Lercanidipine is a calcium channel blocker that relaxes and widens the arteries, lowering blood pressure. It acts gradually and is associated with less ankle swelling than older medicines in the same family.

What Lercanidipine Is Used For

High blood pressure, alone or with other medicines
Long term protection of the heart, kidneys and eyes from raised pressure
Patients who did not tolerate other calcium channel blockers

Common Side Effects

Ankle swelling
Flushing and headache
Palpitations
Dizziness

Precautions

It is taken before a meal, and grapefruit juice must be avoided because it raises the level in the blood considerably. Keep taking it even though high blood pressure usually causes no symptoms. Report marked ankle swelling, severe dizziness or worsening chest pain. Salt reduction, weight and activity work alongside the tablet rather than being replaced by it.

This page is general information only. It is not a substitute for advice from your doctor or pharmacist, and it does not include dosage. Always follow the directions given to you and read the leaflet inside the pack.