Felodipine
Hypertension, Variant Angina Pectoris
.svg)
Drug Status
Government Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
WHO Essential Medicine
NO
Known Teratogen
NO
Pharmaceutical Class
Dihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blocker
Controlled Drug Substance
NO
Felodipine
Summary
Felodipine is used to treat high blood pressure and stable angina pectoris. By reducing blood pressure, it decreases the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as strokes and heart attacks.
Felodipine is a calcium channel blocker. It works by relaxing the blood vessels, which reduces the heart's workload and improves blood flow. This action lowers blood pressure and enhances the flow of blood and oxygen to the heart.
Felodipine is typically taken once a day, without food or with a light meal. The usual daily dose for adults is 5 mg, which can be adjusted based on the patient's response. For children, specific dosing recommendations are not established.
Common side effects of Felodipine include headache, flushing, dizziness, and peripheral edema. Serious side effects include facial swelling, difficulty breathing, and fainting. If any of these effects persist or worsen, it's important to consult a doctor.
Felodipine should not be used during pregnancy or nursing. It's also contraindicated in patients hypersensitive to it. Caution is advised in patients with heart failure, compromised ventricular function, or impaired liver function. Always follow your doctor's advice for the best outcome.
Indications and Purpose
How does Felodipine work?
Felodipine is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing the blood vessels, which reduces peripheral vascular resistance. This action decreases the workload on the heart and lowers blood pressure. It selectively affects vascular smooth muscle, leading to vasodilation and improved blood flow.
Is Felodipine effective?
Felodipine is effective in lowering blood pressure by decreasing peripheral vascular resistance. Clinical studies have shown that it reduces both systolic and diastolic blood pressure and can be used in isolated systolic hypertension. It is also effective in improving exercise tolerance and reducing anginal attacks in patients with stable angina pectoris.
What is Felodipine?
Felodipine is used to treat high blood pressure and stable angina pectoris. It belongs to a class of medications called calcium channel blockers, which work by relaxing blood vessels, reducing the heart's workload, and improving blood flow. This helps lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events.
Directions for Use
For how long do I take Felodipine?
Felodipine is typically used as a long-term treatment for high blood pressure. It is important to continue taking it even if you feel well, as it controls but does not cure high blood pressure. Always follow your doctor's instructions regarding the duration of use.
How do I take Felodipine?
Felodipine should be taken once a day, either without food or with a light meal. Avoid grapefruit juice, as it can increase the medication's levels in your blood. Swallow the tablets whole without crushing or chewing them, and take them at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
How long does it take for Felodipine to start working?
Felodipine generally starts to reduce blood pressure within 2 to 5 hours after administration. However, substantial blood pressure control is achieved with chronic administration, lasting for 24 hours. Always follow your doctor's instructions for the best results.
How should I store Felodipine?
Store Felodipine at room temperature, between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F). Keep the container tightly closed and protect it from light. Ensure it is out of reach of children and away from excess heat and moisture, not in the bathroom.
What is the usual dose of Felodipine?
The usual daily dose for adults is 5 mg once a day, which can be adjusted to 2.5 mg or increased to 10 mg based on the patient's response. For children, there is limited clinical trial experience, and specific dosing recommendations are not established. Always follow a doctor's advice for dosing.
Warnings and Precautions
Can Felodipine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
It is not known whether Felodipine is secreted in human milk. Due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in infants, a decision should be made whether to discontinue nursing or the drug, considering the importance of the medication to the mother. Consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can Felodipine be taken safely while pregnant?
Felodipine should not be used during pregnancy as it may cause fetal developmental effects. Animal studies have shown digital anomalies in fetuses, possibly due to compromised uterine blood flow. There are no adequate and well-controlled studies in pregnant women, so it is important to consult a doctor for personalized advice.
Can I take Felodipine with other prescription drugs?
Felodipine interacts with CYP3A4 inhibitors like ketoconazole, itraconazole, erythromycin, and grapefruit juice, which can increase its plasma levels. Cimetidine also increases Felodipine levels. These interactions may lead to increased effects, such as lower blood pressure and increased heart rate. Caution is advised when using these substances.
Is Felodipine safe for the elderly?
Elderly patients may have higher plasma concentrations of Felodipine, so dose selection should be cautious, usually starting at the low end of the dosing range (2.5 mg daily). Their blood pressure should be closely monitored during any dosage adjustment to ensure safety and effectiveness.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Felodipine?
Felodipine does not specifically limit the ability to exercise. However, it can cause dizziness or fatigue, which might affect your ability to perform physical activities. If you experience these side effects, consult your doctor for advice on managing them while maintaining an active lifestyle.
Who should avoid taking Felodipine?
Felodipine is contraindicated in patients who are hypersensitive to it. It may cause significant hypotension and reflex tachycardia, which can lead to myocardial ischemia in susceptible patients. Caution is advised in patients with heart failure or compromised ventricular function, and those with impaired liver function may require lower doses.
Forms / Brands
