Felodipine

What is felodipine?

Felodipine belongs to a group of medicines known as calcium channel blockers. It can be used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to prevent angina (chest pain). Felodipine functions by relaxing and widening blood vessels. This improves the heart's ability to pump blood throughout the body and increases the supply of oxygen to the heart. It’s known by the brand names Plendil, Cardioplen, Folpik, Felotens, Vascalpha, Neofel, and Parmid[1]. 

What is felodipine used for?

Felodipine is prescribed for high blood pressure (hypertension), to lower the risk of strokes, heart attacks and kidney problems. It’s also used for angina, to help prevent chest pain[1]. 

How does felodipine work?

Felodipine relaxes and widens blood vessels by blocking calcium movement into smooth muscle cells, reducing blood pressure and heart workload. This helps alleviate angina and manage high blood pressure[1]. 

Who can take felodipine?

Felodipine is generally suitable for adults aged 18 and over. However, it may not be appropriate for certain people, including those who[1]: 

• Are allergic to felodipine or any of the ingredients listed as part of the medication  

• Have severe liver problems 

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding or trying to get pregnant 

• Have heart failure or aortic stenosis 

• Have recently had a heart attack or severe chest pain  

Please tell your doctor or pharmacist about any conditions you may have or medication you take before you start treatment, and always follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2].  

How do you take felodipine?

Most adults will take felodipine once a day, usually in the morning. You can swallow the tablet whole with water – do not crush or chew the tablet as this can impair how your medicine works. Try to take it at the same time each day and avoid grapefruit juice, as it can increase the risk of side effects[1]. 

What is the typical dosage of felodipine?

Felodipine comes as slow-release tablets, working gradually through the day. The usual dosage of felodipine for adults is 5mg once a day. Some patients may start at 2.5mg once daily, depending on their condition. A typical maintenance dose is usually between 5mg and 10mg once daily. Your doctor or pharmacist may adjust your dose depending on how well the medicine works and whether you experience any side effects[1]. 

Can you stop taking felodipine suddenly?

Do not abruptly stop taking felodipine without medical advice, as this may cause a spike in blood pressure or the return of angina symptoms. Your doctor or pharmacist will guide you on how to safely stop treatment if you need to[1]. 

What should you do if you take too much felodipine?

Taking too much felodipine can cause symptoms such as dizziness, fainting, or a fast or slow heartbeat. If you experience this, contact your doctor or  111 immediately. If you need to go to A&E, do not drive. Ask someone to drive you or call 999 and ask for an ambulance. Take the medicine packaging with you so that healthcare staff know exactly what you’ve taken[1]. 

What should you do if you forget a dose of felodipine?

You can take a forgotten dose of felodipine if you remember shortly after it was due. However, if it is nearly time for your next dose, skip the missed one. Never take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose[1].  

What medicines should you avoid while taking felodipine?

If you take other blood pressure medication with felodipine, it can lower your blood pressure too much, so keep an eye on how you react the medicine you’ve been prescribed. You should also speak to your doctor if you also take[1]: 

• Beta-blockers such as propranolol 

• Certain antibiotics, such as erythromycin, rifampicin, or clarithromycin 

• Antifungal medicines such as itraconazole 

• HIV or hepatitis C treatments 

• Medicines to reduce immune reactions such as ciclosporin or tacrolimus 

• Anti-seizure medicines such as carbamazepine, phenobarbital, primidone, or phenytoin 

• St John’s Wort, a herbal remedy  

You should also not drink grapefruit juice while on this medication. 

Always inform your doctor or pharmacist about all medications and supplements you take before you start a new medicine, and follow the instructions in the Patient Information Leaflet[2]. 

What are the side effects of felodipine?

Like all medicines, felodipine can cause side effects. The common side effects are usually mild, and may include[1]: 

• Headache 

• Flushing  

• Swollen ankles (oedema) 

• Dizziness 

• Palpitations 

Serious side effects from felodipine are rare. If you notice worsening chest pain, or yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice),  seek urgent medical attention[1]. 

You should contact your GP if you experience any of these symptoms. In rare cases, the medicine may cause a serious allergic reaction (anaphylaxis). You should call 999 or visit A&E immediately if you believe this is happening[1]. 

Symptoms of anaphylaxis include[1]:  

• Difficulty breathing  

• Tightness in throat and chest  

• Swelling of the tongue or throat  

• Feeling faint or dizzy  

• Blue/grey skin or lips  

• Loss of consciousness 

If you experience any side effects, including those not listed, you are encouraged to report them via the Yellow Card Scheme or contact your doctor, pharmacist, or nurse. This information is intended as a summary for general awareness and does not replace professional medical advice. 

The information provided in the side effects section is not a comprehensive list of all possible side effects associated with this medication. For a complete list of side effects, please refer to the Patient Information Leaflet (PIL) provided with your medication or consult your healthcare professional[2]. 

Frequently asked questions about felodipine

How long does felodipine take to work? 

Once you start taking felodipine, you may notice an improvement in blood pressure within a few hours. Sometimes it can take a few weeks for the full effect[1]. 

Can I drink alcohol with felodipine? 

Alcohol can affect blood pressure and increase dizziness or light-headedness in some people. As such, it’s recommended only to use it in moderation while taking felodipine to minimise side effects[1]. 

Can I drive while taking felodipine? 

You can drive while taking felodipine if you feel well – but avoid driving if you feel dizzy or faint[1]. 

Is felodipine safe in pregnancy? 

Felodipine is rarely recommended during pregnancy. You should consult your doctor for advice if you are pregnant or trying to get pregnant. [1]. 

Can I take felodipine with food? 

Felodipine is safe to take with most foods, but avoid grapefruits and grapefruit juice as it can affect how the medicine works[1]. 

Can felodipine cause weight gain? 

Felodipine doesn’t directly cause weight gain, but it may cause swelling due to water retention, particularly in the ankles, as a fairly common side effect[1]. 

Is felodipine a beta-blocker? 

No, felodipine is a calcium channel blocker, not a beta-blocker medication[1]. 

Can I stop taking felodipine if I feel better? 

No, you should always speak to your doctor or pharmacist before stopping your felodipine medication, even if you feel well, as you should do so gradually[1]. 

For the official NHS guide to felodipine, visit their website.