Plendil

(Felodipine ER)

The active ingredient in Plendil is felodipine, which is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker. It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which allows blood to flow more easily. This helps lower blood pressure and improves blood flow to the heart, reducing chest pain in people with angina.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide before using Plendil. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Plendil:

• Take Plendil exactly as prescribed by your healthcare professional. Your healthcare provider will know what dose is best for you.
• Plendil is taken by mouth, usually once daily, with or without food. Swallow the extended-release tablets whole with water. Do not crush, chew, or split them.
• Avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking Plendil, as it can affect how the drug is processed in the body.
• If you miss a dose, take your next dose at the regular time. Do not take two doses at once.
• Elderly patients or those with liver problems may need lower starting doses.

Some mild or common side effects of Plendil include:

• Swelling of the ankles, feet, or lower legs due to fluid retention.
• Headache.
• Flushing or redness of the skin.
• Lightheadedness or dizziness, especially when starting treatment.
• Palpitations or increased heart rate.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Plendil. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Very low blood pressure (hypotension), which may cause fainting.
• Severe chest pain or worsening angina.
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as hives, skin rash, itching, swelling of the face or throat, or trouble breathing.
• Symptoms of heart failure include shortness of breath, unusual fatigue, severe swelling, or sudden weight gain.

These are not all of the possible adverse events of Plendil. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Plendil, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including if you have:

• Low blood pressure or a history of fainting.
• Heart problems, such as heart failure or a recent heart attack.
• Liver disease can affect how felodipine is processed.
• A history of allergic reaction to calcium channel blockers.
• Swelling or edema related to previous antihypertensive therapy.
• Lactose intolerance, as the tablets contain lactose.

Allergic to felodipine or any ingredients in the tablet. Some inactive ingredients include hydroxypropyl cellulose, lactose, sodium stearyl fumarate, yellow iron oxide, and titanium dioxide.

Plendil begins to lower blood pressure within a few hours after the first dose. Because it is an extended-release medication, its effects are gradual and steady throughout the day. Full blood pressure control may take several days to weeks of regular use, based on pharmacokinetic properties such as its half-life and how your body responds to treatment.

When Plendil is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• Grapefruit juice can increase felodipine levels by affecting CYP3A4 metabolism.
• Erythromycin or itraconazole may raise felodipine levels and increase side effects.
• Ketoconazole or other strong CYP3A4 inhibitors may increase the risk of low blood pressure.
• Cimetidine can increase felodipine exposure.
• Carbamazepine, phenytoin, or barbiturates may lower felodipine levels and reduce effectiveness.
• Tacrolimus, as felodipine may increase tacrolimus blood levels.

Plendil is available as extended-release tablets containing 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg of felodipine.

Your healthcare professional will determine the correct dose based on your age, response to treatment, and other medications you may be taking.

It should be stored at room temperature, away from the reach of children or pets.

Plendil is manufactured by AstraZeneca.

Yes. Plendil is the brand name for felodipine. Generic felodipine extended-release tablets are available.

Do not stop taking Plendil without speaking to your healthcare professional. Stopping blood pressure medication suddenly may cause your blood pressure to rise. Your provider will guide you on how to safely stop or change your treatment if needed.

Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. Your healthcare professional will weigh the benefits and risks of using Plendil during pregnancy and recommend what is best for you.

Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. Felodipine passes into breast milk in small amounts, and your healthcare professional will advise whether Plendil is appropriate during lactation.