Lercanidipina Eg (Lercanidipine Hydrochloride)

Lercanidipine is a calcium channel blocker used to manage high blood pressure and related conditions.

• Essential hypertension: lowers systolic and diastolic blood pressure to target levels
• Isolated systolic hypertension: reduces elevated systolic pressure, especially in elderly patients
• Hypertension in patients with diabetes: assists in achieving recommended blood pressure goals while maintaining glycemic control

• Lercanidipine selectively inhibits L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, preventing calcium influx that is necessary for contraction. This vasodilatory effect reduces peripheral vascular resistance, leading to a decrease in arterial blood pressure without significant impact on heart rate or cardiac contractility.

Lercanidipine may cause a range of adverse reactions, varying from mild to severe.

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate intensity, often transient
• Flushing: warmth and redness, typically resolves with continued therapy
• Peripheral edema: swelling of ankles or lower limbs
• Dizziness or light‑headedness: especially after standing
• Tachycardia: increased heart rate without other cardiac symptoms
• Palpitations: sensation of irregular heartbeat

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Angioedema: swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat requiring immediate medical attention
• Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure causing faintness or shock
• Myocardial infarction: rare occurrence of heart attack symptoms
• Hepatic dysfunction: abnormal liver enzymes or hepatitis
• Severe allergic reactions: rash, itching, or anaphylaxis
• Stevens‑Johnson syndrome: rare skin blistering disorder

Before initiating therapy, clinicians should evaluate patient‑specific factors and monitor for potential complications.

• Monitor blood pressure: ensure adequate control and avoid excessive hypotension
• Assess for peripheral edema: consider dose adjustment or diuretic therapy if swelling develops
• Caution in hepatic impairment: reduced metabolism may increase drug exposure
• Avoid abrupt discontinuation: tapering may be needed to prevent rebound hypertension
• Review concomitant CYP3A4 inhibitors: dose may require adjustment
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct sunlight

Lercanidipine can interact with several medicines, influencing its efficacy or safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin): may raise plasma concentrations and increase adverse effects
• Strong CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine): may lower drug levels, reducing antihypertensive effect
• Concurrent use with other potent antihypertensives (e.g., ACE inhibitors, other calcium channel blockers): risk of excessive blood pressure reduction

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely):\n- Simvastatin or other statins metabolized by CYP3A4: increased risk of myopathy

• Grapefruit juice: can elevate lercanidipine concentrations
• Diuretics: may enhance hypotensive response, requiring closer blood pressure monitoring