Plendil

Plendil is a prescription medication that belongs to the class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers. Its generic name is felodipine. Plendil is primarily used to treat high blood pressure and certain types of chest pain, known as angina. It works by relaxing the blood vessels, allowing for easier blood flow and reducing the workload on the heart.

Do’s and Don’ts

• Do not take Plendil if you are allergic to felodipine or any other ingredients in the medication.
• Do not take Plendil if you have a history of low blood pressure or certain heart conditions.
• Do not consume grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Plendil, as it can increase the levels of the medication in your body and lead to potentially harmful side effects.
• Do inform your healthcare provider about any other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, herbal supplements, and vitamins, as they may interact with Plendil.
• Do follow the prescribed dosage and take Plendil exactly as directed by your doctor.
• Do not stop taking Plendil suddenly without consulting your doctor, as this can lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure.

Managing Side Effects

Common side effects of Plendil may include headache, dizziness, flushing, ankle swelling, and fatigue. These side effects are generally mild and often go away on their own as your body adjusts to the medication. If any of these side effects persist or worsen, contact your doctor.

Serious side effects of Plendil are rare but can occur. These may include chest pain, fast or irregular heartbeat, severe dizziness or fainting, difficulty breathing, and swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek immediate medical attention.

How to Use

Plendil should be taken orally, with or without food, as directed by your doctor. The usual starting dose for high blood pressure is 5 mg once daily, which may be increased if necessary. For angina, the usual starting dose is 5 mg once daily or 2.5 mg twice daily, depending on your condition.

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume your regular dosing schedule. Do not take double doses to make up for a missed dose.

In case of an overdose, seek immediate medical attention. Symptoms of an overdose may include severe dizziness, fainting, rapid or slow heartbeat, and difficulty breathing. It is important to follow the dosage instructions given by your doctor to avoid the risk of an overdose.

Interactions Guide

Plendil may interact with certain medications, herbal products, and substances. Inform your doctor about all the drugs you are taking to prevent any potential interactions. Some common medications that may interact with Plendil include:

These are just a few examples, and there may be other drugs that can interact with Plendil. It is important to disclose all your medications to your healthcare provider.

Common Questions

• Can Plendil be used during pregnancy?
  
  Plendil is not recommended for use during pregnancy, as it may harm the unborn baby. Consult your doctor for alternative blood pressure medications.
• Is Plendil safe to use while breastfeeding?
  
  Plendil may pass into breast milk and harm a nursing baby. Talk to your doctor about the potential risks and benefits before taking this medication if you are breastfeeding.
• Can I drink alcohol while taking Plendil?
  
  It is generally recommended to avoid excessive alcohol consumption while taking Plendil, as alcohol can amplify certain side effects and interact with the medication. Discuss any alcohol use with your doctor.
• Does Plendil cause weight gain?
  
  Weight gain is not a commonly reported side effect of Plendil. If you experience unusual weight changes while taking this medication, consult your doctor.
• Can Plendil be taken with food?
  
  Plendil can be taken with or without food. However, avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice, as it can interact with the medication and affect its effectiveness.