'Nifedipine' originates from a combination of chemical nomenclature, where 'ni-' refers to the nitro group, 'fe-' is derived from phenyl, and '-dipine' is a common suffix for dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers.

'Nifedipine' was developed in the late 20th century as a part of the dihydropyridine class of calcium channel blockers.

Initially, it was developed to treat angina, but its use expanded to include the management of high blood pressure.