L-Cardin

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.

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.

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.

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

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.

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.