FELODIPINE EXTENDED RELEASE-ORAL (cont.)
PRECAUTIONS: Before taking felodipine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or if you have any other allergies. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially of: heart disease (e.g., congestive heart failure), liver disease, swelling of the arms and legs (edema). Before having surgery, tell your doctor or dentist that you are taking this medication. This drug may make you dizzy; use caution engaging in activities requiring alertness such as driving or using machinery. Limit alcoholic beverages. To minimize dizziness and lightheadedness, get up slowly when rising from a seated or lying position. Caution is advised when using this drug in the elderly because they may be more sensitive to its side effects, especially dizziness. This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor. It is not known whether this drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breast-feeding.
DRUG INTERACTIONS: See also How to Use section. Before using this medication, it is important to tell your doctor or pharmacist of all prescription and nonprescription/herbal products you may use, especially of: other medications for high blood pressure, intravenous (IV) calcium. Also tell your doctor or pharmacist if you take drugs affecting the removal of felodipine from your system (CYP 3A4 substrates, inhibitors and inducers) such as: azole antifungals (e.g., itraconazole, ketoconazole), certain anti-seizure medications (e.g., carbamazepine, phenobarbital, phenytoin), cimetidine, macrolide antibiotics (e.g., erythromycin), tacrolimus. Check the labels on all your medicines (e.g., cough-and-cold products, diet aids, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs or NSAIDs for pain/fever reduction) because they may contain ingredients that could increase your blood pressure. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of these products. Do not start or stop any medicine without doctor or pharmacist approval.
Report Problems to the Food and Drug Administration
You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit the FDA MedWatch website or call 1-800-FDA-1088.
- Calcium Channel Blockers - Establishes the medication calcium channel blockers (CCBs), which are drugs used for treating high blood pressure, angina, and abnormal heart rhythms like atrial fibrillation.
- High Blood Pressure Treatment - Read about high blood pressure treatments including calcium channel blockers, beta blockers, ACE inhibitors, ARBs, diuretics, and clonidine (Catapres).
- Drug Interactions - Learn about potential drug interactions you may be exposed to. Drug interactions can occur with prescription drugs, OTC medication, vitamins, herbs, and supplements.
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