Product Description
Lacidipine 103890-78-4
AI Product Description
*The following content is generated by AI and is for reference only.
Lacidipine is a long-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker primarily utilized in the management of hypertension. Chemically, it belongs to the class of 1,4-dihydropyridines, characterized by a specific structure that allows for high lipophilicity and selective binding to vascular smooth muscle cells. Its molecular formula is C26H30N2O7, and it carries the CAS Registry Number 88588-99-6. The compound features a unique side chain containing a pyridine ring and an ester group, which contributes significantly to its prolonged duration of action compared to earlier generation agents in the same class.
The primary therapeutic application of Lacidipine is the treatment of essential hypertension. By inhibiting the influx of calcium ions through L-type voltage-gated calcium channels in arterial smooth muscle, it induces vasodilation, thereby reducing peripheral vascular resistance and lowering blood pressure without significantly affecting cardiac contractility or conduction velocity at therapeutic doses. This selectivity makes it particularly suitable for patients with concomitant conditions where heart rate reduction might be undesirable. Due to its high lipid solubility, Lacidipine exhibits slow onset but sustained release properties, allowing for once-daily dosing regimens that improve patient compliance. Furthermore, studies suggest potential organ-protective effects beyond simple blood pressure control, including improvements in endothelial function and reduction of left ventricular hypertrophy.
Pharmacokinetically, the drug is extensively metabolized in the liver by cytochrome P450 enzymes, specifically CYP3A4, into inactive metabolites before renal excretion. While generally well-tolerated, common adverse effects may include peripheral edema, flushing, headache, and dizziness, typical of dihydropyridine calcium antagonists. Contraindications usually involve severe hypotension, cardiogenic shock, or hypersensitivity to the drug. As a generic antihypertensive agent, Lacidipine remains a valuable option in clinical practice, offering effective blood pressure regulation with a favorable safety profile for long-term therapy in adult populations worldwide.