Negligible sublingual absorption of nifedipine

The sublingual absorption of nifedipine was investigated in 11 healthy volunteers. After the subjects bit a capsule containing 10 mg nifedipine in solution and did not swallow for 20 min (at which time the mouth was washed out), absorption was slow and led to low plasma levels (median 10 ng/ml). After the same subjects bit and swallowed a capsule, absorption was faster and higher plasma levels were achieved 982 ng/ml). Biting a capsule and swallowing its contents is recommended in cardiovascular emergencies.