Lercanidipine Biogaran (Lercanidipine Hydrochloride)

• Lercanidipine is a dihydropyridine calcium‑channel blocker used in the treatment of elevated blood pressure.
• Hypertension: lowers elevated blood pressure, helping to reduce the risk of cardiovascular complications.

• Lercanidipine selectively blocks L‑type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, reducing calcium influx. This inhibition leads to relaxation of arterial smooth muscle, resulting in vasodilation and a consequent decrease in systemic vascular resistance and arterial blood pressure.

Lercanidipine may cause a range of adverse reactions, most of which are mild and transient.

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate intensity, often transient.
• Flushing: sensation of warmth and redness, usually resolves without intervention.
• Peripheral edema: swelling of the ankles or lower legs.
• Dizziness or light‑headedness, especially after standing.
• Nausea: occasional mild gastrointestinal upset.
• Tachycardia: slight increase in heart rate.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Angioedema: swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat requiring urgent care.
• Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure leading to fainting.
• Hepatic dysfunction: abnormal liver enzymes or hepatitis.
• Allergic reactions: rash, pruritus, or anaphylaxis.
• Myocardial infarction: rare occurrence of heart attack.
• Cardiac arrhythmias: irregular heart rhythms.

• Before initiating therapy, clinicians should evaluate patient‑specific factors and monitor for potential complications.
• Blood pressure monitoring: measure BP before starting treatment and periodically thereafter.
• Renal impairment: use with caution in patients with severe renal dysfunction.
• Hepatic impairment: dose adjustment may be required in moderate to severe liver disease.
• Concomitant CYP3A4 inhibitors: may increase plasma levels, monitor for adverse effects.
• Store at room temperature: keep in the original container, protect from moisture and direct light.

Lercanidipine can interact with several drug classes, influencing its efficacy and safety.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin): may cause significant increase in lercanidipine exposure.
• Grapefruit juice: can markedly increase plasma concentration.
• Other antihypertensives (e.g., ACE inhibitors, diuretics): risk of excessive hypotension.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine): may reduce therapeutic effect.
• Beta‑blockers: additive effect on blood pressure and heart rate.
• Lithium: may increase lithium serum levels, requiring monitoring.