Prescription Required 
Formulation : 
Description
Indications
Lercanidipine is employed either as a standalone treatment or in conjunction with other medications to manage high blood pressure. It is a calcium channel blocker, the mechanism of action involves blocking the effects of specific natural substances that cause blood vessels to constrict. By doing so, lercanidipine facilitates smoother blood flow, enhancing the efficiency of the heart’s pumping action.
Uses and Dosage
Lercanidipine is available in tablet form for oral administration. Typically, it is taken once or twice a day, either with or without food. To ensure consistent use, take lercanidipine at approximately the same time(s) every day.
Take lercanidipine exactly as directed, avoiding deviations in dosage, frequency, or duration without your doctor’s approval.
While lercanidipine effectively manages high blood pressure, it does not cure the condition. You may experience a decrease in your blood pressure within the initial two weeks of treatment, but it may take 2 to 3 weeks to observe the full benefits of lercanidipine. Continue taking the medication even if you feel well, and refrain from discontinuing it without consulting your doctor.
Side Effects
Some side effects may occur that usually do not need medical attention:
- excessive tiredness
- stomach pain
- joint pain
Inform your healthcare provider immediately if you experience any serious side effects:
- swelling of the face, throat, tongue, lips, eyes, hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs
- hoarseness
- difficulty breathing or swallowing
Caution
- Before taking lercanidipine, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it, ACE inhibitors (such as captopril, lisinopril), or if you have any other allergies. Inactive ingredients in the product may trigger allergic reactions or other issues.
- Provide your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have liver disease, a high level of potassium in the blood, or a history of dehydration.
- This medication may cause dizziness. The consumption of alcohol or marijuana can exacerbate this effect. Avoid activities requiring alertness, such as driving or using machinery, until you can do so safely.
- Severe sweating, diarrhea, or vomiting may lead to dehydration and lightheadedness. Inform your doctor if you experience severe diarrhea or vomiting. To prevent dehydration, drink ample fluids unless advised otherwise by your doctor.
- Lercanidipine may increase potassium levels. Consult your doctor or pharmacist before using potassium supplements or salt substitutes containing potassium.
- Inform your doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. You should not become pregnant while using lercanidipine, as it may harm an unborn baby. If you become pregnant, discuss the risks and benefits of this medication with your doctor.
- The passage of this drug into breast milk is unknown. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Form and Strength
Zanidip is available in the following forms and strengths:
- lercanidipine tablet:
- 10 mg
- 20 mg
FAQ
How long does Zanidip take to work?
Zanidip starts to work on the day you start taking it, but it may take a couple of weeks for full effect.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Zanidip?
Yes, you can drink alcohol in moderation with Zanidip. However, drinking alcohol can increase the blood pressure-lowering effect of Zanidip, which can make you feel sleepy or dizzy or bring on a headache.
Resources
- https://www.nhs.uk/medicines/lercanidipine/common-questions-about-lercanidipine/
- https://www.news-medical.net/drugs/Zanidip.aspx
- https://www.drugs.com/uk/zanidip-20mg-tablets-leaflet.html
- https://patient.info/medicine/lercanidipine-tablets-for-high-blood-pressure-zanidip
- https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/medicines/brand/amt,4164011000036108/zanidip
