Plendil (felodipine) is a calcium channel blocker medication specifically designed 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. This medication is a trusted choice for long-term cardiovascular management, offering a targeted mechanism of action that helps patients achieve and maintain their therapeutic goals. Clinical use supports its role in reducing the risk of cardiovascular events associated with uncontrolled hypertension.

Features

• Active ingredient: Felodipine
• Drug class: Dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker
• Available in extended-release tablet formulations (2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg)
• Once-daily dosing regimen for patient convenience
• Designed for gradual and sustained release of medication

Benefits

• Effectively lowers high blood pressure, reducing strain on the heart and arteries
• Decreases the risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney problems associated with hypertension
• Promotes vascular relaxation without significantly affecting heart rate in most patients
• Supports long-term cardiovascular health through consistent 24-hour blood pressure control
• Minimizes peak-to-trough fluctuations in drug concentration due to extended-release formulation
• May be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive agents

Common use

Plendil is primarily indicated for the treatment of hypertension, either as initial monotherapy or as part of a combination regimen. It may be prescribed for patients who require vasodilation without substantial negative chronotropic effects. In some cases, it may be used off-label for certain cardiovascular conditions under specialist supervision, though hypertension management remains its principal application according to approved labeling.

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 2 weeks. The maximum recommended dosage is 10 mg daily. Tablets should be swallowed whole, not crushed or chewed, and may be taken with or without food—though consistency in administration relative to meals is advised. Administration in the morning is typically recommended to align with circadian blood pressure patterns.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored for signs of hypotension, particularly during initial titration or dosage adjustment. Peripheral edema may occur and typically presents as ankle swelling. Use with caution in patients with heart failure or severe aortic stenosis. Hepatic impairment may require dosage reduction due to altered metabolism. Grapefruit juice should be avoided as it may significantly increase felodipine bioavailability. Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential to assess therapeutic efficacy.

Contraindications

Plendil is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to felodipine or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in patients with severe hypotension or cardiogenic shock. The safety and effectiveness in pediatric patients have not been established, and use is therefore not recommended in this population.

Possible side effects

Common side effects may include peripheral edema, headache, flushing, and dizziness. Less frequently, patients may experience palpitations, fatigue, nausea, or gingival hyperplasia. Most adverse reactions are dose-dependent and often diminish with continued therapy. Serious but rare side effects include significant hypotension, syncope, or exacerbation of heart failure. Patients should report any persistent or severe symptoms to their healthcare provider.

Drug interaction

Plendil may interact with CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, protease inhibitors) potentially increasing felodipine concentrations. Inducers of CYP3A4 (e.g., carbamazepine, phenytoin) may reduce its efficacy. Concurrent use with other antihypertensive agents may potentiate blood pressure-lowering effects. Caution is advised with drugs that affect cardiac conduction or contractility. Healthcare providers should review all medications, including over-the-counter products and supplements, before initiating therapy.

Missed dose

If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered unless it is nearly time for the next scheduled dose. In that case, the missed dose should be skipped, and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Consistent daily administration is important for maintaining stable blood pressure control.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe hypotension, bradycardia or tachycardia, and shock. Supportive measures should be instituted, including cardiovascular monitoring and elevation of extremities. Vasopressors may be considered for hypotension refractory to fluids. As felodipine is highly protein-bound, dialysis is not likely to be beneficial. Gastric lavage may be considered if presentation is rapid after ingestion.

Storage

Store at room temperature (15-30°C or 59-86°F) in a dry place, protected from light and moisture. Keep in the original container with the lid tightly closed. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Do not use beyond the expiration date printed on the packaging. Proper disposal of unused medication should follow local regulations or medication take-back programs.

Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes and does not replace professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition or treatment decisions. Do not disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it based on information contained herein. Individual patient responses to medication may vary.

Reviews

Clinical studies demonstrate Plendil’s efficacy in blood pressure reduction with once-daily dosing convenience. Many patients report satisfactory control of hypertension with minimal disruption to daily activities. Some users note initial side effects that often diminish with continued use. Healthcare providers appreciate its predictable pharmacokinetics and compatibility with combination therapies. Long-term users frequently report stable blood pressure management when taken as prescribed alongside lifestyle modifications.