Isradipine Capsule

Isradipine is a medication used primarily for the treatment of high blood pressure (hypertension). It belongs to the class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers, specifically dihydropyridine-type calcium channel blockers. Isradipine helps relax and widen blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood, which in turn lowers blood pressure. This medication is available in both immediate-release and extended-release formulations and is often used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents.

How Isradipine Works

Mechanism of Action:

1. Calcium Channel Blockade:
   • Isradipine works by blocking calcium channels in the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels. Calcium is essential for muscle contraction, and by inhibiting calcium influx, isradipine prevents the contraction of vascular smooth muscles.
2. Vasodilation:
   • The blockade of calcium channels results in the relaxation and dilation of peripheral arteries, leading to a reduction in total peripheral resistance. This action decreases the workload on the heart and helps to lower blood pressure.
3. Reduction in Afterload:
   • By reducing arterial resistance, isradipine lowers afterload, which is the pressure the heart has to work against to eject blood during systole. This action can be particularly beneficial in patients with hypertension and left ventricular hypertrophy.
4. Coronary Artery Dilation:
   • Isradipine also dilates coronary arteries, which increases oxygen delivery to the heart muscle. This can help reduce symptoms of angina (chest pain) in patients with coronary artery disease.
5. Minimal Effect on Cardiac Conduction:
   • Unlike some other calcium channel blockers, isradipine has minimal effects on heart rate and cardiac conduction, making it less likely to cause bradycardia (slow heart rate) or heart block.

Combined Effect:

The overall impact of isradipine’s action is a reduction in blood pressure and decreased cardiac workload, which helps prevent complications associated with hypertension, such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney disease.

Side Effects

Isradipine is generally well tolerated, but like all medications, it can cause side effects. The side effects may vary depending on the dosage and individual patient factors.

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness: Due to the vasodilatory effect leading to a drop in blood pressure.
• Flushing: A feeling of warmth or redness, particularly in the face and neck.
• Headache: Commonly experienced as a result of blood vessel dilation.
• Peripheral Edema: Swelling, especially in the legs, due to fluid retention.
• Fatigue: General tiredness or weakness.
• Nausea: Mild gastrointestinal discomfort.

Rare but Serious Side Effects:

• Hypotension: Excessive lowering of blood pressure, leading to fainting or lightheadedness.
• Palpitations: Feeling of irregular or rapid heartbeat.
• Tachycardia: Increased heart rate, particularly in response to vasodilation.
• Gingival Hyperplasia: Overgrowth of gum tissue.
• Hepatic Enzyme Elevation: Potential liver function abnormalities requiring monitoring.

Indications

Isradipine is primarily indicated for the management of hypertension, but it has other clinical uses based on its pharmacologic profile.

Approved Indications:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Both as monotherapy and in combination with other antihypertensive medications.
• Chronic Stable Angina: Off-label use for chest pain associated with coronary artery disease.
• Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Off-label use to alleviate symptoms of cold and numb extremities due to vasoconstriction.

Contraindications

Isradipine may not be suitable for all patients. The following contraindications should be considered to avoid potential adverse effects.

Contraindications:

• Hypersensitivity: Known hypersensitivity to isradipine or other dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers.
• Severe Aortic Stenosis: The vasodilatory effect can worsen the condition by reducing coronary perfusion pressure.
• Unstable Angina or Recent Myocardial Infarction: Use with caution, as the reflex tachycardia may increase myocardial oxygen demand.
• Severe Hypotension: Patients with systolic blood pressure less than 90 mmHg.
• Advanced Heart Block: Unless a functioning pacemaker is present, as it can worsen conduction abnormalities.

Price in Different Countries

Isradipine’s cost can vary significantly depending on the healthcare system, brand, and insurance coverage.  

Country	Price (Per Month)	Reference
United States	$50 – $80	GoodRx
United Kingdom	£25 – £40	NHS UK
Canada	CAD $60 – $85	Health Canada
Australia	AUD $45 – $70	PBS Australia
India	₹800 – ₹1,200	1mg

Top 5 Global Brands

Isradipine is marketed under various brand names globally, manufactured by leading pharmaceutical companies specializing in cardiovascular medications.

1. Dynacirc (Isradipine) – Novartis

• One of the original brands, Dynacirc is widely used in the treatment of hypertension and has been a trusted option for many years.

2. Prescal (Isradipine) – Glenmark Pharmaceuticals

• Glenmark offers isradipine under the Prescal brand, providing an affordable and effective option for hypertension management.

3. DynaCirc CR (Isradipine Controlled Release) – GSK

• A controlled-release formulation offering extended blood pressure control with once-daily dosing, preferred by many for its convenience.

4. Isradipine Sandoz – Sandoz

• A generic version widely available in Europe and other markets, known for its affordability and efficacy.

5. Isradipine Teva – Teva Pharmaceuticals

• Another generic option that is commonly prescribed for its cost-effectiveness and availability in various markets.