Lercadip 10 mg is a prescription medication containing the active ingredient Lercanidipine Hydrochloride. It belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers, which work by relaxing and widening blood vessels. This action improves blood flow and lowers high blood pressure. It is indicated for the treatment of hypertension in adults and, when taken consistently, helps reduce the risk of long-term cardiovascular complications.
What is lercadip used for?
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Treats mild-to-moderate essential hypertension (high blood pressure with no identifiable secondary cause).
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Maintains blood pressure levels within targeted, healthy parameters.
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Reduces the risk of severe hypertensive complications, such as heart disease, myocardial infarction (heart attack), and strokes.
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Monotherapy or Combination Therapy: Can be prescribed alone or concurrently with other antihypertensive medications.
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Gradual onset of action: Its pharmacological profile ensures a gradual reduction in blood pressure, minimizing the likelihood of sudden, acute hypotension.
How to Use Lercadip 10 mg Tablets
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The standard dose is one tablet (10 mg) once daily, or as strictly directed by your treating physician.
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Take the medication in the morning at least 15 minutes before a meal, as food can significantly alter its absorption.
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Swallow the tablet whole with a sufficient amount of water; do not chew, crush, or break it.
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Your physician may titrate the dosage up to 20 mg daily based on your therapeutic response and blood pressure readings.
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It is highly recommended to take this medication at the exact same time every day to achieve optimal efficacy.
Side Effects of Lercadip 10 mg
Common side effects may include:
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Headache
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Dizziness
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Flushing (redness and a sensation of warmth in the face/neck)
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Palpitations or tachycardia (increased heart rate)
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Peripheral edema (swelling of the ankles or feet)
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Asthenia (fatigue or general bodily weakness)
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Nausea or dyspepsia (heartburn) in some cases
If any of these side effects persist, worsen, or become troublesome, consult your physician promptly.
Precautions and Warnings
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Contraindications: Do not use if you suffer from severe, uncontrolled heart failure, unstable angina pectoris, or if you have had a myocardial infarction within the last month.
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Use with caution in patients with hepatic (liver) or renal (kidney) impairment.
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Use during pregnancy or lactation is not recommended unless deemed absolutely necessary by your doctor.
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This medication can cause dizziness; exercise extreme caution when driving or operating heavy machinery.
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Not recommended for use in children and adolescents under 18 years of age due to a lack of clinical data.
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Alcohol Warning: Avoid drinking alcohol during treatment, as it can compound the drug's effects and trigger severe low blood pressure.
Dietary Warning: Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking Lercadip. Grapefruit inhibits the enzymes that break down this medication, which can dangerously increase its concentration in your blood and lead to severe hypotension.
Drug Interactions
Lercadip may interact with several medications. Inform your physician or pharmacist if you are taking any of the following:
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Antifungals (e.g., Ketoconazole, Itraconazole).
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Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., Erythromycin, Clarithromycin).
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Cyclosporine (immunosuppressant).
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Antiepileptic drugs (e.g., Carbamazepine, Phenytoin).
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Rifampicin (antituberculosis agent).
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Digoxin.
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Simvastatin (cholesterol-lowering drug).
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Other blood pressure-lowering medications.
Storage Conditions
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Store at a temperature not exceeding 25°C.
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Keep in the original blister pack to protect the tablets from moisture and direct light.
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Keep safely out of reach of children.
Ingredients
Lercadip 10 mg active ingredient:
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Lercanidipine Hydrochloride 10 mg per tablet.
Inactive Ingredients (Excipients):
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Lactose Monohydrate, Microcrystalline Cellulose, Povidone, Magnesium Stearate, Sodium Starch Glycolate.
Coating Materials:
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Hypromellose, Macrogol, Talc, Yellow Iron Oxide (E172), Titanium Dioxide (E171).
