Indications 

Zanidip is a prescribed medication used to manage mild to moderate essential hypertension (elevated blood pressure). 

Classified as a dihydropyridine-type calcium channel blocker, Zanidip functions by relaxing and dilating blood vessels, facilitating improved blood circulation throughout the body. Consequently, this reduces blood pressure and enhances cardiac efficiency. 

Uses and Dosage 

Before taking Zanidip and with every prescription refill, thoroughly review the accompanying medication guide and patient information leaflet. Do not hesitate to consult your doctor or pharmacist for any inquiries or concerns.  

The dosage of Zanidip is determined and adjusted based on the patient’s medical conditions and response to the treatment.  

Typically, Zanidip is taken once daily, preferably 15 minutes before a meal, as prescribed by the doctor. 

To achieve optimal results, take this medication regularly at around the same times each day, precisely as directed. 

Refrain from altering the dosage of Zanidip or taking it longer or more frequently than prescribed without consulting your doctor. 

If you forget a dose of Zanidip, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule; do not double the dose to compensate for a missed one. 

Consult your doctor before discontinuing Zanidip, as stopping the treatment may lead to a potential increase in blood pressure. 

Side Effects 

Listed below are the potential adverse effects of Zanidip. Promptly inform your doctor if any of these symptoms persist or worsen. 

Common Side Effects 

• Headache 
• Dizziness 
• Increased heart rate 
• Palpitations (heart pounding or racing) 
• Sudden redness of the face, neck, or upper chest 
• Ankle swelling 

Serious Side Effects 

• Chest pain from reduced blood flow to the heart 
• Sleepiness, feeling sick, vomiting, heartburn, stomach pain 
• Skin rash, muscle pain, increased urination, fatigue 

Contact your doctor right away if any of the above-listed symptoms become troublesome. 

Allergic Reactions 

In rare cases, Zanidip may trigger a serious allergic response. Seek immediate medical help if you notice signs of an allergic reaction, such as: 

• Itching 
• Rash 
• Hives 

This list does not encompass all potential side effects of Zanidip. Tell your doctor if any unlisted side effects occur. 

Cautions 

Before starting treatment with Zanidip, inform your doctor if you have any known allergies, particularly to lercanidipine or similar medications like amlodipine, nicardipine, felodipine, isradipine, nifedipine or lacidipine. 

Ask your pharmacist for more details about Zanidip, as it may contain inactive components that may lead to allergic reactions or other complications. 

To ensure Zanidip is safe for you, disclose to your doctor your medical background, particularly if you have:  

• Specific heart conditions that have not been treated with a pacemaker or if you have existing angina 
• Experience liver or kidney issues, or if you are undergoing dialysis 

Do not take Zanidip if you have: 

• Certain heart conditions: 
  • Untreated heart failure 
  • Obstruction of blood flow from the heart 
  • Unstable angina (angina at rest or worsening) 
  • Experienced a heart attack within the past month 
• Severe liver or kidney problems 
• Are taking medications that inhibit the CYP3A4 isoenzyme: 
  • Antifungal drugs (e.g., ketoconazole or itraconazole) 
  • Macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin or troleandomycin) 
  • Antiviral medications (e.g., ritonavir) 
• Are taking ciclosporin or cyclosporin (employed post-transplant to prevent organ rejection) 

Ensure to inform all your healthcare providers about your complete medication regimen, including prescribed and over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to mitigate the risk of drug interactions with Zanidip. 

Inform your doctor if you are taking phenytoin or carbamazepine (medications for epilepsy), as they may require more frequent blood pressure monitoring. 

Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice when taking Zanidip to prevent potential medication interactions. 

The use of Zanidip can cause cloudy fluid in the abdomen in people on peritoneal dialysis. This cloudy fluid might be confused with an infection, leading to unnecessary hospitalization and antibiotics. 

Exercise caution when taking Zanidip, as it may lead to dizziness, weakness, fatigue, and, in rare cases, drowsiness. Refrain from operating vehicles or machinery until you understand how this medicine affects you. 

Zanidip is contraindicated during pregnancy and in women of childbearing potential who are not using contraception due to uncertain risks to the unborn child. 

The impact of lercanidipine hydrochloride on breast milk and its effects on infants are uncertain. Therefore, Zanidip is not recommended for use during breastfeeding.