Lercanidipino Aristo (Lercanidipine Hydrochloride)

Lercanidipine acts on the vascular smooth muscle to lower elevated blood pressure in patients with hypertension.

• Hypertension: reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure, helping to achieve target levels.
• Essential hypertension: improves long‑term cardiovascular risk management.
• High blood pressure: provides sustained arterial vasodilation for better blood flow control.

• Lercanidipine selectively inhibits calcium influx through L‑type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle cells. By blocking these channels, it prevents calcium‑dependent contraction, leading to arterial vasodilation, decreased peripheral vascular resistance, and ultimately a reduction in systemic blood pressure.

Lercanidipine is generally well tolerated, but several adverse reactions have been reported.

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate intensity, often transient.
• Flushing: sensation of warmth and redness, especially after the first dose.
• Peripheral edema: swelling of the ankles or lower legs.
• Dizziness: may occur with rapid posture changes.
• Tachycardia: occasional increase in heart rate.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure requiring medical attention.
• Myocardial infarction: rare occurrence, especially in patients with pre‑existing coronary disease.
• Elevated liver enzymes: signs of hepatic stress, monitored via laboratory tests.
• Allergic reactions: rash, pruritus, or anaphylaxis in susceptible individuals.

Before initiating therapy with Lercanidipine, several safety considerations should be observed.

• Blood pressure monitoring: ensure adequate control and avoid excessive drops.
• Hepatic impairment: use with caution; dose adjustment may be required.
• Severe aortic stenosis: contraindicated due to risk of hypotension.
• Elderly patients: start at the lowest effective dose and monitor closely.
• Concomitant antihypertensives: assess for additive blood pressure‑lowering effects.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, retain in original packaging, protect from moisture and direct sunlight.

Lercanidipine may interact with other medicines, altering its efficacy or safety profile.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole): increase plasma concentrations.
• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine): reduce therapeutic effect.
• Grapefruit juice: can markedly raise drug levels.
• Other potent vasodilators: risk of severe hypotension.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely):\n- Diuretics: may enhance antihypertensive effect, requiring dose adjustments.

• Beta‑blockers: additive blood pressure reduction.
• NSAIDs: may blunt antihypertensive response.
• Digoxin: monitor for potential changes in serum levels.