Brand
name : PLENDIL (Felodipine)
Pronounced: PLEN-dill
Generic name: Felodipine
Why is PLENDIL (Felodipine) prescribed?
PLENDIL (Felodipine) is prescribed for the treatment of high blood pressure. It
is effective alone or in combination with other high blood pressure
medications. A type of medication called a calcium channel blocker,
PLENDIL (Felodipine) eases the workload of the heart by slowing down its muscle
contractions and the passage of nerve impulses through it. This improves
blood flow through the heart and throughout the body, reduces blood
pressure, and helps prevent angina pain (chest pain, often accompanied
by a feeling of choking, usually caused by lack of oxygen in the heart
due to clogged arteries).
Most important fact about PLENDIL (Felodipine)
If you have high blood pressure, you must take PLENDIL (Felodipine) regularly for
it to be effective. Since blood pressure declines gradually, it may
be several weeks before you get the full benefit of PLENDIL (Felodipine); you must
continue taking it even if you are feeling well. PLENDIL (Felodipine) does not cure
high blood pressure; it merely keeps it under control.
How should you take PLENDIL (Felodipine)?
PLENDIL (Felodipine) can be taken with a light meal or without food. The tablets
should be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed.
Try not to miss any doses. If PLENDIL (Felodipine) is not taken regularly, your
blood pressure may increase.
If you miss a dose...
Take the forgotten dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time
for the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to your regular
schedule. Never try to "catch up" by doubling the dose.
Storage instructions...
Store at room temperature. Protect from light.
PLENDIL (Felodipine) side effects
Side effects cannot be anticipated. If any develop or change in intensity,
inform your doctor as soon as possible. Only your doctor can determine
if it is safe for you to continue taking PLENDIL (Felodipine).
* Side effects may include:
Flushing, headache, swelling of the legs and feet
Why should PLENDIL (Felodipine) not be prescribed?
If you are sensitive to or have ever had an allergic reaction to PLENDIL (Felodipine)
or other calcium channel blockers, such as Calan and Procardia, you
should not take PLENDIL (Felodipine). Make sure your doctor is aware of any drug
reactions you have experienced.
Special warnings about PLENDIL (Felodipine)
PLENDIL (Felodipine) 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.
If you have congestive heart failure, PLENDIL (Felodipine) should be used with
caution, especially if you are also taking one of the "beta-blocker" family
of drugs, such as Inderal or Tenormin.
Your legs and feet may swell when you start taking PLENDIL (Felodipine), usually
within the first 2 to 3 weeks of treatment.
If you have liver disease or are over age 65, your doctor should monitor
your blood pressure carefully while adjusting your dosage of PLENDIL (Felodipine).
Your gums may become swollen and sore while you are taking PLENDIL (Felodipine).
Good dental hygiene will help control this problem.
Possible food and drug interactions when taking PLENDIL (Felodipine)
If PLENDIL (Felodipine) 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 (Felodipine) with the following:
Beta-blocking blood pressure medicines such as Lopressor, Inderal,
and Tenormin
Cimetidine (Tagamet)
Digoxin (Lanoxin)
Epilepsy medications such as Tegretol and Dilantin
Erythromycin (PCE, ERYC, others)
Itraconazole (Sporanox)
Ketoconazole (Nizoral)
Phenobarbital
Theophylline (Theo-Dur)
Taking PLENDIL (Felodipine) with grapefruit juice can more than double the blood
level of the drug.
Special information if you are pregnant or breastfeeding
Although the effects of PLENDIL (Felodipine) during pregnancy have not been adequately
studied in humans, birth defects have occurred in animal studies. If
you are pregnant or plan to become pregnant, inform your doctor immediately.
PLENDIL (Felodipine) may appear in breast milk and may affect a nursing infant.
If PLENDIL (Felodipine) is essential to your health, your doctor may advise you
to discontinue breastfeeding until your treatment is finished.
Recommended dosage for PLENDIL (Felodipine)
ADULTS
Overdosage
Any medication taken in excess can have serious consequences. If you
suspect an overdose, seek medical treatment immediately.
