Plendil

Generic name: Felodipine

What is Plendil?

Plendil is in a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. Plendil relaxes (widens) your blood vessels (veins and arteries), which makes it easier for the heart to pump and reduces its workload.

Plendil is used to treat high blood pressure. It is effective alone or in combination with other high blood pressure medications.

What is the most important information I should know about Plendil?

If you have high blood pressure, you must take Plendil regularly for it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may be several weeks before you get the full benefit of Plendil; you must continue taking it even if you are feeling well. Plendil does not cure high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.

Plendil can cause your blood pressure to become too low. If you feel light-headed or faint, or if you feel your heart racing or you experience chest pain, contact your doctor immediately.

Your legs and feet may swell when you start taking Plendil, usually within the first 2 to 3 weeks of treatment. Your gums may become swollen and sore while you are taking Plendil. Good dental hygiene will help control this problem.

Who should not take Plendil?

If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to Plendil or other calcium channel blockers, such as verapamil and nifedipine, you should not take Plendil. Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug reactions you have experienced.

What should I tell my doctor before I take the first dose of Plendil?

Tell your doctor about all prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal medication you are taking before beginning treatment with Plendil. Also, talk to your doctor about your complete medical history, especially if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, have liver disease, or another disease of the heart or blood vessels such as sick sinus syndrome, aortic stenosis (a condition in which the aortic valve has become narrowed or constricted and does not open normally), heart failure, low blood pressure, or coronary artery disease.

What is the usual dosage?

The information below is based on the dosage guidelines your doctor uses. Depending on your condition and medical history, your doctor may prescribe a different regimen. Do not change the dosage or stop taking your medication without your doctor's approval.

Adults: Your doctor will adjust the dosage according to your response to the drug. The usual starting dose is 5 milligrams (mg) taken once a day; but your doctor may adjust the dose at intervals of not less than 2 weeks.

The usual dosage range is 2.5 to 10 mg taken once daily.

Children 10 years and older: The safety and effectiveness of Plendil in children have not been established.

Adults over 65 years: The recommended dose is 2.5mg once a day.

People with liver problems usually require lower doses of Plendil and are carefully monitored while the dose is adjusted.

How should I take Plendil?

Plendil can be taken with a light meal which is low in fat and carbohydrates or without food. The tablets should be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed.

Try not to miss any doses. If Plendil is not taken regularly, your blood pressure may increase.

What should I avoid while taking Plendil?

Grapefruit and grapefruit juice increases the amount of Plendil in your body. The interaction could lead to potentially dangerous effects and should be avoided.

What are possible food and drug interactions associated with Plendil?

If Plendil is taken with certain other drugs, the effects of either could be increased, decreased, or altered. It is especially important to check with your doctor before combining Plendil with the following: anticonvulsants such as phenytoin, carbamazepine, or phenobarbital; beta-blocking blood pressure medicines such as metoprolol, propranolol, and atenolol; cimetidine; epilepsy medications such as carbamazepine and phenytoin; erythromycin; grapefruit and grapefruit juice; itraconazole; ketoconazole; tacrolimus; and theophylline.

What are the possible side effects of Plendil?

Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity, tell your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine if it is safe for you to continue taking this drug.

Side effects may include: flushing or a feeling of warmth, headache, swelling of the legs and feet, dizziness, a racing heartbeat, unusual tiredness

Can I receive Plendil if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?

The effects of Plendil during pregnancy and breastfeeding are unknown. Tell your doctor immediately if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding.

What should I do if I miss a dose of Plendil?

Take the missed dose as soon as you remember if it is within 12 hours then go back to your regular schedule. However, if it is more than 12 hours when you remember, skip the missed dose and take only the next regularly scheduled dose. Do not take a double dose of this medication.

How should I store Plendil?

Store at room temperature in a dry place.