Plendil (felodipine) is a prescription medication belonging to the calcium channel blocker class, specifically formulated for the management of hypertension. It functions by relaxing and widening blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and thereby reducing elevated blood pressure. Consistent use under medical supervision can significantly lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney problems associated with chronic hypertension. This medication is designed for long-term cardiovascular management and should be taken exactly as prescribed by a healthcare professional.

Features

• Active ingredient: Felodipine
• Drug class: Dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker
• Available in extended-release tablet formulations (2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg)
• Designed for once-daily dosing to support adherence
• FDA-approved for the treatment of hypertension
• Works by selectively inhibiting calcium influx into vascular smooth muscle

Benefits

• Effectively lowers both systolic and diastolic blood pressure readings
• Reduces strain on the heart and arterial system
• May decrease the risk of hypertension-related complications including stroke and heart attack
• Once-daily formulation supports consistent treatment adherence
• Generally well-tolerated with a established safety profile
• Can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive agents

Common use

Plendil is primarily prescribed for the management of essential hypertension in adults. It may be used as initial monotherapy or as part of a combination regimen when blood pressure remains uncontrolled with single-agent therapy. Some clinicians may consider its use in specific cases of angina pectoris, though this represents an off-label application. The medication is typically incorporated into a comprehensive hypertension management plan that includes lifestyle modifications such as dietary changes, sodium restriction, regular exercise, and weight management when appropriate.

Dosage and direction

The recommended initial dosage for most adults is 5 mg once daily, which may be adjusted based on therapeutic response and tolerability. Dosage adjustments should occur at intervals not shorter than two weeks. The maintenance dosage typically ranges from 2.5 mg to 10 mg daily, with the maximum recommended dose being 10 mg per day. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed, chewed, or divided. Administration should occur at approximately the same time each day, with or without food, though consistent timing is recommended for stable plasma concentrations. Geriatric patients or those with hepatic impairment may require lower initial doses (2.5 mg daily) with careful titration.

Precautions

Patients should undergo regular blood pressure monitoring during treatment initiation and dosage adjustments. Hepatic function should be assessed periodically, as felodipine is extensively metabolized by the liver. Caution is advised in patients with heart failure or significant aortic stenosis due to potential negative inotropic effects. Peripheral edema, a common side effect, typically presents as mild to moderate ankle swelling and may be dose-dependent. Patients should avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice during treatment, as these can significantly increase felodipine bioavailability. Abrupt discontinuation should be avoided unless clinically indicated.

Contraindications

Plendil is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to felodipine or any component of the formulation. It should not be administered to patients experiencing cardiovascular shock or those with severe hypotension (systolic pressure <90 mmHg). The medication is contraindicated in patients with sick sinus syndrome or second- or third-degree AV block who do not have a functioning pacemaker. Use is also contraindicated in patients with acute myocardial infarction and pulmonary congestion documented by x-ray on admission.

Possible side effects

Common adverse reactions (occurring in >1% of patients) include peripheral edema, headache, flushing, dizziness, and fatigue. Less frequent side effects may include palpitations, nausea, dyspepsia, constipation, and muscle cramps. Rare but serious adverse effects include hypotension, syncope, tachycardia, gingival hyperplasia, and increased angina frequency. Allergic reactions including rash and pruritus have been reported. Patients should report any persistent or severe side effects to their healthcare provider promptly.

Drug interaction

Plendil may interact with CYP3A4 inhibitors including ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin, and HIV protease inhibitors, potentially increasing felodipine concentrations. Inducers of CYP3A4 such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, and St. John’s wort may decrease felodipine efficacy. Concurrent use with other antihypertensive agents may result in additive hypotensive effects. Beta-blockers may increase risk of heart failure in susceptible patients. Felodipine may increase serum levels of digoxin and tacrolimus requiring monitoring. Grapefruit juice should be avoided due to significant interaction potential.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day. If it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should never take a double dose to make up for a missed one. Consistency in dosing is important for maintaining stable blood pressure control, so patients should strive to take Plendil at the same time each day. If multiple doses are missed, patients should contact their healthcare provider for guidance.

Overdose

Felodipine overdose may manifest as pronounced hypotension, bradycardia or tachycardia, and reflex tachycardia. Severe cases may lead to shock, cardiac arrest, or metabolic acidosis. Management involves cardiovascular monitoring and supportive care including elevation of extremities. Activated charcoal may be administered if ingestion was recent. Intravenous calcium gluconate may help reverse calcium channel blockade effects. Vasopressors such as dopamine or norepinephrine may be required for hypotension unresponsive to fluid administration. Bradycardia may require atropine or cardiac pacing. Patients suspected of overdose require immediate medical attention.

Storage

Plendil tablets should be stored at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in their original container, protected from light and moisture. The medication should be kept out of reach of children and pets. Tablets should not be stored in bathroom cabinets where humidity levels may fluctuate. Unused medication should be properly disposed of according to local regulations or medication take-back programs. Patients should check expiration dates regularly and never use medication beyond its expiration date.

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Plendil is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to medication may vary, and only a healthcare provider can determine the appropriate treatment based on a patient’s specific medical condition, history, and current medications. Patients should not alter their dosage or discontinue treatment without consulting their physician. The complete prescribing information should be consulted before initiating therapy.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate that Plendil effectively reduces blood pressure in approximately 60-70% of patients with mild to moderate hypertension. Many patients report satisfactory control with once-daily dosing and appreciate the convenience of the regimen. Some users note initial side effects such as flushing or ankle swelling that often diminish with continued use. Healthcare providers frequently prescribe Plendil for its generally favorable side effect profile compared to some other antihypertensive classes. Long-term users often report stable blood pressure control and appreciate the reduced pill burden compared to multiple daily dosing regimens. As with all medications, individual experiences may vary based on specific health factors and concomitant conditions.