A patient has had high blood pressure for three years since her first child and was taking Nebistar SA once daily. During her second pregnancy, she was switched to Nicardia Retard 20 twice daily. Now, four months postpartum, her doctor has reduced the Nicardia Retard 20 to once daily. Should she continue taking Nicardia Retard 20, switch back to Nebistar SA, or take a different medication?
You should continue taking Nicardia Retard 20 once daily as prescribed by your doctor. Do not switch back to Nebistar SA or alter your dosage on your own. Nicardia (Nifedipine) is safe and preferred postpartum, especially if you are breastfeeding, whereas Nebistar SA is generally avoided during breastfeeding. Your doctor reduced your dose because your blood pressure is likely stabilizing postpartum. Please monitor your blood pressure regularly at home and share the readings with your healthcare provider. They will decide if you should eventually switch back to Nebistar SA or try another medication based on your readings and breastfeeding status.
