Plendil

Plendil is the brand name for felodipine, a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker used to treat hypertension and stable angina. Felodipine works by inhibiting L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, causing relaxation and dilation of peripheral arteries. This reduces systemic vascular resistance and afterload, which lowers blood pressure and can improve myocardial oxygen supply during angina.

Indications include management of essential hypertension and chronic stable angina. Felodipine may be used for other forms of angina as determined by a clinician, and is available in oral formulations designed for once-daily dosing.

Administration and dosing are by mouth. Felodipine is often prescribed as an extended-release tablet to be taken once daily, with dosing individualized to response and tolerance. It may be adjusted gradually while monitoring blood pressure and symptoms. Do not abruptly discontinue; tapering is advised if stopping.

Warnings and precautions: felodipine should be used with caution in patients with low blood pressure, heart failure, significant liver impairment, or other conditions that affect hemodynamics. It is contraindicated in known hypersensitivity to felodipine or other dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, and in situations of acute severe hypotension or certain acute coronary syndromes.

Side effects commonly include edema (especially in the ankles), dizziness, flushing, palpitations, and fatigue. Other possible effects are gingival hyperplasia and nausea. As with other calcium channel blockers, interactions with strong CYP3A4 inhibitors or inducers, and with other antihypertensive medicines, can alter blood pressure and drug levels. Grapefruit juice may increase felodipine exposure. Pregnancy category varies by region; consult a clinician for guidance.