extract (n = 8/group) via intragastric gavage for 4 weeks. The extract supplementation significantly reduced systolic and diastolic blood pressure to approximately 166.33 mmHg and 113.93 mmHg, respectively, thereby improving vascular function (p < 0.05), accompanied by alleviation of lipid metabolism disorders and oxidative stress. In addition, it mitigated intestinal injury and enhanced gut barrier integrity. Notably, it reshaped the gut microbiota by enriching beneficial bacteria and suppressing harmful taxa, which is associated with increased production of short-chain fatty acids. Integrated metabolomics analysis further demonstrated that it modulated multiple metabolic pathways, particularly arachidonic acid and tryptophan metabolism, which are closely linked to vascular homeostasis, inflammation, and oxidative stress. Collectively, these findings indicate that the antihypertensive effects of the polyphenol extract are potentially linked to the regulation of the gut microbiota-metabolite axis, highlighting its promising application as a functional food ingredient for cardiovascular health.

PMID 42737276
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PubMedAJOG global reports2026-09-14

Nifedipine-associated maternal oxygen desaturation in an IVF twin pregnancy complicated by preterm premature rupture of membranes: a case report.

Cheng Yu-Ting YT, Liu Chih-Jung CJ, Chan Te-Fu TF, Hsu Wei-Yun WY

To report a case of nifedipine-associated maternal oxygen desaturation in an IVF-conceived twin pregnancy complicated by PPROM with complete clinical documentation, and to provide denominator context from a retrospective review of institutional experience prompted by this case. Case report at a single tertiary center. Following the Index Case, we conducted a retrospective review of all 103 patients who received nifedipine tocolysis at our institution over the preceding 2 years (January 2024-January 2026). Among these, 10 (9.7%) had IVF-conceived multiple gestations complicated by PPROM-the clinical profile shared with the Index Case; 3 of these 10 (30%) had developed oxygen desaturation. Only the Index Case had complete clinical workup and is reported in detail. Among 103 nifedipine tocolysis patients, 10 (9.7%) had IVF-conceived multiple gestations complicated by PPROM; 3 of these 10 (30%) developed oxygen desaturation. Two additional cases lacked complete workup and could not be attributed to nifedipine. The Index Case: a 36-year-old with IVF-conceived DCDA twins at 23+3 weeks developed SpO₂ 88% to 90% within hours of nifedipine. Echocardiography: preserved LVEF; BNP 626 pg/mL; troponin I<0.01 ng/mL; chest radiography: no alveolar pulmonary edema. Magnesium sulfate was never concurrent with nifedipine; it was given once for fetal neuroprotection after Episode 1, before either rechallenge. SpO₂ normalized without diuretics after each nifedipine discontinuation. Two deliberate rechallenges (Episodes 2 and 3, both without MgSO₄) both reproduced desaturation; Episode 2 required intensive care unit admission. Atosiban was initiated without recurrence. This case, strengthened by two positive rechallenges occurring without concurrent magnesium sulfate, provides compelling temporal evidence for nifedipine-associated respiratory compromise in an IVF twin pregnancy with PPROM. The pattern of desaturation without radiographic alveolar pulmonary edema, elevated BNP, and resolution without diuresis suggests subclinical hemodynamic perturbation as the underlying mechanism. Clinicians should maintain heightened vigilance for unexplained oxygen desaturation during nifedipine tocolysis in this patient population.

PMID 42733556
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PubMedJournal of drug targeting2026-09-06

Ufasomal nanocarriers for enhanced cardiac delivery of nifedipine: a novel strategy to mitigate doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity in breast cancer therapy.

Farouk Hanan O HO, Abo El-Ela Fatma I FI, Baali Fahad H FH, Belal Amany A et al.

The cardiotoxicity of doxorubicin significantly restricts its effectiveness, even though it remains a crucial element of breast cancer chemotherapy. Nifedipine (NFP) offers multi-mechanistic therapeutic benefits, including vasodilation, anti-proliferative activities, suppression of cellular apoptosis, and potent anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties. However, the translation of oral NFP into an effective cardioprotective adjuvant is hindered by its poor solubility, first-pass hepatic metabolism, and poor bioavailability. Hence, this study aimed to develop a nasal NFP-loaded ufasomes (NLU) spray formulation to enhance the permeation, bioavailability, sustained release, and cardiac accumulation of NFP when co-administered with doxorubicin. Various NLU formulations were developed and optimised employing Design-Expert® software. The in vivo cardioprotective efficacy of the nasal NLU was comprehensively evaluated in a doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity rat model. The optimal NLU substantially prolonged drug sustainability and amplified mucosal permeability by 69.07% and 6.47-fold, respectively, compared to the free NFP suspension. Furthermore, nasal NLU formulation achieved a remarkable 7.33-fold enhancement in bioavailability and a 5.40-fold increase in cardiac tissue accumulation when contrasted with conventional oral NFP administration. Furthermore, the nasal NLU spray exhibited superior cardioprotective and antioxidant performance over the oral NFP. In conclusion, these findings establish the nasal NLU formulation as a promising therapeutic platform to mitigate doxorubicin-induced cardiotoxicity.

PMID 42700144
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PubMedInternational journal of surgery case reports2026-09-06

The role of integrated radiology in diagnosis and treatment of renal artery stenosis: a case report.

Wahyono Djuwita Adi DA, Darmawan Marsha Ruthy MR, Drajat Endang E, Praptini Mirna Nurasri MN et al.

Renal artery stenosis (RAS) is a significant cause of ischemic nephropathy and secondary hypertension and is often underdiagnosed. While atherosclerosis predominates in older adults, younger patients are affected by various etiologies, such as fibromuscular dysplasia (FMD). Early diagnosis and intervention using integrated radiologic modalities are crucial to prevent irreversible end-organ damage in such patients. A 16-year-old male presented with a 6-month history of dizziness and refractory hypertension, with peak readings above 190/100 mm Hg despite aggressive antihypertensive therapy (amlodipine, nifedipine, and spironolactone). His physical examination was unremarkable except for elevated blood pressure (140/100 mmHg). Computed tomography angiography (CTA) of the renal arteries revealed a tight focal stenosis in the right renal artery, with post-stenotic dilation and collateral circulation to both poles of the right kidney. Selective digital subtraction angiography (DSA) confirmed these findings. Percutaneous transluminal renal angioplasty (PTRA) was performed using sequentially larger balloons (2.5 mm to 5.0 mm), and a vascular stent was deployed, achieving complete recanalization and robust distal flow. The patient was discharged on dual antiplatelet therapy with no complaints. This case highlights the utility of CTA for detailed anatomical assessment and DSA for confirmation and intervention. The need for stenting post-angioplasty due to residual stenosis underscores the importance of having a comprehensive endovascular strategy. Early and effective management of RAS is crucial to prevent long-term complications in young patients. Integrated imaging is essential for diagnosis, lesion characterization, and procedural planning in RAS patients. Endovascular revascularization is an effective treatment with early technical and clinical success.

PMID 42699528
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PubMedJournal of drugs in dermatology : JDD2026-09-04

Topical Sirolimus for Refractory Cutis Marmorata Telangiectatica Congenita in Adulthood: A Case Report.

Bhatt Ram D RD, Karpoff Kateryna K, Heitman Nicholas N, Aslam Rabail R et al.

Cutis marmorata telangiectatica congenita (CMTC) is a rare congenital vascular disorder characterized by persistent, violaceous, reticulated skin changes that may be complicated by painful ulcerations. Although localized disease often improves with age, generalized CMTC can persist into adulthood and may be associated with limb asymmetry, ocular abnormalities, and neurologic sequelae. Diagnosis can be challenging in atypical adult presentations despite established major and minor criteria. We report a case of a 50-year-old woman with congenital livedo reticularis and Raynaud syndrome who presented with lifelong unilateral left lower-extremity hypoplasia and fixed lacy violaceous patches. Over the preceding decade, she developed recurrent, spontaneous, painful ulcerations exacerbated by cold exposure. Examination revealed a hypoplastic left leg with reticulated violaceous patches and tender, crusted erosions without venectasia; biopsy findings ruled out vasculitis, and the overall clinicopathologic picture met all three major and multiple minor Kienast-Hoeger criteria for CMTC. Multiple therapies targeting vasospasm and microvascular flow (including sildenafil, pentoxifylline, diosmiplex, nifedipine, and aspirin) failed to improve symptoms. Initiation of once-daily topical sirolimus (1 mg/mL) resulted in marked pain reduction within four weeks and cessation of new ulcerations, with visible improvement and healed erosions by two months. This case supports topical sirolimus as a promising off-label option for adult CMTC with chronic ulcerative disease.

PMID 42696321
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