Lercanidipine

What is lercanidipine?

Lercanidipine is a prescription medicine used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It belongs to a group of drugs called calcium channel blockers, which work by relaxing and widening blood vessels. This helps to reduce blood pressure and ease the heart’s workload. It is available under brand names such as Zanidip[1].

What is lercanidipine used for?

Lercanidipine is mainly used to treat high blood pressure. By lowering blood pressure, it helps reduce the risk of serious conditions such as strokes, heart disease, heart attacks, and kidney problems[1].

How does lercanidipine work?

This medicine works by blocking calcium from entering the muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels. Calcium is necessary for these muscles to contract. By reducing calcium entry, lercanidipine causes the blood vessels to relax and widen, which helps to lower blood pressure[1].

Who can take lercanidipine?

Lercanidipine is suitable for most adults aged 18 and over. However, it may not be suitable for people who have severe liver or kidney problems, have recently had a heart attack, or have untreated heart failure or unstable angina. You should also tell your doctor if you have ever had an allergic reaction to lercanidipine or are pregnant, trying to get pregnant or breastfeeding[1]. 

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].  

What is the typical dosage of lercanidipine?

Lercanidipine comes as 10mg and 20mg tablets. The usual starting dose is 10mg, which is taken once daily. If necessary, your doctor or pharmacist may increase this to 20mg once daily. Always follow instructions and do not change your dose without medical advice[1]. 

How do you take lercanidipine?

Take your dose once a day, ideally in the morning and at least 15 minutes before a meal. The important thing is to take it consistently at the same time each day. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not take it with grapefruit juice, as this can increase the risk of side effects by affecting how the medicine is processed in your body[1]. 

Can you stop taking lercanidipine?

You should not stop taking lercanidipine suddenly without medical advice. Stopping the medicine abruptly may cause your blood pressure to rise again, increasing the risk of complications such as heart problems or stroke[1]. 

What do you do if you take too much lercanidipine?

If you take more than your prescribed dose, you may feel very dizzy, faint, or notice a rapid heartbeat. Seek medical attention immediately or go to your nearest A&E. If possible, take the medication packaging with you[1]. 

What do you do if you forget to take lercanidipine?

If you forget a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one and continue as normal. Do not take two doses at once to make up for a missed dose[1]. 

What medicines can’t you take with lercanidipine?

Some medicines and substances can interact with lercanidipine, so it’s important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before starting anything new. Tell your doctor if you’re taking: 

• Ciclosporin (an immunosuppressant) 

• Certain antifungal medications such as ketoconazole, voriconazole, or itraconazole 

• Ritonavir (used to treat HIV) 

• Antibiotics like erythromycin or clarithromycin 

• Breathing medications like aminophylline or theophylline 

• Heart medicines like digoxin, amiodarone, sotalol, or metoprolol 

• Rifampicin (for tuberculosis) 

• Epilepsy medication such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, or primidone 

Also, never take lercanidipine with grapefruit juice. 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of lercanidipine?

The most common side effects may include[1]: 

• Headache 

• Diarrhoea 

• Abdominal pain 

• Tiredness 

The rare, but more serious side effects include[1]: 

• Muscle pain or weakness (especially if taken with a statin) 

• Liver issues (your doctor may monitor this with blood tests) 

• Dark urine or difficulty peeing 

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]:  

• Difficulty breathing  

• Tightness in throat and chest  

• Swelling of the tongue or throat  

• Feeling faint or dizzy  

• Blue/grey skin or lips  

• Loss of consciousness 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2].

Frequently asked questions about lercanidipine

How long does lercanidipine take to work? 
It begins to work within a few hours, but it may take up to two weeks to reach its full effect[1]. 

Can I drink alcohol while taking lercanidipine? 
Yes, in moderation. However, alcohol can further lower your blood pressure and make side effects like dizziness worse[1]. 

Can I drive or operate machinery on lercanidipine? 
Yes but avoid driving if you feel dizzy or lightheaded after taking it[1]. 

Is lercanidipine safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding? 
It is not usually recommended. Speak to your doctor or pharmacist if you are pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding[1]. 

What if I get swollen ankles? 
This is a common side effect. Let your doctor or pharmacist know if it becomes uncomfortable or persistent[1]. 

Can I take painkillers with lercanidipine? 
Paracetamol is safe to use. Avoid anti-inflammatory painkillers such as ibuprofen unless your doctor says otherwise[1]. 

Will I need to take lercanidipine for life? 
Possibly. High blood pressure often needs long-term treatment to stay controlled[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to lercanidipine, visit their website.