Plendil: Effective Blood Pressure Control for Cardiovascular Health
| Product dosage: 5mg | |||
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Synonyms | |||
Plendil (felodipine) is a prescription medication belonging to the calcium channel blocker class, specifically formulated for the management of hypertension. It functions by relaxing and widening blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and thereby reducing elevated blood pressure levels. Consistent use under medical supervision can significantly lower the risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney problems. This medication is designed for long-term cardiovascular management and should be used as part of a comprehensive treatment plan that may include diet, exercise, and other lifestyle modifications.
Features
- Active ingredient: Felodipine
- Drug class: Dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker
- Available in extended-release tablet formulations (2.5 mg, 5 mg, 10 mg)
- Designed for once-daily dosing to support adherence
- FDA-approved for the treatment of hypertension
- Works by selectively inhibiting calcium influx into vascular smooth muscle
Benefits
- Effectively lowers systolic and diastolic blood pressure
- Reduces strain on the heart and arterial system
- May decrease the risk of cardiovascular events including stroke and myocardial infarction
- Once-daily dosing supports consistent treatment adherence
- Generally well-tolerated with a established safety profile
- Can be used as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive agents
Common use
Plendil is primarily indicated for the management of hypertension, either as monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive medications. It may be prescribed when first-line treatments are not sufficiently effective or when calcium channel blockers are deemed the most appropriate therapeutic choice based on individual patient characteristics. Some clinicians may also consider its use in certain cases of angina pectoris, though this represents an off-label application that requires careful clinical judgment.
Dosage and direction
The recommended starting dose for most adults is 5 mg once daily, which may be adjusted based on therapeutic response and tolerability. Dosage adjustments should typically occur at intervals of not less than 2 weeks. The maximum recommended dose is 10 mg daily. Tablets should be swallowed whole and not crushed, chewed, or divided. Administration should occur at approximately the same time each day, with or without food, though consistent administration relative to meals is recommended. For patients with hepatic impairment or elderly patients, a starting dose of 2.5 mg daily is recommended.
Precautions
Patients should be monitored for hypotension, particularly during initial titration or following dosage increases. Peripheral edema, which is dose-dependent, may occur and typically manifests as ankle or foot swelling. Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential to assess therapeutic response. Patients should avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice during treatment, as these may increase felodipine plasma concentrations. Caution is advised when rising from sitting or lying positions due to potential orthostatic effects. Dental procedures may require special consideration as felodipine can cause gingival hyperplasia.
Contraindications
Plendil is contraindicated in patients with known hypersensitivity to felodipine or any component of the formulation. It should not be used in patients with severe hypotension or cardiogenic shock. The medication is contraindicated in patients with unstable angina or acute myocardial infarction, particularly when associated with hemodynamic instability. Concomitant use with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors should be avoided unless the potential benefit justifies the risk.
Possible side effects
The most commonly reported adverse reactions include peripheral edema (dose-related), headache, flushing, and dizziness. Less frequently, patients may experience palpitations, fatigue, nausea, or abdominal discomfort. Gingival hyperplasia has been reported with long-term use. Serious but rare side effects include significant hypotension, syncope, worsening angina, or myocardial infarction—particularly during initial therapy or dosage increases. Allergic reactions including rash and pruritus may occur. Patients should report any persistent or bothersome side effects to their healthcare provider.
Drug interaction
Plendil interacts significantly with CYP3A4 inhibitors including ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin, and protease inhibitors, which may increase felodipine concentrations. Inducers of CYP3A4 such as carbamazepine, phenytoin, and St. John’s wort may decrease felodipine efficacy. Concurrent use with other antihypertensive agents may potentiate blood pressure-lowering effects. Beta-blockers may be used concomitantly but require monitoring for excessive bradycardia or heart block. Grapefruit juice should be avoided due to inhibition of CYP3A4 metabolism.
Missed dose
If a dose is missed, it should be taken as soon as remembered on the same day. If it is near the time for the next dose, the missed dose should be skipped and the regular dosing schedule resumed. Patients should not double the dose to make up for a missed one. Consistency in dosing is important for maintaining stable blood pressure control, so patients should strive to maintain their regular dosing schedule. If multiple doses are missed, patients should contact their healthcare provider for guidance.
Overdose
Symptoms of overdose may include severe hypotension, bradycardia or tachycardia, and shock. Management should include cardiovascular monitoring and supportive measures. Activated charcoal may be administered if ingestion was recent. Intravenous calcium gluconate may be considered for severe cases. Vasopressor agents might be necessary for profound hypotension, with careful attention to fluid status. Given the extended-release formulation, monitoring should continue for at least 24 hours as absorption may be prolonged. Symptomatic treatment should be provided as needed.
Storage
Store at room temperature (20-25°C or 68-77°F) in the original container, protected from light and moisture. Keep tightly closed and away from excessive heat or humidity. Do not store in bathroom cabinets where moisture levels may fluctuate. Keep out of reach of children and pets. Properly discard any medication that has expired or is no longer needed through medication take-back programs or following FDA-recommended disposal guidelines.
Disclaimer
This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Plendil is a prescription medication that should be used only under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional. Individual response to medication may vary, and only your healthcare provider can determine the appropriate treatment for your specific medical condition. Never adjust dosage or discontinue medication without consulting your physician. Report any adverse effects to your healthcare provider promptly.
Reviews
Clinical studies have demonstrated Plendil’s efficacy in reducing blood pressure with once-daily dosing. In randomized controlled trials, felodipine showed significant reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure compared to placebo. Long-term observational data suggest good tolerability and persistence with therapy. Some patients report satisfaction with the convenience of once-daily dosing and the generally mild side effect profile. However, peripheral edema remains a notable consideration in clinical practice. Healthcare providers often note its usefulness as part of combination therapy regimens for resistant hypertension.