Plendil (Felodipine)

Do’s

• Take Plendil exactly as directed by your healthcare provider, usually once daily on an empty stomach.
• If you experience stomach upset, take it with a light meal.
• Swallow the tablets whole. Do not crush or chew them.
• Take Plendil consistently at the same time each day.
• Continue taking Plendil even if you feel well, as high blood pressure often has no symptoms.
• Discuss with your healthcare provider alternative pain management strategies if chest pain is a concern.

Don'ts

• Don't take Plendil with grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless your healthcare provider approves it.
• Don't stop taking Plendil abruptly. Discuss tapering the dosage with your healthcare provider before stopping.
• Don't take more than the prescribed dose.

Common side effects:

• Abdominal pain
• Diarrhea
• Dizziness or lightheadedness when rising from a sitting or lying position
• Flushing and feeling of warmth
• Frequent urination
• Headache
• Itchiness
• Nausea
• Sexual problems
• Skin rash
• Tingling in the hands, arms, feet, or legs
• Unusual tiredness or weakness
• Vomiting

Serious side effects that may require immediate medical attention include:

• Bleeding, tender, or swollen gums
• Fainting
• Irregular or fast, pounding heartbeat
• Worsening chest pain
• Fast heart rate
• A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out
• Heart problems - swelling, rapid weight gain, feeling short of breath
• Signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, itching/swelling (especially of the face/tongue/throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing

This is not an exhaustive list, and other side effects may occur. If you experience any unusual or severe side effects while taking Plendil,  contact your healthcare provider for medical advice.

Let your healthcare provider know if you have any allergies to Plendil or its ingredients.

Inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing health conditions, especially heart disease, liver disease, or swelling in your arms and legs.

Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you take (including Plendil) before any surgery.

Plendil may cause dizziness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or activities requiring alertness until it's safe. Limit alcohol and marijuana use, which can worsen dizziness.

Older adults may be more sensitive to side effects, especially dizziness.

Discuss the risks and benefits of Plendil with your healthcare provider if you're pregnant or plan to become pregnant. Consult your healthcare provider before breastfeeding as it's unknown if Plendil passes into breast milk.

Tell your healthcare provider about all medications you take (prescription, over-the-counter, and herbal products) to avoid potential interactions. Don't adjust medications yourself. Azole antifungals and macrolide antibiotics can affect how Plendil works.

Certain products like cough-and-cold remedies, diet aids, or NSAIDs can raise your blood pressure. Inform your healthcare provider about all medications you use to ensure safe use.