Anti-inflammatory activity of calcium channel blocker lercanidipine hydrochloride

Objective: To evaluate the anti-inflammatory effect of the third-generation CCB, lercanidipine. Materials and Methods: The ability of lercanidipine to reduce inflammation in carrageenan‑induced paw edema in rats was evaluated, using different doses and its anti‑inflammatory effect was compared with that of diclofenac sodium. Mast cell degranulation effect of lercanidipine was also carried out. Results: Lercanidipine produced a significant reduction in the inflammatory paw edema at all doses and at all intervals (P < 0.001). The percentage of reduction in edema was found to be proportionate to the doses of lercanidipine. Lercanidipine also significantly reduced the percentage of propranolol‑induced mast cell degranulation. Conclusions: It was found that lercanidipine exerts a positive anti‑inflammatory effect in a dose‑dependent manner and was superior to diclofenac sodium.