Felodipine Medication: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects, and Interactions

Felodipine: Key Points and Overview

Felodipine is a medication commonly prescribed to manage high blood pressure (hypertension) and other heart-related conditions. It works by relaxing the blood vessels, which helps improve blood flow and reduces the heart’s workload, ultimately lowering blood pressure. Felodipine is typically taken once daily, and it’s important to follow your doctor’s instructions closely. Always consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your medication regimen.

Felodipine Brand Names and Generic Information

US Brand Name: Plendil (Felodipine)

The term “generic name” refers to the active ingredient in a medication, which is not associated with a specific brand. In this case, Felodipine is the generic name.

Pharmacologic Category: Calcium Channel Blocker

Felodipine belongs to a class of medications known as Calcium Channel Blockers, specifically the Dihydropyridine subclass. These medications are frequently used to treat high blood pressure and other cardiovascular conditions.

Felodipine Dosage Guidelines

Felodipine is prescribed for various cardiovascular conditions, and the dosage may vary depending on the specific condition being treated. Always adhere to your doctor’s instructions and consult them before making any adjustments to your dose. If you need to speak with a healthcare provider, you can schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our doctors.

Felodipine for Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Initial dose: 5 mg orally once daily

Maintenance dose: 2.5 mg to 10 mg orally once daily

Felodipine for Angina (Chest Pain)

Initial dose: 5 mg orally once daily

Maintenance dose: 5 mg to 10 mg orally once daily

Felodipine for Heart Failure

Initial dose: 2.5 mg orally once daily

Maintenance dose: 5 mg to 10 mg orally once daily

Felodipine for Coronary Artery Disease

Initial dose: 5 mg orally once daily

Maintenance dose: 5 mg to 10 mg orally once daily

Felodipine for Peripheral Vascular Disease

Initial dose: 5 mg orally once daily

Maintenance dose: 5 mg to 10 mg orally once daily

Felodipine for Atrial Fibrillation

Initial dose: 5 mg orally once daily

Maintenance dose: 5 mg to 10 mg orally once daily

Felodipine for Stroke Prevention

Initial dose: 5 mg orally once daily

Maintenance dose: 5 mg to 10 mg orally once daily

Felodipine for Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)

Initial dose: 5 mg orally once daily

Maintenance dose: 5 mg to 10 mg orally once daily

Felodipine for Diabetes-Related Cardiovascular Issues

Initial dose: 5 mg orally once daily

Maintenance dose: 5 mg to 10 mg orally once daily

Felodipine for Chronic Kidney Disease

Initial dose: 5 mg orally once daily

Maintenance dose: 5 mg to 10 mg orally once daily

Felodipine Dosage Forms and Strengths

Felodipine is available in extended-release tablets with the following strengths:

1. 2.5 mg
2. 5 mg
3. 10 mg

Felodipine Administration Instructions

Felodipine is taken orally, usually once daily. It’s important to take it at the same time each day, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole; do not crush or chew it, as this can release the drug too quickly, increasing the risk of side effects. If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but avoid doubling up on doses.

Felodipine Side Effects and Adverse Reactions

As with any medication, Felodipine may cause side effects. While not everyone will experience them, it’s important to be aware of potential risks. If you experience any severe side effects, contact your healthcare provider immediately. You can also schedule a telemedicine appointment with one of our doctors for further advice.

Common Felodipine Side Effects (Occurring in 1-10% of patients)

Headache: Mild to moderate headaches may occur, particularly when starting the medication.

Flushing: Some individuals may notice redness or warmth in the face.

Dizziness: Lightheadedness or dizziness, especially when standing up quickly, can occur.

Swelling (Edema): Swelling in the legs or ankles is common, especially at higher doses.

Less Common Felodipine Side Effects (Occurring in less than 1% of patients)

Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.

Palpitations: A sensation of a racing or irregular heartbeat.

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention)

Severe dizziness or fainting: This may indicate a significant drop in blood pressure.

Chest pain: If you experience new or worsening chest pain, seek immediate medical attention.

Allergic reactions: Symptoms such as rash, itching, swelling, or difficulty breathing require urgent care.

Felodipine Contraindications

A contraindication is a specific condition or situation where a particular treatment or medication should not be used because it may cause harm. It’s important to be aware of contraindications before starting any new medication, including Felodipine.

Contraindications for Felodipine

Severe Hypotension (Low Blood Pressure): Felodipine lowers blood pressure, so taking it when you already have low blood pressure can lead to dangerously low levels, causing dizziness, fainting, or even shock.

Allergy to Felodipine or Other Calcium Channel Blockers: If you have a known allergy to Felodipine or similar medications, taking it can trigger allergic reactions such as rash, swelling, or difficulty breathing.

Severe Aortic Stenosis: This condition involves narrowing of the aortic valve in the heart. Felodipine can worsen this condition by lowering blood pressure, which may reduce blood flow to vital organs.

Unstable Angina or Recent Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack): Felodipine may not be appropriate immediately after a heart attack or during unstable angina, as it can cause rapid changes in blood pressure that may worsen the condition.

Drug to Drug Interactions with Felodipine

Felodipine, like many medications, can interact with other drugs, potentially altering its effectiveness or increasing the risk of side effects. It’s crucial to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to avoid harmful interactions.

Medications That Interact with Felodipine

Simvastatin (Zocor): Taking Felodipine with Simvastatin may increase the risk of muscle damage (myopathy).

Carbamazepine (Tegretol): This anti-seizure medication can reduce Felodipine’s effectiveness by speeding up its breakdown in the liver.

Rifampin (Rifadin): An antibiotic used to treat tuberculosis, Rifampin can lower Felodipine levels in your body, reducing its effectiveness.

Itraconazole (Sporanox): This antifungal medication can raise Felodipine concentrations in your blood, increasing the risk of side effects like low blood pressure.

Grapefruit Juice: Although not a medication, grapefruit juice can elevate Felodipine levels in your bloodstream, leading to more pronounced effects and potential side effects.

Felodipine in Pregnancy

Is it safe to take Felodipine during pregnancy?

Felodipine is classified as a pregnancy category C drug by the FDA. This means that while no well-controlled studies have been conducted in pregnant women, animal studies have shown some risk to the fetus. Felodipine should only be used during pregnancy if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, consult your healthcare provider to determine if Felodipine is the right medication for you. Our telemedicine providers are available to help you make an informed decision.

Felodipine while Breastfeeding

Is it safe to take Felodipine while breastfeeding?

It is not well-established whether Felodipine is excreted in human breast milk. Due to the potential for adverse effects on the nursing infant, it is generally recommended to avoid Felodipine while breastfeeding. Consult your healthcare provider to weigh the risks and benefits. If you are breastfeeding and need treatment for high blood pressure or another condition, our telemedicine providers can help you explore safe alternatives.

Estimated Cost of Felodipine Medication

The cost of a 30-day supply of Felodipine without insurance can vary depending on the pharmacy and location. Using a GoodRX coupon, the estimated cost for a 30-day supply of Felodipine (10 mg) is around $10 to $15. Prices may vary, so it’s a good idea to check with your pharmacy or use a discount service like GoodRX to find the best price.

Possible Alternatives to Felodipine

If Felodipine is not suitable for you or you are looking for alternative treatments, there are other options available. Always discuss any changes to your treatment plan with your healthcare provider. Our telemedicine providers are here to help guide you through these options.

Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)

Other medications such as Lisinopril (Prinivil), Losartan (Cozaar), or Hydrochlorothiazide (Microzide) may be considered.

Lifestyle changes like reducing salt intake, regular exercise, and weight management can also help manage high blood pressure.

Angina

Other medications like Nitroglycerin (Nitrostat) or Beta-blockers such as Metoprolol (Lopressor) may be used.

Quitting smoking and managing stress can also help reduce angina symptoms.

Heart Failure

Other medications such as ACE inhibitors (e.g., Enalapril) or Beta-blockers (e.g., Carvedilol) may be prescribed.

Limiting fluid intake and reducing salt in your diet can help manage heart failure symptoms.

Coronary Artery Disease

Statins like Atorvastatin (Lipitor) can help lower cholesterol levels.

Regular exercise and a heart-healthy diet can help slow the progression of coronary artery disease.

Peripheral Vascular Disease

Medications like Cilostazol (Pletal) or Pentoxifylline (Trental) may be used to improve symptoms.

Walking programs and smoking cessation can also improve symptoms of peripheral vascular disease.

Atrial Fibrillation

Medications like Warfarin (Coumadin) or Apixaban (Eliquis) can help prevent blood clots.

Cardioversion or ablation procedures may be considered in some cases of atrial fibrillation.

Stroke Prevention

Antiplatelet medications like Aspirin or Clopidogrel (Plavix) can help reduce the risk of stroke.

Managing risk factors like high blood pressure, diabetes, and cholesterol through lifestyle changes is also crucial for stroke prevention.

Myocardial Infarction (Heart Attack)

Medications like Beta-blockers (e.g., Atenolol) or ACE inhibitors (e.g., Ramipril) may be prescribed after a heart attack.

Cardiac rehabilitation and lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and eating a heart-healthy diet are essential for recovery.

Diabetes-Related Cardiovascular Issues

Medications like SGLT2 inhibitors (e.g., Empagliflozin) or GLP-1 receptor agonists (e.g., Liraglutide) may be used to manage diabetes-related cardiovascular issues.

Blood sugar control through diet, exercise, and medications like Metformin (Glucophage) is also important.

Chronic Kidney Disease

ACE inhibitors (e.g., Lisinopril) or ARBs (e.g., Losartan) can help protect kidney function in patients with chronic kidney disease.

Controlling blood pressure and blood sugar levels through lifestyle changes and medications is essential for managing chronic kidney disease.

Recent Updates on Felodipine Research

Recent studies have focused on the long-term effects of Felodipine in managing hypertension and its potential benefits in reducing cardiovascular events. A 2022 study suggested that Felodipine may have protective effects on the kidneys in patients with chronic kidney disease, although more research is needed to confirm these findings. Additionally, ongoing research is exploring the use of Felodipine in combination with other medications to improve outcomes in patients with resistant hypertension. As new data emerges, it’s important to stay informed and discuss any changes with your healthcare provider. Our telemedicine providers are available to help you stay up-to-date on the latest treatment options.

James Kingsley

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