Let's take a minute to talk about your medication. 

This is nifedipine and you should take it exactly as directed by your doctor, at the same time each day. It's a special 'extended-release' tablet, so you should swallow it whole and don't break, crush or chew it. You might see the empty tablet shell in your stool, but this is normal. 

Nifedipine is used to treat high blood pressure. Controlling high blood pressure is important, because it can reduce your risk of having a heart attack, stroke, kidney failure and vision problems. 

Nifedipine is also used to prevent certain types of chest pain. This medicine is usually well-tolerated, but some side effects can occur, like headache, feeling flushed or mild swelling in the ankles. It can also cause dizziness, and you can reduce this by standing slowly after sitting or lying down. These effects are normal if they are mild and should go away. If these or other side effects become reasons you want to stop taking this medicine, please talk to your doctor or pharmacist. But, don't suddenly stop taking it unless your doctor says it's okay. 

In rare cases, more serious side effects could occur. You should call your doctor if you notice any unusual changes to your body, like a rash, shortness of breath, changes in heart beats, or worsening chest pain. 

For best results, plan ahead for refills and continue taking nifedipine. You should also follow your doctor's advice about checking your own blood pressure.