GENERIC NAME: FELODIPINE EXTENDED RELEASE - ORAL (fell-OH-dih-peen)

BRAND NAME(S): Plendil

Medication Uses | Other Uses | How To Use | Side Effects | Precautions | Drug Interactions | Overdose | Notes | Missed Dose | Storage | Medical Alert

USES: Felodipine is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). Lowering high blood pressure helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Felodipine is known as a calcium channel blocker. By blocking calcium, this medication relaxes and widens blood vessels so blood can flow more easily.

OTHER USES: This medication may also be used to prevent chest pain (angina).

HOW TO USE: Take this medication by mouth usually once a day on an empty stomach, or as directed by your doctor. If stomach upset occurs, felodipine may be taken with a light meal. Dosage is based on your medical condition and response to therapy. Swallow this medication whole. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets, which can destroy the long action of the drug and increase side effects. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day as directed. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. This drug is not effective if you use it only when chest pain occurs. It is very important to take this medication regularly as prescribed to help prevent chest pain. Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while being treated with this medication unless your doctor instructs you otherwise. Grapefruit juice can increase the amount of this medication in your bloodstream. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor. Some conditions may become worse when the drug is suddenly stopped. Your dose may need to be gradually decreased.

SIDE EFFECTS: Dizziness, lightheadedness, headache, flushing, or stomach upset may occur as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these serious side effects occur: swelling of the hands/ankles/feet (edema). Tell your doctor immediately if any of these unlikely but serious side effects occur: new or worsening chest pain, fast/irregular heartbeat. Although unlikely, felodipine may cause mild swelling of the gums. Massage your gums and brush and floss your teeth regularly to minimize this problem. See your dentist regularly. Tell your doctor immediately if any of these highly unlikely but very serious side effects occur: fainting. If you notice other effects not listed above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.

From the Doctors at MedicineNet.com

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