Felodipine

Other Names: Plendil

Commonly Prescribed For: Felodipine is used for the treatment of high blood pressure. It may be prescribed for use on its own or combined with other forms of high blood pressure medication.

How to Take It: Felodipine comes in tablet form and should be taken orally once a day with water. The tablet should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed or chewed. Food can reduce the absorption of Felodipine so ideally it should not be taken with food or at the very minimum with a light snack. Grapefruit can increase the absorption of the drug and this can lead to unexpected reductions in blood pressure. Felodipine should not be taken if you have a history of low blood pressure.

How It Works: Felodipine works by decelerating the contractions of the heart muscles and the nerve sensations that pass through the heart. It is known as a calcium channel blocker. By doing this, Felodipine improves blood flow and reduces blood pressure. This in turn helps to avert any chest pain which can be the result of blocked arteries.

Some Side Effects: Side effects of Felodipine can include dizziness, headaches, nausea, flushing, diarrhea and weakness. More serious side effects can include trouble breathing; palpitations; chest pain; lightheadedness; fainting; swelling of the mouth, or tongue; and impotence.