Cilnidipine is a medicine used to treat high blood pressure. It belongs to a group of medicines which block the calcium channels in the blood vessel. It works by relaxing the blood vessels in patients with high blood pressure. This widens the diameter of the blood vessels which helps the blood to pass through them more easily.

Both these medicines are used in the treatment of blood pressure and are equally good in effectively reducing the blood pressure. Cilnidipine has also been found to be beneficial in patients with kidney problems as compared to amlodipine. Additionally, while amlodipine may have chances of causing mild ankle swelling, Cilnidipine has been found to have lesser chances of causing ankle swelling, tachycardia and palpitations. Your doctor will suggest either of these after seeing what suits you.

Cilnidipine is generally well tolerated but sometimes can also be associated with side effects like headache, dizziness, flushing, palpitations, low blood pressure, and stomach problems. It may also cause increased urination, ankle swelling, and lethargy. These side effects are not common in everyone but may occur in some individuals. Do consult your doctor if you notice any side effects after taking this medicine.

Yes, Cilnidipine has been shown to have protective effects on the kidney cells, thereby preventing them from damage. It has also been shown to decrease protein leakage from the kidney in patients who have diabetes as well as high blood pressure.

Cilnidipine can be taken anytime of the day. Usually, it is advised to be taken in the morning, but your doctor may advise to take it in the evening as well. You should take it at the same time each day so that you remember to take it and consistent levels of medicine are maintained in the body.

You should keep on taking Cilnidipine for as long as your doctor has recommended you to take it. You may need to take it lifelong. Do not stop taking it, even if you feel well or your blood pressure is well controlled. If you stop taking Cilnidipine, your blood pressure may increase again and your condition may worsen.

Lifestyle changes play a major role in keeping you healthy if you are taking Cilnidipine. Avoid taking excess salt in your diet and find ways to reduce or manage stress in your life. Practise yoga or meditation or take up a hobby. Ensure that you have a sound sleep every night as this also reduces your stress and hence helps in keeping your blood pressure normal. Stop smoking and taking alcohol as this helps in lowering your blood pressure and helps to prevent heart problems. Exercise regularly and take a balanced diet that includes whole grains, fresh fruits, vegetables and fat-free products. Avoid eating grapefruit (chakotra) or drinking grapefruit juice while taking Cilnidipine. You should consult your doctor if you need any further help to get maximum benefit of Cilnidipine and to keep healthy.