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. This medication is part of a comprehensive treatment plan that often includes lifestyle modifications such as diet and exercise.

Features

• Active ingredient: Felodipine
• Drug class: Dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker
• Available formulations: Extended-release tablets (2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg)
• Administration: Oral, once daily
• Mechanism: Selective inhibition of calcium influx into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle

Benefits

• Provides consistent 24-hour blood pressure control with a single daily dose
• Reduces peripheral vascular resistance, easing the workload on the heart
• Demonstrates vasoselectivity with minimal effect on cardiac contractility
• May be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive agents
• Shows proven efficacy in diverse patient populations including elderly patients
• Contributes to long-term cardiovascular risk reduction when used as prescribed

Common use

Plendil is primarily indicated for the treatment of hypertension, either as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive medications. It may also be used off-label for certain cases of chronic stable angina pectoris, though this is not its primary indication. The medication is typically prescribed as part of a comprehensive cardiovascular risk management strategy that includes lifestyle modifications. Treatment is usually long-term, requiring regular monitoring of blood pressure and potential dose adjustments based on therapeutic response and tolerability.

Dosage and direction

The recommended starting dose for most adults is 5 mg once daily, which may be adjusted based on individual response. Dosage adjustments should generally occur at intervals not shorter than 2 weeks. The maximum recommended dose is 10 mg daily. Tablets should be swallowed whole with a glass of water and not crushed or chewed. Administration should occur at approximately the same time each day, with or without food, though consistent administration relative to meals is recommended. For elderly patients or those with hepatic impairment, a starting dose of 2.5 mg daily is recommended with careful titration.

Precautions

Patients should be monitored for hypotension, particularly during initial titration or when increasing the dose. Peripheral edema, which is dose-dependent, may occur and typically manifests as ankle swelling. Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential to assess therapeutic response. Patients with severe left ventricular dysfunction should use Plendil with caution. Hepatic impairment may increase felodipine plasma concentrations, requiring dose adjustment. Grapefruit juice should be avoided as it may increase bioavailability of felodipine. Patients should be cautioned about potential dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when rising quickly from sitting or lying positions.

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 medication is contraindicated in patients with unstable angina or acute myocardial infarction, particularly when associated with hemodynamic instability. Concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors that cannot be discontinued is also contraindicated due to the risk of significantly increased felodipine exposure.

Possible side effects

Common side effects (occurring in >1% of patients) include peripheral edema, headache, flushing, and dizziness. Less frequent adverse reactions may include palpitations, fatigue, nausea, abdominal discomfort, and gingival hyperplasia. Serious but rare side effects include significant hypotension, syncope, tachycardia, and myocardial ischemia. Allergic reactions including rash and pruritus have been reported. Most side effects are dose-dependent and often diminish with continued therapy. Patients should report any persistent or bothersome side effects to their healthcare provider.

Drug interaction

Plendil undergoes extensive metabolism by CYP3A4, making it susceptible to interactions with drugs that inhibit or induce this enzyme system. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (ketoconazole, itraconazole, clarithromycin) may significantly increase felodipine levels. CYP3A4 inducers (carbamazepine, phenytoin, rifampin) may decrease felodipine concentrations. Concurrent use with other antihypertensive agents may result in additive hypotensive effects. Beta-blockers may be used concomitantly but require monitoring for excessive bradycardia or hypotension. Grapefruit juice should be avoided as it may increase felodipine bioavailability by inhibiting intestinal CYP3A4.

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 not take a double dose to make up for a missed dose. Maintaining a consistent dosing schedule is important for optimal blood pressure control. Patients who frequently miss doses should discuss this with their healthcare provider, as inconsistent medication administration may compromise blood pressure management.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include severe hypotension, bradycardia or tachycardia, and shock. Management should include cardiovascular monitoring and supportive measures. Active hypotension should be treated with vasopressors such as norepinephrine, with careful attention to circulating fluid volume. Calcium gluconate administration may be considered to reverse the effects of calcium channel blockade. As felodipine is highly protein-bound, dialysis is not likely to be beneficial. Gastric lavage may be considered if presentation is early after ingestion. All suspected overdoses require immediate medical attention.

Storage

Store at room temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F) in the original container. Protect from light and moisture. Keep tightly closed and out of reach of children. Do not store in bathroom areas where moisture levels may be high. Do not use if tablets appear discolored or show signs of deterioration. Proper disposal of unused medication should follow local regulations, typically through medication take-back programs rather than flushing or household trash disposal.

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 treatment decisions should be based on professional medical judgment considering the patient’s complete medical history and current condition. Patients should not alter their dosage or discontinue medication without consulting their healthcare provider.

Reviews

Clinical studies have demonstrated Plendil’s efficacy in reducing both systolic and diastolic blood pressure across diverse patient populations. The medication shows particular benefit in elderly patients and those with isolated systolic hypertension. Long-term extension studies indicate maintained efficacy with good tolerability profile over extended treatment periods. Real-world evidence supports its effectiveness in clinical practice when used as part of a comprehensive hypertension management strategy. Patient satisfaction surveys indicate good adherence rates attributed to once-daily dosing and generally favorable side effect profile compared to other antihypertensive classes.