Lacidipine

Lacidipine is indicated for the treatment of hypertension either alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents, including ß-blockers, diuretics, ACE-inhibitors etc.

Lacidipine inhibits the influx of calcium into smooth muscle cells by the competitive inhibition of voltage-dependent calcium 'L' channels. This action results in the inhibition of the effects triggered by the influx of calcium into the cells, such as the activation of the contractile proteins in smooth muscle.

The recommended initial dose of Lacidipine is 2 mg once daily. The dose may be increased to 4 mg and then, if necessary, to 6 mg after 3 to 4 weeks. Lacidipine should be taken preferably in the morning.

The plasma concentration of Lacidipine may be increased by simultaneous administration of cimetidine. No specific pharmacodynamic interaction problems have been identified in studies with common antihypertensive agents or with digoxin, tolbutamide or warfarin.

Hypersensitivity to any ingredient of this product, cardiogenic shock, unstable angina, aortic stenosis, avoid within 1 month of myocardial infarction, impaired left ventricular function.

Lacidipine is generally well tolerated. Some individuals may experience minor side effects like flushing, palpitation, edema, headache, dizziness, rarely gastro-intestinal disturbances, gum hyperplasia, mood disturbances, asthenia, polyuria, muscle cramps, skin rash etc.

Pregnancy: There are no data on the safety of Lacidipine in human pregnancy. Lacidipine provides no evidence of a teratogenic effect in animal study.

Lactation: Milk transfer studies in animals have shown that Lacidipine (or its metabolites) are likely to be excreted into breast milk. There is, however, no clinical experience of Lacidipine in pregnancy and lactation. Accordingly, Lacidipine should not be used during pregnancy or lactation.

Cardiac conduction abnormalities, poor cardiac reserves, hepatic impairment, withdraw if ischemic pain occurs shortly after initiating treatment or if cardiogenic shock develops, avoid grape fruit juice.

Symptoms: Prolonged peripheral vasodilation associated with hypotension and tachycardia, bradycardia or prolonged AV conduction.

Management: Symptomatic and supportive treatment.

Calcium-channel blockers.

Use in Neonates: There are no data on safety or efficacy of Lacidipine in neonates.
Use in children: Treatment with Lacidipine have not been evaluated in Children.
Hepatic Impairment: Severe: Reduce dose.

Store in a cool and dry place, protect from light and moisture. Keep out of the reach of children.