Indications
Zanidip is a prescription medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. It contains the active ingredient lercanidipine, which belongs to a class of medicines called dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers.
Zanidip works by blocking the entry of calcium ions into the muscle cells that make up the walls of blood vessels. This results in the relaxation and widening of the blood vessels, which then allows blood to flow more easily and effectively through them. This in turn lowers blood pressure, which can help to reduce the strain on the heart and lower the risk of associated complications.
Use and Dosage
Lercanidipine tablets are available in two strengths, 10 mg, and 20 mg. The tablets should be swallowed whole with water, if possible. You should take the tablets as directed by your doctor, with a drink of water and approximately 30 minutes before a meal, on an empty stomach. This is because fatty foods can increase the amount of lercanidipine that your body absorbs, which may lead to side effects.
- For adults, the usual dose is one 10 mg film-coated tablet taken daily at the same time each day. Take it in the morning, at least 15 minutes before breakfast, as a high-fat meal may increase blood levels of the drug. Your doctor may increase your dose to one Zanidip 20 mg film-coated tablet daily, if necessary but follow their advice carefully.
- Elderly patients do not require a daily dose adjustment but should be monitored carefully. Patients with liver or kidney problems need care when starting treatment, and a daily dose increase to 20 mg should be approached with caution.
- Zanidip should not be used in children under 18 years of age. If you have any further questions about the use of Zanidip, consult your doctor.
If you miss to take your lercanidipine tablet at the usual time, take it 30 minutes before your next meal. If you do not remember until the following day, skip the missed dose and do not take two doses together to make up for it.
Side Effects
Common Side Effects of Zanidip (Lercanidipine):
- Awareness of your heartbeat
- Dizziness or fainting
- Faster than normal heartbeat
- Fatigue or sleepiness
- Flushing
- Gastrointestinal disturbances such as heartburn, nausea, epigastric pain, or diarrhea
- Headache
- Palpitations
- Swelling of the ankles, feet, or lower legs
- Swollen ankles, wrists, arms, or legs
Serious Side Effects of Zanidip (Lercanidipine):
- Angina (chest pain or tightness)
- Difficulty in breathing
- Disturbances of the gut, such as nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, abdominal pain, and indigestion
- Drowsiness
- Fatigue
- General feeling of being unwell
- Increased heartbeat
- Increased need to pass urine
- Signs of allergy such as rash, itching or hives on the skin
- Skin rash
Forms and Strength
Zanidip (Lercanidipine) is available in the following forms and strength:
Lercanidipine: Tablet
- 10 mg
- 20 mg
Cautions
- Allergies: Zanidip should not be taken if the patient is allergic to lercanidipine, or any drugs closely related to it (such as amlodipine or felodipine).
- Heart problems: Chest pain is a sign of a heart attack and needs to be checked out as soon as possible.
- Serious allergic reactions: Although rare, a serious allergic reaction can occur, and medical attention should be obtained immediately.
- Kidney or liver problems: Zanidip may not be suitable for people with severe kidney or liver problems.
- Other medical conditions or medications: Patients should inform their doctor about any other health conditions they have or medications they are taking before starting treatment with Zanidip.
- Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Zanidip should not be used during pregnancy or breastfeeding unless advised by a doctor.
- Dizziness and fainting: Zanidip may cause dizziness or fainting, especially when standing up quickly from a lying or sitting position. Patients should be cautious when performing activities that require mental alertness or physical coordination.
- Driving and operating machinery: Patients should avoid driving or operating heavy machinery while taking Zanidip if they experience dizziness or other side effects that impair their ability to perform these activities.
- Grapefruit juice: Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Zanidip and increase the risk of side effects. Patients should avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Zanidip.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What should I do if I miss a dose of Zanidip?
If you miss a dose of Zanidip, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
Can Zanidip be used in children?
Zanidip is not recommended for use in children under the age of 18.
How long does it take for Zanidip to start working?
Zanidip should start working within a few hours of taking the first dose. However, it may take several weeks for the full effects of the medication to be seen.
What should I do if I experience side effects from Zanidip?
If you experience any side effects from Zanidip, speak to your doctor or pharmacist. They can help determine if the side effects are related to the medication or if there is another underlying issue.
Resources
- https://apps.medicines.org.au/files/gopzanit.pdf
- https://patient.info/medicine/lercanidipine-tablets-for-high-blood-pressure-zanidip
- https://www.hpra.ie/img/uploaded/swedocuments/2174054.PPA0465_193_002.af5ce6da-2ae3-4faf-a4be-ac825c8abd44.000001Zanidip%20Combined%20PIL.160414.pdf
- https://www.drugs.com/uk/zanidip-20mg-tablets-leaflet.html
- https://www.news-medical.net/drugs/Zanidip.aspx
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