Plendil (Felodipine) Detailed Information

The active ingredient in Plendil is **Felodipine**, a long-acting calcium channel blocker. Felodipine works by blocking the influx of calcium ions into the smooth muscle cells of the arteries. Calcium is a critical element in muscle contraction, and by blocking its entry, Felodipine causes the smooth muscles of the arteries to relax, resulting in vasodilation (widening of the blood vessels). This effect decreases the resistance the heart must work against to pump blood, thereby lowering blood pressure.

Felodipine has a prolonged action, which means it works steadily over an extended period, allowing for once-daily dosing, which improves patient compliance.

As with any medication, Plendil can cause side effects, although not everyone will experience them. Common side effects include:

• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: This is especially common when standing up too quickly, as Plendil can lower blood pressure.
• Swelling of the Legs or Ankles (Edema): This occurs because of fluid retention caused by the medication’s action on the blood vessels.
• Flushing: You may notice warmth or redness in your face, neck, or upper chest due to the widening of blood vessels.
• Headache: Some individuals experience headaches as a result of vasodilation or the changes in blood pressure.
• Heart Palpitations: A sensation of a racing or irregular heartbeat can occur in some individuals.
• Fatigue: Some patients report feeling unusually tired or lacking energy when taking Plendil.

Rare but serious side effects include:

• Severe Dizziness or Fainting: This may occur if the blood pressure lowers too much, especially during the first few days of treatment.
• Severe Allergic Reaction: Signs may include rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, and difficulty breathing.
• Chest Pain: Although rare, some people may experience chest pain or discomfort, which could be a sign of a more serious heart problem.

If you experience any of these severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately or go to the emergency room.

Plendil is typically taken once daily, with or without food. It is important to take the medication at the same time each day to help remember to take it regularly. Plendil is available in extended-release tablet form, which provides a gradual release of the medication into the bloodstream over a prolonged period.

Your doctor will determine the dosage based on your medical condition, response to the medication, and any other health factors you may have. The usual starting dose for treating high blood pressure is 5 mg once daily, which may be gradually increased to 10 mg once daily, depending on how well the medication works for you and how well you tolerate it.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose—do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.

Yes, Plendil can be taken with other medications, but there are some important considerations. It may interact with certain other drugs, potentially increasing the risk of side effects or affecting the way the medications work.

For example, Plendil should be used with caution if taken with:

• Other antihypertensives (blood pressure medications): Plendil may increase the effects of these drugs, which could lead to an excessive drop in blood pressure.
• Anti-fungal medications (like ketoconazole): These can increase the level of Felodipine in your bloodstream, leading to an increased risk of side effects.
• Rifampin: This antibiotic may decrease the effectiveness of Felodipine by increasing its metabolism.
• Grapefruit: Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can increase the concentration of Felodipine in your bloodstream, which could increase the risk of side effects.

Always tell your doctor or pharmacist about all the medications you are currently taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins.

Plendil typically begins to lower blood pressure within a few hours after taking it. However, its full effect may not be noticed immediately. It can take several days of consistent use for the blood pressure-lowering effects to become fully apparent, as the medication has a slow, steady onset of action due to its extended-release formulation.

It is important to continue taking the medication as prescribed, even if you do not immediately notice a significant change in how you feel. For the best results, consistent use over time is crucial in managing hypertension and preventing complications.

If you experience any severe side effects such as:

• Severe dizziness or fainting (especially when standing up quickly)
• Severe allergic reaction (such as rash, swelling of the face or throat, difficulty breathing)
• Chest pain or discomfort
• Irregular heartbeat or palpitations

Contact your healthcare provider immediately or go to the nearest emergency room. Severe reactions, though rare, may require prompt medical attention to prevent serious complications.

If you experience mild side effects such as swelling or headaches, consult your healthcare provider to determine if adjustments to your dosage are needed or if other treatments are necessary.