Lercanidipine
Lercanidipine is a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It works by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood around the body. It is typically prescribed when other blood pressure medications have not been effective or are not tolerated.
Lercanidipine is a once-daily calcium channel blocker used to lower high blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels.
Key facts at a glance
- ATC
- C08CA13
- RxNorm
- 135056
- Generic
- Lercanidipine
- Class
- atc-c08
- Brands
- —
- Availability
- rx
- Lactation
- unknown
- Routes
- oral
- Forms
- tablet
- Regions
- US, EU, CN, JP
- Monitoring
- —
This page is for informational purposes only.
Do not use this information to diagnose yourself or to replace a physician's advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting, stopping, or changing any medication. If you believe you are experiencing a medical emergency, call your local emergency number immediately.
Lercanidipine is used to treat essential hypertension (high blood pressure without an identifiable cause). It is often prescribed when first-line treatments are insufficient or not well tolerated by the patient.
As a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, lercanidipine inhibits the entry of calcium into vascular smooth muscle cells through L-type calcium channels. This causes relaxation and widening (vasodilation) of blood vessels, reducing peripheral resistance and lowering blood pressure.
Lercanidipine should be taken on an empty stomach, ideally 15 minutes before meals. It is contraindicated in patients with severe kidney or liver problems, unstable angina, or recent heart attack. Common side effects may include headache, flushing, and peripheral edema. Grapefruit juice may increase drug levels and should be avoided.
Official drug label
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This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your local emergency number or go to the nearest emergency department immediately.
Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 25, 2026. · Read our editorial policy