Benidipine

Benidipine

Benidipine is a calcium channel blocker medication primarily used in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure). It is a dihydropyridine derivative and has a stronger effect on vascular smooth muscle cells than on cardiac muscle cells.

Pharmacology

Benidipine acts by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle cells, which prevents the contraction of these cells and thus dilates the blood vessels. This reduces the resistance to blood flow, which helps to lower blood pressure. Benidipine has a high affinity for voltage-dependent L and T-type calcium channels.

Clinical Use

Benidipine is used primarily in the treatment of hypertension. It may be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents. It is also used in the treatment of angina pectoris due to its effect on coronary blood flow.

Side Effects

Common side effects of Benidipine include headache, flushing, dizziness, and palpitations. Less common side effects include nausea, abdominal pain, and rash.

Contraindications

Benidipine is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to dihydropyridine derivatives, severe aortic stenosis, or unstable angina not well controlled by medical treatment.

Interactions

Benidipine may interact with other medications, including other antihypertensive agents, leading to an additive effect on blood pressure. It may also interact with drugs that affect the metabolism of dihydropyridines, such as cimetidine and grapefruit juice.

Dosage

The usual starting dose of Benidipine for the treatment of hypertension is 4 mg once daily, which may be increased to a maximum of 8 mg once daily if necessary.

See Also

• Calcium channel blocker
• Hypertension
• Dihydropyridine