Which of the following is a common adverse effect of nifedipine?

• A. Peripheral edema
• B. Hypertension
• C. Tinnitus
• D. Diarrhea

Answer: (B)

Peripheral edema is the most common adverse effect of nifedipine. This drug is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker that preferentially dilates systemic arterioles, lowering vascular resistance. The arteriolar dilation increases capillary hydrostatic pressure, which drives fluid out of the vessels into the interstitial space, often accumulating in dependent areas like the feet and ankles. This edema is dose-related and can be more noticeable with longer-acting formulations.

Hypertension is something nifedipine helps treat, so it’s not an adverse effect. Tinnitus and diarrhea are not characteristic adverse effects associated with nifedipine.