Zanidip (Lercanidipine Hydrochloride)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Zanidip Used For?
Zanidip is a medication that helps manage high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. It works by relaxing blood vessels to improve blood flow.
Primary Uses
Zanidip is primarily used to treat hypertension.
How It Works
Zanidip relaxes blood vessels, reducing resistance to blood flow, which helps lower blood pressure.
Good to know: Zanidip is not addictive.
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How to Take Zanidip
Take Zanidip as prescribed by your doctor, ideally at the same time each day.
Dosage Instructions
The usual starting dose is one 10 mg tablet taken once daily, which may be increased to 20 mg if needed.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you forget to take a dose within 12 hours, take it as soon as you remember. If it's been longer, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double the dose.
Important: Never take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- flushing
- swelling of the ankles, feet, or lower legs
- palpitations
- headache
- dizziness or fainting
- gastrointestinal disturbances (heartburn, nausea, epigastric pain, diarrhea)
- fatigue or sleepiness
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- angina (chest pain or tightness)
- increased heart rate
- allergic reactions (rash, itching, hives)
Important Warnings
There are important considerations to keep in mind before taking Zanidip.
Who Should Not Take Zanidip
Do not take Zanidip if you are allergic to lercanidipine or any of its ingredients, have severe liver or kidney disease, are pregnant or breastfeeding, or have certain heart conditions.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have a history of liver or kidney disease, heart problems, or are on dialysis.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Zanidip is not recommended during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Consult your doctor if you become pregnant while taking this medication.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Zanidip, affecting its efficacy.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Zanidip, as they can increase its effects.
- astemizole
- ciclosporin
- cimetidine (more than 800 mg daily)
- clarithromycin
- erythromycin
- troleandomycin
- fluoxetine
- itraconazole
- ketoconazole
- corticosteroids
- metoprolol
- propranolol
- rifampicin
- ritonavir
- medications for enlarged prostate
- medications for depression
- medications for epilepsy (e.g., carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin)
- amiodarone
- digoxin
- midazolam
- quinidine
- simvastatin
- sotalol
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious with alcohol consumption and operating vehicles while on Zanidip.
Alcohol
Discuss alcohol use with your doctor, as it may enhance the effects of Zanidip.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Be careful when driving or using machinery until you know how Zanidip affects you.
Storage
Store Zanidip in its blister pack in a cool, dry place away from sunlight, ideally below 30°C. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include low blood pressure, dizziness, headache, and irregular heartbeat.
Frequently Asked Questions
Zanidip typically starts to lower blood pressure within a few hours after taking it.
It is recommended to take Zanidip at least 15 minutes before meals.
No, Zanidip is not considered addictive.
Consult your doctor before stopping Zanidip, as sudden discontinuation may lead to increased blood pressure.
Discuss alcohol consumption with your doctor, as it may enhance the effects of the medication.
Weight gain is not commonly associated with Zanidip.
Elderly patients should consult their doctor to ensure Zanidip is safe for them.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.