Nifedipine
Brand names: Procardia, Adalat|Last verified: 2026-03-01
FAA Pathway: Standard issuance by AME
Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker generally acceptable for FAA certification. As a peripheral vasodilator, it is preferred over centrally-acting antihypertensives. Report on your application.
Related Resources
Pilot Tip
Always report all medications on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8, Item 17a), even OTC medications. Failure to disclose is a far bigger issue than the medication itself.
Certification Details
Sources
- FAA AME Guide — Pharmaceuticals: Antihypertensives (faa.gov/ame_guide/pharm/antihyp)
Last verified: 2026-03-01
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Nifedipine allowed for pilots?
The FAA considers Nifedipine (Procardia, Adalat) to be "Generally Approved" for medical certification purposes. Nifedipine is a calcium channel blocker generally acceptable for FAA certification. As a peripheral vasodilator, it is preferred over centrally-acting antihypertensives. Report on your application.
What is the FAA status of Nifedipine?
Nifedipine has a status of "Generally Approved" under FAA medical certification policy. The certification pathway is: Standard issuance by AME.
Can I fly while taking Nifedipine?
Nifedipine is generally compatible with flying. However, you must report it on your FAA medical application (Form 8500-8) and ensure you are not experiencing side effects that could impair flight safety. Always consult your Aviation Medical Examiner (AME).
Important Notice
The FAA does not publish a comprehensive list of “approved” medications. The information on this page represents our interpretation of publicly available FAA guidance and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice, legal advice, or a guarantee of certification outcome.
The primary issue with the FAA is always whether the underlying medical condition — not just the medication — is compatible with safe flight. You should only start, stop, or change medications after consulting your treating physician. Always consult with a qualified Aviation Medical Examiner (AME) for guidance specific to your situation. FAA policies are subject to change. ClearedMed is not affiliated with or endorsed by the FAA.