Plendil (Felodipine)
Medication information written by Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Updated - February 16, 2021
Plendil (Felodipine) Medication Information
Uses
Pendil is a calcium channel blocker that is used to treat high blood pressure.
Dosage
The tablets are available in several different strengths:
- 2.5 mg
- 5 mg
- 10 mg
Side Effects
The most common side effects of Plendil include:
- Edema
- Palpitations
- Nausea
- Constipation
- Headache
- Cough
- Sneezing
- Rash
Speak with your doctor for a full list of side effects that apply to you if you are taking Felodipine.
Precautions
Plendil can cause low blood pressure, so patients should be monitored when medication is started and with any dose increases.
Felodipine can actually worsen heart failure, so caution should be used if it is given to patients with heart failure.
Patients who have impaired liver function might have higher concentrations of Plendil.
Plendil like other calcium channel blockers can cause fluid retention. The fluid retention usually happens 2-3 weeks after starting Felodipine.
Interactions
The most common drug interactions with Plendil are listed:
- Ketoconazole
- Itraconazole
- Grapefruit juice
- Cimetidine
- Beta blockers
- Digoxin
- Anticonvulsants
Speak with your doctor for more information and before starting a new medication with Felodipine.
Storage
Store below 86ºF.
Pharmacist Tips
- Plendil can be titrated to achieve the best blood pressure reduction for each specific patient.
- Plendil is typically taken once a day.
- Felodipine should be swallowed whole, it should not be crushed or chewed.
Felodipine FAQs
How does Plendil lower blood pressure?
Plendil is a calcium channel blocker that works to dilate the blood vessels to lower blood pressure.
What are the side effects of Plendil?
The most common side effects seen with Plendil are edema, hypotension, headache, and stomach upset.
Does Plendil lower heart rate?
Plendil should not lower your heart rate.
What is Plendil used for?
Plendil is a medication used to treat high blood pressure.
What is a normal blood pressure?
Most medical organizations recommend patients to keep with blood pressure at 130/80 and below.
Related Drugs
Reference:
Plendil {package insert}. Wilmington, DE: AstraZeneca LP; 2012.
https://www.accessdata.fda.gov/drugsatfda_docs/label/2012/019834s025lbl.pdf
Author: Dr. Larisa Roybal, PharmD
Dr. Roybal is a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist who has practiced in both ambulatory and acute care settings. Her pharmacy interests include oncology and general inpatient pharmacy.
The above information is an educational aid only. It is not intended as medical advice for individual conditions or treatments. Talk to your doctor, nurse or pharmacist before following any medical regimen to see if it is safe and effective for you.