Can I stop taking Lercanidipine

[mumsandra]

A couple of years ago I was prescribed Adalat, not for BP as my BP was always low, but for Raynauds Phenomenom in my feet. It caused Fluid retention in my legs and face so I stopped taking it as I could manage an attack and as summer was coming,less attacks anyway. BP and Raynauds were fine. The only other medication I took was Naproxen 500mg twice a day for Osteo Arthritis.

Then about six months ago my optician noticed changes in capillaries and blood vessels in eyes and referred me to Doctor,had a BP Monitor fitted and was prescribed Lercanidipine 10mg. I began to monitor my BP at home and had the same results as when I had the GPs Monitor on, it was up and down like a yo-yo. For instance it Fluctuates between 117-81-78 and 140-89-78 usually the highest figure first and the lowest a few mins later. After a few months I am suffering mild fluid retention, but permanent headache and occasional dizziness. At this present moment in time, GP appointments are unavailable due to the Corona Virus Pandemic. I just want to stop taking it, but don't know whether I should. Any advice greatly appreciated.

[Happyrosie]

Hello mumsandra. I don’t know how old you are, but would say these bp readings are very good if on the low side. It might be getting high if you’re not relaxed. You say that after a while your bp is down to 117, which is a little low.

My suggestion would be to sit for at least ten minutes quietly, no talking, and concentrating on your breathing. Then take your bp. If the diastolic reading is consistently below 120 over a few days (write down the results and the dates and times) then a phone call to your surgery is indicated. My husband found that his bp was low, he phoned the doctors surgery and was able to speak to a nurse who specialises in pharmacy. She spoke to the doc and together they recommended a change in my husband’s medication. You may find that your surgery does the same.

Hope this helps

[springcross in reply to Happyrosie]

Hi mumsandra. I don't disagree with anything Happyrosie has said. as it does seem a little low. Follow her good advice and take it from there. Good luck. x

[mumsandra in reply to Happyrosie]

I am 74 years old.

[Happyrosie in reply to mumsandra]

Same as me then! Even diastolic 140 is at the high end of normal for your (our) age. Blood pressure does vary from minute to minute depending on many things. A change in BP medication would probably do something for your fluid retention. I’ve had a further thought: chat to your pharmacist. They know far more about different medication than a GP does. Part of a Pharmacist’s job is discuss with you your medication including things like vitamins that you might take.