Description: Lercanidipine is an antihypertensive drug that belongs to a class of medicines known as dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers. It is available as tablets and is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is known for its high vascular selectivity and has a prolonged antihypertensive effect despite a relatively short half-life, which is due to its high affinity for lipid membranes.

Indication: Lercanidipine is indicated for the treatment of mild to moderate essential hypertension in adults.

Mechanism of Action: Lercanidipine works by blocking the L-type calcium channels in the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels. This action inhibits the influx of calcium ions into the cells, which is necessary for muscle contraction. By preventing these contractions, the drug causes the blood vessels to relax and widen (vasodilation). This vasodilation lowers the total peripheral resistance, which in turn reduces blood pressure and the workload on the heart.