Plendil ER (Felodipine)
Complete patient guide for uses, dosage, side effects, and safety information
Quick Facts
What Is Plendil ER Used For?
Plendil ER is a medication that helps manage high blood pressure, also known as hypertension.
Primary Uses
It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure.
How It Works
Plendil ER works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow and lowering blood pressure.
Good to know: Plendil ER is not addictive.
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How to Take Plendil ER
Follow your doctor's instructions on how to take Plendil ER for optimal results.
Dosage Instructions
The usual starting dose is one tablet of either 2.5 mg or 5 mg taken once daily. If more than one tablet is prescribed, take them together. Swallow the tablets whole with a glass of water; do not chew, crush, or divide them.
What If You Miss a Dose?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, provided it is more than 12 hours before the next dose. If it is less than 12 hours, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not take a double dose.
Important: Never double the dose to make up for a missed one.
Available Tablet Strengths
Side Effects
Like all medications, this medicine can cause side effects. Most are mild and temporary, but some require medical attention.
Common Side Effects
These side effects occur relatively frequently and usually don’t require emergency care:
- Headache
- Swelling of the ankles
- Dizziness
- Flushing
- Palpitations
- Fatigue
Seek immediate medical attention if you experience:
- Skin rash
- Fainting
- Chest pain
- Rapid heartbeats
- Swelling of the face, tongue, or throat
- Difficulty breathing
Important Warnings
Be aware of the following warnings before taking Plendil ER.
Who Should Not Take Plendil ER
Do not take Plendil ER if you have a history of allergic reactions to it or any of its ingredients, or if you have conditions such as uncompensated heart failure, recent heart attack, or unstable angina.
Medical Conditions to Discuss
Inform your doctor if you have any heart problems, liver issues, or if you are lactose intolerant, as Plendil ER contains lactose.
Pregnancy and Breastfeeding
Do not use Plendil ER if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It may affect your baby. If you are breastfeeding, consult your doctor as the medication may pass into breast milk.
Drug Interactions
Certain medications may interact with Plendil ER and affect its effectiveness.
Grapefruit interaction: Avoid grapefruit juice as it can increase the effects of Plendil ER.
- Cimetidine
- Erythromycin
- Rifampicin
- Itraconazole
- Ketoconazole
- Phenytoin
- Carbamazepine
- Barbiturates
- St John's Wort
- Other blood pressure medications
Alcohol & Driving
Be cautious when consuming alcohol and operating machinery while on Plendil ER.
Alcohol
Limit alcohol intake while using Plendil ER and inform your doctor if you consume alcohol.
Driving and Operating Machinery
Exercise caution when driving or using machinery until you know how Plendil ER affects you.
Storage
Store Plendil ER below 25°C in a cool, dry place, and keep it in its blister pack until ready to use.
Overdose Information
If you suspect an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms may include headache, slow heartbeat, low blood pressure, dizziness, and nausea.
Frequently Asked Questions
Plendil ER typically starts to lower blood pressure within a few hours, but it may take several days to see the full effect.
You can take Plendil ER with or without food, but avoid grapefruit juice.
No, Plendil ER is not considered addictive.
Do not stop taking Plendil ER suddenly without consulting your doctor, as it may lead to a rapid increase in blood pressure.
Be cautious with alcohol consumption while taking Plendil ER and inform your doctor if you drink.
Weight gain is not a commonly reported side effect of Plendil ER.
Elderly patients should consult their doctor to ensure Plendil ER is safe for them, especially if they have other health conditions.
Important Disclaimer
This information is intended for general educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider or pharmacist before starting, stopping, or changing any medication.
If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately.