Why is this medication prescribed?

Felodipine is a medication primarily prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers. Felodipine works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure and improve blood flow.

How should this medicine be used?

Here’s how Felodipine is typically used:

• Dosage: The usual starting dose for Felodipine is usually 5 milligrams (mg) once a day. However, your doctor may adjust the dose based on your individual response to the medication.
• Administration: Felodipine tablets are usually taken orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor. It’s essential to take the medication exactly as prescribed. Do not crush, chew, or break the tablets, as this may affect their effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects.
• Timing: It’s typically recommended to take Felodipine at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in your bloodstream and achieve the best results.
• Follow-up: Your doctor may need to monitor your blood pressure regularly while you’re taking Felodipine to ensure it’s effectively controlling your hypertension.
• Duration: Felodipine is usually prescribed as a long-term treatment for high blood pressure. It’s essential to continue taking the medication even if you feel well, as stopping suddenly can cause your blood pressure to rise again.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose of Felodipine, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double dose to catch up.

It’s crucial to follow your doctor’s instructions carefully and report any side effects or concerns you may have while taking Felodipine. Additionally, do not stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor, as abruptly discontinuing it can lead to a rapid increase in blood pressure.

Other uses for this medicine

Other uses for Felodipine include:

• Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Felodipine may be prescribed off-label for Raynaud’s phenomenon, a condition characterized by reduced blood flow to the fingers and toes, causing them to feel cold and numb.
• Migraine Prevention: Some studies suggest that calcium channel blockers like Felodipine may be effective in preventing migraines, particularly in people who experience migraines with aura.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special precautions should be followed when taking Felodipine:

• Inform your doctor about any allergies you have, especially to Felodipine or other medications.
• Inform your doctor about your medical history, especially if you have liver disease, heart problems, or a history of low blood pressure.
• Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Felodipine, as it can increase the levels of Felodipine in your blood, leading to potentially harmful side effects.
• Inform your doctor about all the medications you are currently taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and herbal supplements. Some medications may interact with Felodipine, affecting its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects.
• Avoid consuming alcohol while taking Felodipine, as it can further lower your blood pressure and increase the risk of side effects.
• If you are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding, discuss the risks and benefits of taking Felodipine with your doctor, as it may not be suitable for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding.
• Monitor your blood pressure regularly as directed by your doctor and report any significant changes or symptoms to your healthcare provider.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and guidance regarding the use of Felodipine and any other medications you are prescribed.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

Regarding special dietary instructions for Felodipine, there aren’t specific dietary restrictions. However, as mentioned earlier, it’s essential to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Felodipine due to the potential interaction that can increase the medication’s levels in your blood.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• If you forget to take a dose of felodipine, take it as soon as you remember, unless it is almost time for your next dose. In that case, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.
• If you frequently forget doses, consider setting up reminders or alarms to help you remember.
• If you have any concerns or questions about missed doses, consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Felodipine, like any medication, can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them. Common side effects of Felodipine may include:

• Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling under the skin)
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headache
• Swelling in the ankles or feet
• Tiredness or fatigue
• Nausea or stomach discomfort
• Flushing
• Increased heart rate (tachycardia)
• Heart palpitations
• Constipation

These side effects are usually mild and may improve as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if any of these side effects persist or worsen, it’s essential to inform your doctor.

In some cases, Felodipine may cause more severe side effects that require immediate medical attention. These can include:

• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Irregular heartbeat
• Signs of liver problems (such as persistent nausea or vomiting, yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or persistent abdominal pain)
• Signs of an allergic reaction (such as rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing)

It’s important to seek medical help if you experience any of these severe side effects while taking Felodipine.

Additionally, Felodipine may rarely cause a condition called peripheral edema, which involves swelling of the lower limbs due to fluid retention. If you notice significant swelling in your ankles or feet, inform your doctor.

Remember to always discuss any concerns or side effects with your healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance and adjust your treatment plan if necessary.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

When it comes to the storage and disposal of Felodipine, here’s what you should know:

• Storage: Store Felodipine tablets at room temperature away from light and moisture. Keep the medication out of reach of children and pets. Do not store Felodipine in the bathroom or near the kitchen sink where it can be exposed to moisture.
• Disposal: Dispose of unused or expired Felodipine tablets properly according to local guidelines or regulations. Do not flush medications down the toilet or pour them into a drain unless instructed to do so. Instead, consult with your pharmacist or local waste disposal company on how to safely dispose of medications.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Seek Immediate Medical Attention: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms such as fainting, difficulty breathing, or irregular heartbeat, seek emergency medical attention by calling your local emergency services or going to the nearest emergency room.
• Provide Information: Provide as much information as possible to the medical professionals, including the amount of Felodipine ingested, the time of ingestion, and any other medications or substances taken.
• Do Not Induce Vomiting: Do not try to induce vomiting unless instructed to do so by medical professionals. Vomiting may not be safe or effective, especially if the person is unconscious or experiencing seizures.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Your doctor may need to monitor your blood pressure and overall health regularly while you’re taking Felodipine to ensure it’s effectively controlling your condition and to detect any potential side effects.
• Avoid Abrupt Discontinuation: Do not stop taking Felodipine suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to a rapid increase in blood pressure or worsening of your condition.
• Follow-up Appointments: Attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your doctor to assess the effectiveness of Felodipine and make any necessary adjustments to your treatment plan.
• Keep a List of Medications: Keep a list of all medications you are taking, including Felodipine and any over-the-counter drugs or supplements, and share it with your healthcare provider to prevent potential drug interactions.

By following these guidelines and staying informed about Felodipine, you can use the medication safely and effectively as part of your treatment plan for high blood pressure or other conditions as prescribed by your doctor.