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Lacidipine: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Lacidipine is a long-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker indicated for the treatment of hypertension.

Forms:Tablet

About Lacidipine

Indications of Lacidipine

Lacidipine is a long-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker indicated for the treatment of hypertension.

  • Essential hypertension (established use): Lacidipine is indicated for the management of essential hypertension, used either as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive agents (such as thiazide diuretics or beta-blockers) when blood pressure is not adequately controlled on a single agent.

Lacidipine has not been shown to provide additional benefit for secondary prevention after myocardial infarction and is not indicated for this purpose. The safety and efficacy of Lacidipine in hypertensive emergencies (malignant hypertension) have not been established, and it should not be used for that indication.

Dosage & Administration of Lacidipine

Hypertension (Adults)

StepDose of LacidipineNotes
Starting dose2 mg once dailyTaken preferably in the morning
TitrationIncrease to 4 mg once daily after 3–4 weeks if neededBased on blood pressure response
Maximum dose6 mg once dailyDoses of Lacidipine above 6 mg daily provide no additional antihypertensive benefit

Pediatric Use

The safety and efficacy of Lacidipine have not been established in children; Lacidipine is therefore not recommended for use in the pediatric population.

Renal Impairment

No dosage adjustment of Lacidipine is generally required in renal impairment, since Lacidipine and its metabolites are not significantly cleared by the kidney; caution is still advised in severe renal disease.

Hepatic Impairment

Because Lacidipine is extensively metabolized by the liver, plasma concentrations of Lacidipine are increased in hepatic impairment. A lower starting dose and careful monitoring are recommended, with dose adjustment as needed; Lacidipine should be used with particular caution in severe hepatic impairment (see Precautions and Warnings).

Elderly

No specific dose adjustment of Lacidipine is generally required in elderly patients, but treatment should be initiated at the lowest dose with monitoring of blood pressure response.

Side Effects of Lacidipine

Side effects of Lacidipine are generally dose-related and reflect its vasodilatory action.

FrequencySide Effects
CommonHeadache, dizziness, flushing, palpitations, peripheral (ankle) edema, tachycardia
Less CommonSyncope, worsening of angina, gastrointestinal discomfort, rash, gingival hyperplasia (with prolonged use)
RareTremor, muscle cramps, urticaria, angioedema
Very RareDepression, elevated liver enzymes (alkaline phosphatase)

Peripheral edema with Lacidipine is a recognized class effect of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers and is dose-dependent; it is caused by arteriolar dilation rather than fluid overload and typically does not respond to diuretics.

Contraindications of Lacidipine

Lacidipine is contraindicated in patients with:

  • Known hypersensitivity to Lacidipine or to any other dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker or excipient.
  • Unstable angina.
  • Within one month following an acute myocardial infarction.
  • Significant/severe untreated aortic stenosis.
  • Cardiogenic shock.

Frequently Asked Questions about Lacidipine

What is Lacidipine used for?

Lacidipine is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension), either alone or together with other blood-pressure-lowering medicines.

How should I take Lacidipine?

Lacidipine should be taken once daily, preferably in the morning, at the same time each day, with or without food. Avoid taking Lacidipine with grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as this can significantly raise Lacidipine levels in the body and increase the risk of side effects.

What are the common side effects of Lacidipine?

Common side effects of Lacidipine include headache, dizziness, flushing, palpitations, and swelling of the ankles or feet. These are usually dose-related and tend to improve over time; contact your physician if they are troublesome or persistent.

Can I take Lacidipine during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

The safety of Lacidipine has not been established in pregnancy or breastfeeding. Lacidipine should only be used in these situations if a physician determines that the potential benefit outweighs the possible risk to the baby. Always consult your physician before taking Lacidipine if you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding.

Who should not take Lacidipine?

Lacidipine should not be used by people who are hypersensitive to Lacidipine or other dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, or by those with unstable angina, cardiogenic shock, significant aortic stenosis, or within one month of a heart attack. Discuss your full medical history with your physician before starting Lacidipine.

What should I do if I miss a dose or take too much Lacidipine?

If you miss a dose of Lacidipine, take it as soon as you remember unless it is almost time for your next dose – in that case, skip the missed dose and continue your normal schedule; do not double the dose. If you or someone else has taken too much Lacidipine, seek immediate medical attention or contact emergency services, as overdose can cause dangerously low blood pressure.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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