Lacidipine
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Drug Status
Government Approvals
UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
No
Pharmaceutical Class
None
Controlled Drug Substance
No
Summary
Lacidipine is used to treat high blood pressure, which is also known as hypertension. It helps lower blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart problems like heart attacks and strokes.
Lacidipine is a calcium channel blocker, which means it relaxes blood vessels by blocking calcium entry into muscle cells, allowing blood to flow more easily and lowering blood pressure.
Lacidipine is usually taken as a tablet once daily, with or without food. The starting dose is typically 2 mg, which may be adjusted by a doctor up to a maximum of 6 mg daily.
Common side effects of lacidipine include dizziness, headache, and flushing, which are usually mild and temporary. If these effects persist, consult your doctor.
Lacidipine can cause low blood pressure, leading to dizziness or fainting. It's not recommended for those with severe liver problems or allergies to its ingredients. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Indications and Purpose
How does lacidipine work?
Lacidipine is a calcium channel blocker, which means it works by relaxing the muscles of your heart and blood vessels. Normally, calcium enters these muscles, causing them to contract. Lacidipine blocks this calcium entry, allowing the muscles to relax. Think of it like loosening a tight grip on a garden hose, allowing water to flow more freely. This relaxation helps lower blood pressure and makes it easier for your heart to pump blood, reducing the risk of heart problems.
Is lacidipine effective?
Lacidipine is effective in treating high blood pressure, which is also known as hypertension. It works by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and lowering blood pressure. Clinical studies show that lacidipine effectively reduces blood pressure in many patients, helping to prevent complications like heart attacks and strokes. Always follow your doctor's instructions and attend regular check-ups to monitor your blood pressure and ensure the medication is working effectively.
What is lacidipine?
Lacidipine is a medication used to treat high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. It belongs to a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers, which work by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily. This helps lower blood pressure and reduces the risk of heart problems. Lacidipine is usually used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that includes diet, exercise, and other medications if needed. It's important to follow your doctor's instructions for the best results.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take lacidipine?
Lacidipine is usually a long-term medication for managing high blood pressure, which is a chronic condition. You'll typically take lacidipine every day as a lifelong treatment unless your doctor suggests otherwise. Stopping this medication without medical advice could cause your blood pressure to rise, increasing the risk of heart problems. How long you'll need this medication depends on your body's response, any side effects you experience, and changes in your overall health. Always talk with your doctor before changing or stopping your lacidipine treatment.
How do I dispose of lacidipine?
To dispose of lacidipine, take it to a drug take-back program or collection site at a pharmacy or hospital. They will dispose of it properly to prevent harm to people or the environment. If you can't find a take-back program, you can throw it in the trash at home. First, remove it from its original container, mix it with something undesirable like used coffee grounds, seal the mixture in a plastic bag, and throw it away.
How do I take lacidipine?
Take lacidipine as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily. It's best to take it at the same time each day, either in the morning or evening. You can take lacidipine with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew it. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take two doses at once.
How long does it take for lacidipine to start working?
Lacidipine starts working within a few hours of taking it, but it may take several weeks to achieve its full therapeutic effect. The time it takes to notice improvements in blood pressure can vary depending on individual factors like age, overall health, and other medications you may be taking. It's important to take lacidipine exactly as prescribed and attend regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your progress and adjust your treatment if needed.
How should I store lacidipine?
Store lacidipine at room temperature, away from moisture and light. Keep it in a tightly closed container to protect it from damage. Avoid storing it in humid places like bathrooms, where moisture in the air could affect how well the medication works. Always store lacidipine out of children's reach to prevent accidental swallowing. Remember to check the expiration date regularly and properly dispose of any unused or expired medication.
What is the usual dose of lacidipine?
The usual starting dose of lacidipine for adults is 2 mg once daily. Your doctor may adjust your dose based on your response to the medication, with a maximum recommended dose of 6 mg daily. It's important to follow your doctor's specific dosing instructions. Elderly patients or those with certain health conditions may require different dosing. Always consult your doctor for personalized advice.
Warnings and Precautions
Can I take lacidipine with other prescription drugs?
Lacidipine can interact with other medications, which may increase the risk of side effects or reduce its effectiveness. Major interactions include other blood pressure medications, which can cause excessively low blood pressure. Moderate interactions may occur with medications that affect liver enzymes, altering lacidipine levels in the body. Always inform your doctor about all medications you're taking to avoid potential interactions. They can adjust your treatment plan to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Can lacidipine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Lacidipine is not recommended while breastfeeding due to limited information on its safety. It's unclear if lacidipine passes into breast milk or affects milk production. While there are no specific reports of harm to breastfed babies, potential risks cannot be ruled out. If you're taking lacidipine and want to breastfeed, talk with your doctor about safer medication options that would allow you to nurse your baby safely.
Can lacidipine be taken safely while pregnant?
Lacidipine is not recommended during pregnancy due to limited evidence on its safety. Animal studies suggest potential risks, but human data is lacking. Uncontrolled high blood pressure during pregnancy can cause serious problems for both mother and baby, including preeclampsia, which is high blood pressure during pregnancy. If you're pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk with your doctor about the safest way to manage your blood pressure. Your doctor can help create a pregnancy-specific treatment plan.
Does lacidipine have adverse effects?
Adverse effects are unwanted reactions to a medication. Common adverse effects of lacidipine include dizziness, headache, and flushing. These effects are usually mild and temporary. Serious adverse effects are rare but can include severe allergic reactions, such as rash or difficulty breathing. If you experience any severe or persistent side effects, contact your doctor. They can help determine if these symptoms are related to lacidipine and suggest appropriate actions.
Does lacidipine have any safety warnings?
Lacidipine has important safety warnings. It can cause low blood pressure, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose. This may lead to dizziness or fainting. If you experience these symptoms, sit or lie down until they pass. Lacidipine may also cause swelling in the ankles or feet. If you notice any severe side effects or signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash or difficulty breathing, seek medical help immediately. Always follow your doctor's advice and report any new or worsening symptoms.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking lacidipine?
It's best to limit alcohol while taking lacidipine. Alcohol can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness or low blood pressure. This happens because both alcohol and lacidipine can lower blood pressure. If you choose to drink, do so in moderation and be aware of how your body reacts. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, sit or lie down until the symptoms pass. Talk with your doctor about alcohol use while taking lacidipine for personalized advice.
Is it safe to exercise while taking lacidipine?
You can exercise while taking lacidipine, but be cautious. This medication can cause dizziness or low blood pressure, especially when you start treatment. These symptoms might make you feel lightheaded during exercise. To exercise safely, start slowly and avoid sudden changes in position. Drink plenty of water before, during, and after physical activity. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded, stop exercising and rest. Talk with your doctor if you have concerns about your specific situation.
Is it safe to stop lacidipine?
Lacidipine is usually used for long-term management of high blood pressure. Stopping it suddenly can cause your blood pressure to rise, which may increase the risk of heart problems. Always talk with your doctor before stopping lacidipine. They might suggest gradually reducing your dose or switching to a different medication to keep your condition under control. Your doctor will help you make any medication changes safely to protect your health.
Is lacidipine addictive?
Lacidipine is not addictive or habit-forming. It doesn't cause dependency or withdrawal symptoms when you stop taking it. Lacidipine works by relaxing blood vessels to lower blood pressure, and this mechanism doesn't affect brain chemistry in ways that could lead to addiction. You won't experience cravings for this medication or feel compelled to take more than prescribed. If you have concerns about medication dependence, you can feel confident that lacidipine doesn't carry this risk.
Is lacidipine safe for the elderly?
Elderly individuals are more vulnerable to medication side effects due to age-related changes in the body. Lacidipine is generally safe for the elderly, but they may experience more pronounced side effects like dizziness or low blood pressure. These effects can increase the risk of falls. It's important for elderly patients to be closely monitored by their doctor while taking lacidipine. Regular check-ups and dose adjustments may be necessary to ensure safety and effectiveness.
What are the most common side effects of lacidipine?
Side effects are unwanted reactions that can happen when taking a medication. Common side effects of lacidipine include dizziness, headache, and flushing. These effects are usually mild and temporary. If you notice new symptoms after starting lacidipine, they might be temporary or unrelated to the medication. Talk with your doctor before stopping any medication. They can help determine if the symptoms are related to lacidipine and suggest ways to manage them.
Who should avoid taking lacidipine?
Lacidipine should not be used if you are allergic to it or its ingredients. Serious allergic reactions, which cause rash, hives, or swelling that makes breathing difficult, require immediate medical help. It's also not recommended for people with severe liver problems, as it may worsen liver function. Use caution if you have heart conditions like aortic stenosis, which is a narrowing of the heart's aortic valve. Always consult your doctor about these concerns.
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