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.

Description

Presentation

    Lacicard-2 Tablet: Each film coated tablet contains Lacidipine BP 2 mg.
    Lacicard-4 Tablet: Each film coated tablet contains Lacidipine BP 4 mg.

Indications

    Treatment of hypertension, either alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents such as beta-blockers and diuretics.

Dosage & Administration

    Initially 2 mg as a single daily dose, preferably in the morning; increased after 3-4 weeks to 4 mg daily, then if necessary to 6 mg.

Contrainidications

    Hypersensitivity to dihydropyridine derivatives. Cardiogenic shock, aortic stenosis, avoid within 1 month of myocardial infarction, impaired left ventricular function, pregnancy and breast-feeding.

Warning & Precautions

    Cardiac conduction abnormalities, poor cardiac reserve, hepatic impairment, withdraw if ischemic pain occurs shortly after initiating treatment or if cardiogenic shock develops, avoid grapefruit juice (may affect metabolism).

Side effects

    Flushing, palpitation, edema, headache, dizziness, rarely gastro-intestinal disturbances, gum hyperplasia, aggravation of angina, mood disturbances, asthenia, polyuria, muscle cramps, skin rash (including pruritus and erythema).

Drug interaction

    Cimetidine increases the concentration of Lacidipine. Lacidipine increases the concentration of Digoxin & Propranolol but Propranolol decreases the maximum concentration & AUC of Lacidipine.

Use in special groups

    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.
    Use in nursing mothers: Milk transfer studies showed that Lacidipine is excreted into breast milk and therefore, Lacidipine should not be used during lactation.
    Use in pregnancy: Although no teratogenic effect of Lacidipine has been established in animals, there are no data on the safety of Lacidipine in human pregnancy; therefore it is contraindicated.

Packing

    Lacicard-2 Tablet: Each box contains 60's tablets in Alu-Alu blister pack.
    Lacicard-4 Tablet: Each box contains 30's tablets in Alu-Alu blister pack.