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. Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker that treats high blood pressure and chest pain (angina). This medication makes your blood vessels relax, making it easier for your heart to pump blood. Nifedipine is in a class of medications called calcium-channel blockers. It lowers blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard. Nifedipine is an oral medication used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure). Learn about side effects, warnings, dosage, and more. Nifedipine is in a group of drugs called calcium channel blockers. It works by relaxing the muscles of your heart and blood vessels. Nifedipine is used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and angina (chest pain). Nifedipine may also be used for purposes not listed in this medication guide. Find patient medical information for Nifedipine (Procardia) on WebMD including its uses, side effects and safety, interactions, pictures, warnings, and user ratings Nifedipine (initially BAY a1040, then Adalat) was developed by the German pharmaceutical company Bayer, with most initial studies being performed in the early 1970s.