Nifedipine Gingival Overgrowth — MFDS Part 1 MCQ
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Correct answer: C — Nifedipine (calcium-channel blocker)
Nifedipine is the correct answer. It is a dihydropyridine calcium-channel blocker used for hypertension and stable angina, and its UK SmPC lists gingival hyperplasia as a rare adverse effect. The preferred clinical term is drug-induced gingival overgrowth. Calcium-channel blockers are a recognised causative drug group, with nifedipine being a classic examination association. Atenolol, ramipril, simvastatin and aspirin have important adverse effects but are not the characteristic cardiovascular drugs associated with this gingival change. In affected patients, plaque-related inflammation may increase the clinical severity, so periodontal assessment and effective plaque control are important; any proposed alteration of cardiovascular medication must be discussed with the patient's prescriber.
Reference: Bayer plc. Adalat LA 30 mg prolonged-release tablets: Summary of Product Characteristics, section 4.8 Undesirable effects. Updated 19 May 2026. https://www.medicines.org.uk/emc/product/6180/smpc