Nidipres (Lercanidipine Hydrochloride)

Lercanidipine is a calcium channel blocker used to manage hypertension by relaxing arterial smooth muscle.

• Hypertension: reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure in adults with primary hypertension.
• Essential hypertension: helps achieve target blood pressure levels when lifestyle measures are insufficient.
• High blood pressure: contributes to cardiovascular risk reduction as part of a comprehensive antihypertensive regimen.

• Lercanidipine selectively inhibits L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, preventing calcium influx that triggers contraction. This leads to arterial vasodilation, decreased peripheral vascular resistance, and ultimately a reduction in systemic blood pressure without significant effect on cardiac contractility.

Lercanidipine is generally well tolerated, but some patients may experience adverse reactions.

Common Side Effects

• Headache: mild to moderate intensity.
• Flushing: transient warmth and redness of the skin.
• Peripheral edema: swelling of the ankles or lower legs.
• Dizziness: especially upon standing.
• Tachycardia: increased heart rate.
• Fatigue: feeling unusually tired.

Serious or Rare Side Effects

• Angioedema: swelling of the face, lips, or throat requiring immediate medical attention.
• Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure causing faintness or shock.
• Myocardial infarction: rare occurrence of heart attack.
• Hepatic dysfunction: abnormal liver enzyme elevations.
• Allergic reactions: rash, itching, or anaphylaxis.

Before initiating therapy with Nidipres, consider the following safety measures.

• Blood pressure monitoring: measure baseline and periodic readings to assess response.
• Renal impairment: use cautiously in patients with severe kidney dysfunction.
• Hepatic impairment: dose adjustment may be needed in moderate to severe liver disease.
• Concomitant CYP3A4 inhibitors: avoid or monitor for increased drug exposure.
• Pregnancy and lactation: safety not established; prescribe only if clearly needed.
• Store at room temperature below 25°C: keep in the original pack, protect from moisture and light.

Lercanidipine may interact with several medicines; awareness helps prevent adverse outcomes.

Major Interactions (Avoid)

• Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole): can raise plasma levels and cause hypotension.
• Grapefruit juice: may increase drug exposure leading to excessive blood pressure lowering.
• Other antihypertensives (e.g., ACE inhibitors, ARBs): combined use may result in excessive blood pressure drop.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely)

• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, carbamazepine): may reduce therapeutic effect.
• Diuretics: concurrent use can increase risk of electrolyte imbalance.
• Beta‑blockers: may mask tachycardia that signals low blood pressure.