Products
Felodipine is commercially available in the form of sustained-release tablets. In addition to the original Plendil, generic versions are also available. It has been approved in many countries since 1988.
Structure and properties
Felodipine (C18H19Cl2NO4, Mr = 384.3 g/mol) is a dihydropyridine. It exists as a white to pale yellow crystalline powder that is practically insoluble in water.
Effects
Felodipine (ATC C08CA02) has antihypertensive and vasodilator properties. The effects are due to blockade of calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle.
Indications
For the treatment of hypertension and angina pectoris.
Dosage
According to the SmPC. The tablets are usually taken once daily in the morning on an empty stomach or with a light breakfast. Felodipine should not be taken with grapefruit juice.
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity
- Pregnancy
- Decompensated heart failure
- Acute myocardial infarction
- Unstable angina pectoris
Full precautions can be found in the drug label.
Interactions
Felodipine is metabolized by CYP3A4. Appropriate drug-drug interactions with CYP inhibitors and inducers are possible.
Adverse effects
The most common possible adverse effects include flushing, headache, and peripheral edema. The side effects are largely a result of vasodilatation.
