Information about Plendil (Felodipine ER)
Plendil is the brand name for Felodipine ER (extended-release), a medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and, in some cases, angina (chest pain). Felodipine belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers, which work by relaxing the blood vessels to allow blood to flow more easily, thereby lowering blood pressure and reducing the heart’s workload.
Product Highlights
- Plendil is most commonly prescribed for the management of high blood pressure. By lowering blood pressure, it reduces the risk of complications such as heart attack, stroke, and kidney damage.
- Plendil may also be used in the treatment of stable angina (chest pain) to reduce the frequency and severity of angina attacks by improving blood flow to the heart.
Key Ingredient
Key Benefits
- Plendil is effective in reducing blood pressure, helping to manage hypertension and prevent related complications like heart disease and stroke.
- By dilating the coronary arteries, Plendil helps to reduce the frequency of chest pain (angina) and improve heart function in patients with coronary artery disease.
- As an extended-release formulation, Plendil is taken once daily, offering convenience for patients and improving adherence to treatment.
- Unlike some other calcium channel blockers, Felodipine primarily affects blood vessels rather than the heart rate, making it a favorable option for patients who may be sensitive to changes in heart rate.
Direction of Use
- The usual starting dose of Plendil is 5 mg once daily, which may be increased to 10 mg once daily based on the patient's response to blood pressure treatment and tolerance.
- Plendil should be taken orally once daily, ideally at the same time each day. The tablet should be swallowed whole with water, and should not be crushed or chewed to maintain its extended-release properties.
- Plendil can be taken with or without food.
- It's important to take the medication consistently, as directed by a healthcare provider, to maintain effective blood pressure control.
Safety Concerns
- Plendil can cause a significant drop in blood pressure, especially when starting treatment or increasing the dose. Patients should be monitored for signs of hypotension (low blood pressure), such as dizziness or fainting.
- A common side effect of calcium channel blockers like Plendil is peripheral edema, which is swelling in the lower legs and ankles due to fluid retention.
- Although Felodipine mainly acts on blood vessels, in rare cases, it may cause changes in heart rate, such as an increase in heart rate (reflex tachycardia).
- Felodipine is metabolized in the liver, so patients with liver problems should use it with caution, and liver function should be monitored.
- Plendil may interact with other medications, including certain antifungal drugs, antibiotics, and other antihypertensive agents. It is essential to inform the doctor of all medications being taken.
- Felodipine should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. It is also excreted in breast milk, so caution should be taken if breastfeeding.
Avoid Plendil (Felodipine ER) If
- Plendil should not be used in patients with severe low blood pressure (hypotension), as it may exacerbate this condition.
- Patients with severe liver disease should avoid Plendil, as the drug is metabolized in the liver and impaired liver function may lead to higher drug concentrations and an increased risk of side effects.
- If you have a known allergy to felodipine or any of the other ingredients in Plendil, it should not be used.
- Plendil should not be used in patients with certain heart conditions, such as unstable angina or heart failure, without the guidance of a healthcare provider.
- Plendil is not advised during pregnancy unless the potential benefits justify the risks to the fetus.
- Breastfeeding mothers should exercise caution, as Plendil may be excreted in breast milk.
