Plendil

Common Name: felodipine

How does Plendil work?

Felodipine belongs to a class of medicines called calcium channel blockers and is used for the treatment of high blood pressure. It controls blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the workload of the heart. Your doctor may choose to use a medication for conditions other than the ones listed in these drug information articles. If you're unsure why you are taking this medication, contact your doctor.

How should I use Plendil?

The recommended adult dose of felodipine ranges from 2.5 mg to 10 mg once daily, swallowed whole (not crushed or chewed) and taken with or without food. The tablets should not be taken with a meal that is high in carbohydrates or fat (e.g., sausages, bacon, hash browns, or sugared cereals). Grapefruit juice increases the amount of felodipine in your body and should be avoided. Many things can affect the dose of medication that a person needs, such as body weight, other medical conditions, and other medications. If your doctor has recommended a dose different from the ones listed here, do not change the way that you are taking the medication without consulting your doctor. It is very important that this medication be taken on a regular schedule as prescribed by the doctor. If you miss a dose of this medication, take it as soon as you remember it. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and carry on with your regular schedule. Do not double-up on doses.

What form(s) does Plendil come in?

Tablet

What should I NOT take with Plendil?

This medication should not be taken by anyone who: is allergic to any of the ingredients of the medication is allergic to felodipine or to any of the medications from the same class (e.g., amlodipine, nifedipine) has very low blood pressure is or could become pregnant is breast-feeding

Are there any other precautions or warnings for Plendil?

Congestive heart failure: The safety and efficacy of felodipine for people with heart failure have not been established. Low blood pressure: Care should be taken to avoid extremely low blood pressure, especially for those with a history of reduced blood flow to the brain or those who take other medications known to lower blood pressure. Grapefruit juice: Grapefruit juice can increase blood levels of felodipine. Avoid drinking grapefruit juice or eating grapefruit before or while you taking felodipine. Pregnancy and breast-feeding: Women who are or could become pregnant or who are breast-feeding should not take felodipine. Children: Felodipine is not recommended for use by children since its safety and efficacy have not been established for this age group. Seniors: Seniors may be more sensitive to the adverse effects of felodipine.