Clinical decision-support only. For use by licensed dental professionals. Not a substitute for professional judgment or a complete drug reference. Always verify with primary sources.
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Medication

Nicardipine

Calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine)

Brand names: Cardene

Oral health effects

  • Gingival overgrowth

    Dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers are a recognized cause of gingival enlargement, usually beginning at the interdental papillae.

    Mechanism: Altered calcium flux in gingival fibroblasts with reduced collagen degradation; plaque acts as a co-factor.

    Clinical management: Optimize plaque control and recall frequency; discuss substitution with the physician for significant cases; surgical reduction if persistent.

  • Dry mouth (xerostomia)

    Dry mouth was reported in 1.4% of patients on nicardipine capsules vs 0.3% on placebo in controlled trials.

    Clinical management: Ask about oral dryness; recommend frequent sips of water, sugar-free gum/lozenges, and fluoride toothpaste or varnish if dryness persists.

Sources

  1. Calcium channel blocker-induced gingival enlargement. Livada R, Shiloah J. Journal of human hypertension, 2014.
  2. Drug-Induced Gingival Overgrowth-Molecular Aspects of Drug Actions. Droździk A, Droździk M. International journal of molecular sciences, 2023.
  3. Nicardipine prescribing information (FDA label) PuraCap Laboratories LLC dba Blu Pharmaceuticals / DailyMed, 2019.