Plendil: Uses, Side Effects, and Safety Tips for Felodipine Users
Find out how Plendil (felodipine) helps control blood pressure, its effects, common side effects, and real-world tips for safe use.
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If your doctor mentioned felodipine, they're talking about a long‑acting pill that lowers blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels. It’s a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker commonly used for hypertension and sometimes for stable angina. This page gives clear, usable facts: how felodipine works, typical doses, what to watch for, and common drug interactions.
Felodipine relaxes the smooth muscle in arteries so blood flows easier and pressure drops. Most people take an extended‑release tablet once a day, usually in the morning. Typical adult doses range from 2.5 mg to 10 mg daily. Older adults often start at a lower dose (2.5 mg) because they can be more sensitive to drops in blood pressure.
If your blood pressure isn’t controlled, doctors may increase the dose slowly. Never split or crush extended‑release tablets. Always follow your prescriber’s instructions and use the exact product prescribed.
Common side effects are headache, flushing, swelling of the ankles (peripheral edema), dizziness, and a fast heartbeat. These often show up when you first start or after a dose increase and may ease in a few weeks. If you feel lightheaded or faint, sit down and check your blood pressure—this could signal too low a pressure.
Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, severe heart failure, or pregnancy plans. While felodipine is usually safe, any new or severe symptoms—marked swelling, chest pain, fainting, or fast irregular heartbeat—need prompt medical attention. Your doctor may check blood pressure regularly and consider liver tests if there are concerns.
Missed dose? Take it as soon as you remember on the same day. Skip it if it’s almost time for the next dose. Don’t double up.
One of the most important practical warnings: avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice. Grapefruit blocks enzymes that break down felodipine, so levels in your blood can rise a lot and cause more side effects. Also be careful with medicines that affect the same enzyme system (CYP3A4).
Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that can raise felodipine levels include some antibiotics (like clarithromycin), antifungals (like ketoconazole), and certain HIV drugs. Enzyme inducers such as rifampin or carbamazepine can lower felodipine effectiveness. Always tell your prescriber about all medicines, supplements, and herbal products you take.
Thinking about buying felodipine online? Use a licensed pharmacy and a valid prescription. Fake or unregulated sources can sell wrong doses or counterfeit pills. If cost is an issue, ask your doctor about generics, patient assistance, or local pharmacy discounts.
Questions about how felodipine fits your health? Talk with your prescriber or pharmacist. They can tailor dosing, check for interactions, and help you monitor results so the medicine works safely for you.
Find out how Plendil (felodipine) helps control blood pressure, its effects, common side effects, and real-world tips for safe use.
View More