Lercanidipine

It is a new long-acting dihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blocker (CCB) which selectively inhibits the influx of extracellular calcium through voltage-gated calcium channels.

Indications

Mild to moderate hypertension.

Dosage

Initially 10mg once daily, increased, if necessary, after at least 2 weeks to 20mg daily.

Contra-Indications

Aortic stenosis, unstable angina, uncontrolled heart failure within 1 month of myocardial infarction, pregnancy and breast-feeding.

Special Precautions

In hepatic and renal impairment, left ventricular dysfunction, sick sinus syndrome (if pacemaker not fitted), avoid grape fruit juice (may affect metabolism).

Side Effects

Flusing, peripheral oedema, palpitation, tachycardia, headache, dizziness, asthenia, G.I.distrubance, hypotension, drowsiness, myalgia, polyuria, rash.

Drug Interactions

No notable drug interactions observed, cytochrome P-450 3A4 inhibitor (itraconazole) may alter the pharmacokinetics of lercanidipine.