Motens

Motens contains lacidipine, a long-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker (CCB) licensed for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) in adults. By blocking L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, lacidipine causes vasodilation of peripheral arteries, reducing vascular resistance and lowering blood pressure.

Selective Vascular Action

Lacidipine has a high degree of vascular selectivity and lipophilicity, meaning it distributes extensively into vascular tissue and has a prolonged duration of action. This property results in a smooth, sustained blood pressure reduction over 24 hours from a single daily dose, avoiding the peaks and troughs associated with shorter-acting agents. Its vascular selectivity means it has minimal effect on cardiac contractility, which is an advantage in patients with concurrent left ventricular dysfunction.

Additional Cardiovascular Benefits

Lacidipine has demonstrated antiatherosclerotic properties in preclinical and some clinical studies, reducing lipid accumulation in vascular walls. While clinical outcomes data are more limited than for some other CCBs, lacidipine is a well-tolerated option particularly suited for patients who experience troublesome ankle oedema with other dihydropyridines.

How to Take Motens

Take Motens tablets once daily, preferably in the morning. Swallow the tablet whole with water. Lacidipine can be taken with or without food. The tablet should not be crushed or chewed. Take Motens at the same time each day to maintain a consistent blood pressure effect.

Dosing and Titration

Treatment usually begins at 2 mg once daily. If blood pressure is not adequately controlled after three to four weeks, the dose may be increased to 4 mg daily, and subsequently to 6 mg daily if required. Dose adjustments should be made gradually under medical supervision. Do not stop taking Motens without consulting your doctor, as abrupt cessation may cause a rebound increase in blood pressure.

Motens tablets are available in 2 mg and 4 mg strengths. The usual starting dose is 2 mg once daily, with increases at 3–4 week intervals up to a maximum of 6 mg daily. Store below 25°C in a dry place. Like all antihypertensive medicines, Motens should be taken indefinitely unless your doctor advises otherwise.

Common Side Effects

The most commonly reported side effects are typical of the dihydropyridine class and relate to peripheral vasodilation. These include headache, flushing, palpitations, and dizziness, particularly when treatment is first started or the dose is increased. Ankle oedema (swelling of the feet and ankles) is a class effect but is considered less pronounced with lacidipine than with amlodipine or nifedipine.

Less Common Side Effects

Nausea, skin rash, fatigue, and polyuria (increased urination) have been reported. Gingival hyperplasia (overgrowth of the gums) is a rare class effect associated with long-term dihydropyridine use. If you notice gum changes, contact your prescriber. Most side effects are mild and resolve as the body adjusts to treatment.

Motens should be used with caution in patients with aortic stenosis, hepatic impairment, or acute porphyria. It should not be used within one month of a myocardial infarction or in acute heart failure. Grapefruit juice should be avoided as it can increase lacidipine plasma levels and enhance blood pressure-lowering effects. Monitor blood pressure and heart rate when initiating treatment or adjusting doses.

Contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to lacidipine or other dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers. Not recommended in cardiogenic shock, haemodynamically significant aortic stenosis, or unstable angina. Use in pregnancy and breastfeeding is not recommended.