Lercastad

Lercanidipine, the active ingredient in Lercastad, is a calcium channel blocker presented as an oral formulation for systemic use. It works by selectively inhibiting L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, leading to vasodilation and reduced peripheral resistance, which helps lower elevated blood pressure in adults with essential hypertension.

GNH USA supplies Lercastad as a licensed, GDP‑compliant international pharmaceutical supplier serving hospitals, pharmacies and clinics worldwide. The product conforms to EU standards and is manufactured under strict quality controls.

Lercastad is used in the management of hypertension, a condition characterized by chronically elevated arterial pressure.

Essential hypertension: reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure, helping patients achieve target levels.

Common adverse reactions are generally mild and transient, while rare events may require medical attention.

Common Side Effects: - Headache: mild to moderate pain in the head. - Flushing: transient redness of the skin. - Peripheral edema: swelling of the ankles or feet. - Dizziness: sensation of light‑headedness, especially on standing. - Tachycardia: increased heart rate.

Serious or Rare Side Effects: - Severe hypotension: marked drop in blood pressure causing fainting. - Angio‑edema: swelling of the face, lips or throat. - Myocardial infarction: rare occurrence of heart attack. - Hepatotoxicity: abnormal liver function tests.

Before initiating therapy, certain precautions should be considered to ensure safe use.

Renal impairment: assess kidney function and adjust dose if necessary. Hepatic impairment: monitor liver function, use with caution. Concomitant antihypertensives: avoid excessive blood pressure reduction. Elderly patients: start with low dose and monitor for orthostatic hypotension. Pregnancy and lactation: safety not established; use only if benefits outweigh risks. Store at ambient temperature: keep below 25 °C, protect from moisture and light in original packaging.

Lercastad may interact with other medicines, altering its efficacy or safety profile.

Major Interactions (Avoid): - Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, clarithromycin): may increase lercanidipine plasma levels, risking hypotension. - Grapefruit juice: can raise drug concentration, leading to excessive blood pressure lowering. - Other calcium channel blockers: additive vasodilatory effect causing severe hypotension.

Moderate Interactions (Monitor Closely): - Diuretics: may enhance antihypertensive effect, monitor blood pressure. - Beta‑blockers: combined effect on heart rate and blood pressure, adjust dose as needed. - ACE inhibitors or ARBs: additive blood pressure reduction, watch for renal function changes.