Question:
A friend of mine has just had nifedical ordered. (Procardia) Has
anyone taken this? What kind of side-effects did you experience?
Any idea why his hydrochlorothiazide may have been stopped and this
new medicine ordered? :?

Answer:
Hey Sarie, how are you doing? Analysis of chuifong toukuwan from
various sources found indomethacin, hydrochlorothiazide,
chlordiazepoxide, lead, and cadmium. In 1980, several illnesses and
another death were linked to use of Chinese herbal medications,
particularly chuifong toukuwan. Investigation has shown that the
pills originate from several sources, and usually enter the country
via air mail shipments to health food stores, oriental food stores,
novelty shops, and individual consumers. They are occasionally sold
door-to- door. The labeling fails to bear adequate directions for use
for its intended purposes (misbranded; 502(f)(1) and it appears to be
a new dug without an effective new drug application [unapproved new
drug; 505(a)]". When unaccompanied by drug claims, charge: "The
article is subject to refusal of admission pursuant to 801(a)(3) in
that it appears the labeling fails to bear adequate directions for
use for its intended purposes [misbranded; 502(f)(1)]". Secondly,
as far as the side effects of nifedical, non are expected. Call your
doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects: - chest
pain (may be related to your disease and not a side effect) -fast,
irregular, or pounding heartbeat -skin rash, swelling in the ankles
or feet -unusual tiredness or weakness, wheezing or trouble
breathing. If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with
your doctor: - Dizziness or lightheadedness - Flushing or feeling
warm - Headache - Nausea or stomach discomfort - Runny or stuffy
nose For more information on the investigation of Chinese herbal
medications, visit the FDA (Food And Drug Administration) website.
Best wishes,