Lerdip (Lercanidipine Hydrochloride)

• Lerdip is a calcium channel blocker that acts on the cardiovascular system to control elevated blood pressure.
• Essential hypertension: reduces both systolic and diastolic blood pressure.
• Isolated systolic hypertension: lowers elevated systolic pressure in older adults.
• Secondary hypertension (when appropriate): assists in achieving target blood pressure alongside other therapies.

• Lercanidipine hydrochloride selectively inhibits L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle cells. By blocking calcium influx, it prevents contraction of arterial smooth muscle, leading to vasodilation of peripheral arteries. This reduction in peripheral vascular resistance results in a decrease in systemic blood pressure, helping to control hypertension.

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

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Flushing: transient warmth and redness of the skin.
• Peripheral edema: swelling of the ankles or feet.
• Dizziness or light‑headedness, especially on standing.
• Tachycardia: increased heart rate.
• Fatigue or general weakness.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Angioedema: swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat.
• Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure leading to fainting.
• Myocardial infarction: rare occurrence of heart attack.
• Hepatic enzyme elevation: abnormal liver function tests.
• Allergic reactions: rash, itching, or hives.
• Cardiac arrhythmias: irregular heart rhythms.

Before initiating therapy with Lerdip, certain safety considerations should be observed.

• Renal impairment: monitor kidney function and adjust therapy if needed.
• Hepatic impairment: use with caution and observe liver enzymes.
• Concomitant antihypertensives: watch for additive blood‑pressure lowering effects.
• Pregnancy: avoid unless the potential benefit justifies the risk.
• Elderly patients: start at the lowest effective dose and titrate slowly.
• Store at ambient temperature: keep in the original packaging, protect from moisture and light.

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

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole): may increase plasma concentrations.
• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine): may reduce therapeutic effect.
• Grapefruit juice: can markedly raise drug levels.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely):\n- Diuretics: risk of excessive blood‑pressure reduction.

• Beta‑blockers: additive hypotensive effect.
• Non‑steroidal anti‑inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): may blunt antihypertensive response.