Why is this medication prescribed?

Plendil is a brand name for the generic drug felodipine, which belongs to a class of medications known as calcium channel blockers. It is primarily prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and certain types of chest pain (angina pectoris). Felodipine works by relaxing the blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood and reducing the workload on the heart.

How should this medicine be used?

Here are some general guidelines for the use of Plendil:

• Dosage: The usual starting dose is 5 mg once daily. The dosage may be increased to 10 mg once daily if necessary. Your doctor will determine the appropriate dosage based on your individual response to the medication.
• Administration: Plendil should be taken orally, with or without food. The tablet should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed or chewed.
• Monitoring: Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential during treatment to ensure that the medication is effectively controlling hypertension.
• Compliance: It’s important to take Plendil regularly and at the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the drug in your system.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• Grapefruit Interaction: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Plendil, as it may interact with the medication and lead to increased side effects.
• Side Effects: Common side effects may include headache, flushing, dizziness, or swelling in the ankles and feet. If these symptoms persist or worsen, contact your doctor.
• Precautions: Inform your healthcare provider about any other medications, supplements, or herbal products you are taking, as they may interact with Plendil. It’s important to inform your doctor about any pre-existing medical conditions, especially liver problems.

Always follow your doctor’s instructions and attend regular check-ups to monitor your response to the medication. If you have any concerns or experience unusual side effects, contact your healthcare provider promptly. This information is a general guideline, and individual circumstances may warrant different dosages or approaches.

Other uses for this medicine

Other uses of Plendil (off-label uses):

• Raynaud’s Phenomenon: Some healthcare providers may prescribe Plendil to manage symptoms of Raynaud’s phenomenon, a condition characterized by reduced blood flow to certain areas of the body, typically the fingers and toes.
• Vascular Headaches: In some cases, Plendil may be used to help prevent vascular headaches, although this usage is less common.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Plendil:

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Plendil should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed, and the potential benefits should outweigh the potential risks. It’s not recommended for use during breastfeeding, and alternative medications may be considered.
• Liver Impairment: Plendil is metabolized in the liver, so individuals with liver impairment may require a lower dosage. It’s important to inform your doctor if you have any liver conditions.
• Drug Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements, as they may interact with Plendil.
• Grapefruit Juice Interaction: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Plendil, as it can increase the levels of the drug in your bloodstream and lead to an increased risk of side effects.
• Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): Plendil may cause a drop in blood pressure, especially when standing up from a sitting or lying position. Be cautious when changing positions to avoid dizziness or fainting.
• Peripheral Edema: Swelling in the ankles and feet (peripheral edema) is a common side effect of Plendil. If severe or persistent, inform your healthcare provider.
• Allergies: If you have known allergies to felodipine or other calcium channel blockers, inform your doctor.
• Surgery: If you are scheduled for surgery, including dental surgery, inform your surgeon and anesthesiologist that you are taking Plendil.

Always follow your doctor’s advice, and inform them about any existing medical conditions or concerns you may have. It’s crucial to attend regular check-ups to monitor your response to the medication and discuss any potential side effects or issues. This information serves as a general guideline, and individual circumstances may require specific adjustments or considerations.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Grapefruit Interaction: Avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Plendil, as it can interfere with the metabolism of the medication and lead to increased side effects.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

If you forget a dose of Plendil:

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed one.
• If you are unsure about what to do, contact your healthcare provider for guidance.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Plendil (felodipine) is generally well-tolerated, but like any medication, it may cause side effects in some individuals. Common side effects are usually mild and may include:

• Peripheral Edema: Swelling in the ankles and feet is a common side effect of Plendil.
• Flushing or Warmth: Some individuals may experience a sensation of warmth or flushing.
• Headache: Headaches are a reported side effect.
• Dizziness or Lightheadedness: Changes in body position, especially when standing up, may cause dizziness or lightheadedness.
• Palpitations: Some individuals may experience a rapid or irregular heartbeat.
• Nausea: Nausea or stomach discomfort may occur.

These side effects are usually transient and may diminish as your body adjusts to the medication. However, if they persist or become severe, it’s important to inform your healthcare provider.

In rare cases, more serious side effects may occur. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience:

• Severe Dizziness or Fainting: This may indicate a significant drop in blood pressure.
• Swelling of the Face, Lips, or Tongue: This could be a sign of an allergic reaction.
• Symptoms of Liver Problems: Such as persistent nausea, vomiting, yellowing of the eyes or skin (jaundice), dark urine, or persistent abdominal pain.
• Signs of a Serious Allergic Reaction: Including rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or difficulty breathing.
• Chest Pain or Worsening Angina: Though rare, if you experience chest pain or worsening angina, seek medical attention.

It’s important to note that this is not an exhaustive list of side effects, and individual responses to medications can vary. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and inform them of any side effects you experience. If you have concerns about the side effects of Plendil, consult with your doctor.

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

Storage and Disposal of Plendil:

• Storage:
  • Store Plendil at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
  • Keep it in its original packaging or container.
  • Avoid storing it in the bathroom, as moisture can affect the medication.
• Disposal:
  • Dispose of expired or unused medication properly.
  • Do not flush Plendil down the toilet or pour it into a drain unless instructed to do so.
  • Consult your local pharmacy or healthcare provider for proper disposal instructions, which may involve a take-back program or a designated disposal facility.

In case of emergency/overdose

If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek emergency medical attention or contact your local poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.

Symptoms of overdose may include:

• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Rapid or irregular heartbeat
• Difficulty breathing

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Attend regular check-ups with your healthcare provider to monitor your blood pressure and assess your response to Plendil.
• Follow-up Appointments: Keep all follow-up appointments with your doctor to discuss the effectiveness of the medication and any potential side effects.
• Lab Tests: Your doctor may order periodic blood tests to monitor liver function, especially if you have pre-existing liver conditions.
• Non-Interchangeability: Do not substitute one brand of felodipine for another without consulting your doctor or pharmacist, as different formulations may have different bioavailability.
• Inform Healthcare Providers: Inform all healthcare providers involved in your care (including dentists and surgeons) that you are taking Plendil.
• Medication Records: Keep a record of all medications you are taking, including Plendil, and share it with your healthcare provider to avoid potential drug interactions.
• Dietary Restrictions: Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it can interact with Plendil and affect its effectiveness.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Plendil may cause dizziness. Avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions and consult them with any questions or concerns you may have about Plendil or its use. This information is a general guide, and individual circumstances may warrant specific considerations or adjustments.