CILACAR 5 Tablet 15's

Introduction About CILACAR 5MG TABLET

Cilacar 5mg Tablet contains Cilnidipine, which belongs to a class of medicines called calcium channel blockers. It is commonly prescribed by healthcare professionals for managing high blood pressure and related conditions.

Before taking CILACAR 5MG TABLET, inform your doctor if you have any liver or kidney problems and severe hypotension (low blood pressure), edema or congestive heart failure.

CILACAR 5MG TABLET is not recommended for use in patients with narrowing of heart valves. Consult your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Common side effects of taking CILACAR 5MG TABLET are swelling of ankles or other body parts, headache, dizziness, flushing, skin rashes and gingival hyperplasia (enlargement or overgrowth of the gums). Contact your doctor if any of these side effects trouble you.

Uses Of CILACAR 5MG TABLET

• Hypertension and its associated vascular disorders
• Hypertension for end organ protection

Benefits of CILACAR 5MG TABLET

• Helps maintain healthy blood pressure levels
• Supports heart health
• Reduces strain on blood vessels

How CILACAR 5MG TABLET Works

Action on Blood Vessels (L-type channels):

• Cilnidipine relaxes the blood vessels by blocking L-type calcium channels.
• This relaxation allows blood to flow more smoothly, which helps in maintaining stable blood pressure.

Action on Nerves Controlling Blood Pressure (N-type channels):

• Unlike many calcium channel blockers, Cilnidipine also works on N-type calcium channels.
• This reduces excess nerve activity that can raise blood pressure levels, providing a gentler control on circulation.

How to use CILACAR 5MG TABLET

Directions for Using Cilacar 5mg Tablet

Take Cilacar 5mg exactly as advised by your healthcare provider. It is usually prescribed for the management of high blood pressure and related conditions. Always follow the recommended schedule without altering the dose on your own.

Recommended Dosage Guidelines for Cilacar 5mg

• The dosage is generally individualized based on age, health condition, and response.
• Adults are most often prescribed one tablet daily, but your doctor may adjust the strength (5mg, 10mg, or higher) depending on your needs.
• Do not increase or decrease the dose without medical advice.

Best Time to Take Cilacar 5mg Tablet

• Cilacar 5mg is usually taken once a day, at the same time daily.
• Many people prefer to take it in the morning, but it can also be taken in the evening if your doctor recommends.
• Consistency is more important than the exact timing.

Should Cilacar 5mg Be Taken With or Without Food?

• Cilacar 5mg can be taken with or without food.
• Taking it after a light meal may help avoid dizziness in some individuals.

How to Swallow and Handle Cilacar 5mg Tablet

• Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
• Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet.
• Handle the strip carefully and store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

What if I forgot to take CILACAR 5MG TABLET

• If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember.
• If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose do not double up.
• Stick to your regular schedule.

Side Effects Of CILACAR 5MG TABLET

Common Side Effects of CILACAR 5MG TABLET:

• swelling of the ankles or other body parts
• headache, dizziness, sleepiness
• palpitations (fast heartbeat)
• flushing (redness and warmth of the skin)
• stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, constipation, indigestion
• changes in bowel habit
• tiredness, weakness
• increased urination at night
• gingival hyperplasia (enlargement of gums with inflammation)

Rare but Notable Side Effects of Cilacar 5mg

While most people tolerate Cilacar 5mg well, some may experience side effects that are less common but worth being aware of:

• Swelling in ankles or feet (edema)
• Rapid heartbeat or palpitations
• Mild gastrointestinal discomfort (nausea, stomach upset)
• Excessive tiredness or unusual weakness
• Allergic skin reactions (rashes, itching, redness)

Long-Term Use: What to Know About Cilacar 5mg

• Monitoring is essential – Regular check-ups of blood pressure, kidney function, and heart health are recommended.
• Tolerance is generally good – Many patients continue Cilacar for extended periods without major issues.
• Lifestyle matters – Combining the medicine with a balanced diet, reduced salt intake, regular exercise, and stress management helps achieve better outcomes.
• Elderly patients may require adjustments – Doctors may fine-tune the dosage to minimize side effects like dizziness or swelling.
• Stopping suddenly is not advised – Discontinuing without medical advice may cause fluctuations in blood pressure.

Warning & Precautions

Pregnancy

Monitoring required

CILACAR 5MG TABLET should be used in pregnant women only if it is considered necessary by the physician. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Breastfeeding

Use with Caution

CILACAR 5MG TABLET should be used with caution in breastfeeding women as it may pass through the breast milk to the nursing infant. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Driving and Using Machines

Use with Caution

Do not drive or operate any heavy tools or machines if you feel dizzy after taking CILACAR 5MG TABLET.

Alcohol

Consult your doctor

Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking CILACAR 5MG TABLET as it could make you feel dizzier.

Kidney

Use with Caution

CILACAR 5MG TABLET should be used with caution in patients with kidney problems. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Liver

Use with Caution

CILACAR 5MG TABLET should be used with caution in patients with liver problems. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Allergy

Contraindicated

Do not take CILACAR 5MG TABLET if you are allergic to Cilnidipine.

Heart Disease

Consult your doctor

CILACAR 5MG TABLET is not recommended for use in patients with severe heart problems such as heart failure or aortic stenosis (narrowing of arteries). It should be used with caution in patients with angina or heart failure. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Use In Pediatrics

Monitoring required

CILACAR 5MG TABLET should be used in children and adolescents (aged below 18 years) only if prescribed by the physician. Therefore, consult your doctor before administration.

Use In Geriatrics

Use with Caution

CILACAR 5MG TABLET should be used with caution in elderly patients (aged 65 years or older). Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Other Warnings for CILACAR 5MG TABLET

Before taking CILACAR 5MG TABLET, inform your doctor if you have:

• severe low blood pressure (hypotension)
• edema (swelling of body parts)

Diet and Lifestyle Advice

Managing blood pressure is not only about taking medicines — healthy habits and lifestyle choices play a big role in supporting overall heart health. Here are some practical tips:

Diet Tips

• Limit salt intake – Reduce processed foods, pickles, papads, and salty snacks.
• Eat more fruits and vegetables – Choose potassium-rich foods like bananas, oranges, spinach, and sweet potatoes.
• Prefer whole grains – Brown rice, oats, and whole wheat help in maintaining stable blood pressure.
• Cut down on saturated fats – Replace fried foods and red meat with lean protein and healthy fats (olive oil, nuts, seeds).
• Stay hydrated – Drink sufficient water through the day unless otherwise advised.
• Limit caffeine and alcohol – Too much coffee or alcohol may interfere with blood pressure control.

Lifestyle Tips

• Stay physically active – Aim for at least 30 minutes of light to moderate activity such as walking, yoga, or cycling (as per your doctor’s advice).
• Maintain a healthy weight – Even small reductions in weight can help support blood pressure balance.
• Reduce stress – Deep breathing, meditation, or relaxation techniques can help.
• Sleep well – Try to get 7–8 hours of quality sleep every night.
• Avoid smoking – Smoking can strain the heart and blood vessels.
• Monitor blood pressure regularly – Keep track at home or during clinic visits.

Drug - Drug interaction

Cilacar 5mg (Cilnidipine) may interact with certain other medicines. These interactions can affect how the medicine works or increase the chances of side effects. Always share your complete medication list with your healthcare provider, including over-the-counter products and supplements.

Common Medicine Groups That May Interact with Cilacar 5mg

• Other Blood Pressure Medicines
  (Amlodipine, Nifedipine, Beta-blockers, ACE inhibitors, ARBs)
  May increase the blood pressure-lowering effect.
• Water Pills (Diuretics)
  (Furosemide, Hydrochlorothiazide, Spironolactone)
  Can enhance dizziness or excessive drop in blood pressure.
• Heart Medicines
  (Digoxin, Anti-arrhythmic drugs)
  May increase the risk of irregular heartbeat or excessive slowing of heart rate.
• Cholesterol-Lowering Medicines
  (Statins like Atorvastatin, Simvastatin)
  Generally safe, but dose adjustments may be required in some cases.
• Anti-inflammatory Medicines (NSAIDs)
  (Ibuprofen, Diclofenac, Naproxen)
  May reduce the blood pressure-lowering effect of Cilacar.
• Antidepressants & Anti-anxiety Medicines
  (SSRIs, Benzodiazepines)
  Can increase drowsiness and dizziness when taken together.
• Alcohol
  May enhance blood pressure drop, causing fainting or dizziness.

Synopsis

More Information

Cilacar 5mg vs. Similar Medicines

Did You Know? – Cilacar 5mg Tablet

• Dual Action Advantage: Unlike many calcium channel blockers, Cilnidipine in Cilacar 5mg works on both L-type and N-type calcium channels, helping provide smoother blood pressure control.
• Less Ankle Swelling: Studies suggest Cilnidipine may cause less ankle and leg swelling compared to older medicines like Amlodipine.
• Japan-Origin Medicine: Cilnidipine was first developed in Japan and later introduced in India, where it has gained wide acceptance.
• Once-a-Day Convenience: Cilacar 5mg is usually prescribed once daily, making it easier for patients to follow their medicine routine.
• Preferred in Sensitive Patients: Because of its gentle effect on the nervous system (N-type channel blocking), some doctors prefer Cilnidipine in patients who experience fast heartbeat or excessive swelling with other calcium channel blockers.

FAQs About CILACAR 5MG TABLET

Q: What are the uses of CILACAR 5MG TABLET?

A: CILACAR 5MG TABLET is used to manage hypertension and its associated vascular disorders. It can also be used to manage the risk of angina, heart attack or stroke.

Q: What type of a medicine is CILACAR 5MG TABLET?

A: CILACAR 5MG TABLET is an antihypertensive medicine. It contains cilnidipine which is a calcium channel blocker. It reduces strain on the heart, relaxes blood vessels and makes the heart to pump more blood with lesser force.

Q: What happens when I stop taking CILACAR 5MG TABLET?

A: Do not stop taking CILACAR 5MG TABLET without consulting your doctor as your blood pressure may raise once again. Make sure to take it for the stipulated duration recommended by your doctor to achieve maximum results.

Q: What is the best time to take CILACAR 5MG TABLET?

A: CILACAR 5MG TABLET can be taken with or without meals. Your doctor will decide the best time for you to take CILACAR 5MG TABLET based on your age, body weight and disease condition.

Q: What to do if I forgot to take a dose of CILACAR 5MG TABLET?

A: If you have missed a dose of CILACAR 5MG TABLET, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is time for the next dose of CILACAR 5MG TABLET, skip the missed dose and take the next one regularly. Do not take a double dose to compensate the missed ones.

Q: What precautions should be followed while taking CILACAR 5MG TABLET?

A: Before taking inform your doctor if you have any liver or kidney problems. You must also inform your doctor if you have severe high or low blood pressure, or other heart problems (such as narrowing of the arteries, or a recent heart attack). Consult your doctor before taking CILACAR 5MG TABLET if you are pregnant and breastfeeding. Regularly visit your doctor and take all the necessary blood test recommended by your doctor without fail.

Q: Can I consume alcohol while taking CILACAR 5MG TABLET?

A: Avoid consumption of alcohol while taking CILACAR 5MG TABLET as it might make you feel dizzier and drowsier.

Q: What happens if I accidentally take more CILACAR 5MG TABLET?

A: If you or anyone else accidentally took more CILACAR 5MG TABLET, consult your doctor immediately. Symptoms of overdosage might include dizziness, fainting, light-headedness, weakness, shock, cool or clampy skin and shortness of breath.

Q: Can I take CILACAR 5MG TABLET daily?

A: Take CILACAR 5MG TABLET as advised by your physician. Your doctor will evaluate your health condition and suggests whether can you take CILACAR 5MG TABLET every day or not.

Q: Can CILACAR 5MG TABLET cause ankle swelling?

A: CILACAR 5MG TABLET may cause edema or swelling of ankles in few patients. If you experience ankle swelling, keep your legs on a table or slightly elevated from the ground level. If this symptom bothers you, contact your doctor.

Q: What are the side effects of CILACAR 5MG TABLET?

A: The most common side effects of taking CILACAR 5MG TABLET are swelling of ankles or other body parts, headache, dizziness, flushing, skin rashes and gingival hyperplasia (enlargement or overgrowth of the gums). Contact your doctor if any of these side effects trouble you.

Q: Can I stop taking CILACAR 5MG TABLET once my symptoms subside?

A: No. Do not stop taking without consulting your doctor. As hypertension is a chronic condition, long term management may be necessary to control its symptoms. Therefore, take CILACAR 5MG TABLET as advised by your doctor for the stipulated duration. Premature discontinuation of therapy may increase your blood pressure once again.

Q: Can CILACAR 5MG TABLET be taken during pregnancy?

A: It should be used in pregnant women only if it is considered necessary by the physician. Therefore, consult your doctor before taking it.

Q: Can the use of CILACAR 5MG TABLET affect the liver?

A: Yes. CILACAR 5MG TABLET may affect the way your liver work. Therefore, it should be used with caution in patients with liver problems. Consult your doctor before taking it.

References

1. Lionel H. Opie. Calcium channel blockers. Drugs for the heart. 8th Edition. 2013. Page- 88-89.

2. Junichi Minami, Yuhei Kawano, Yuriko Makino, Hiroaki Matsuoka and Shuichi Takishita. Effects of cilnidipine, a novel dihydropyridine calcium antagonist, on autonomic function, ambulatory blood pressure and heart rate in patients with essential hypertension. NIH. National Library of Medicine, National Center for biotechnology information. PMC. PubMed Central. September 2016. [Accessed on 18th August 2025] 

3. Unique pharmaceutical laboratories. Cilacar 20mg. September 2017. [Accessed on 18th August 2025] 

4. Cilnidipine. Centaurpharma.com. [Accessed on 18th August 2025] 

5. Cilocab. Cilnidipine. ACL limited. [Accessed on 18th August 2025] 

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Author Details

Written By Dr. Karthikeyan Rajagopal - M.Pharm (Pharmacology)

Reviewed For Accuracy By Dr. Thamada Manikanta Praveen - MBBS, MD (General Medicine)

Last updated on 20 Aug 2025 | 02:53 PM(IST)