Plendil

Plendil is an extended-release medication that is prescribed to treat high blood pressure. By slowing down the rate at which calcium moves into the heart and blood vessel walls, the drug can help decrease systolic and diastolic blood pressures. Plendil comes in tablet form and is typically taken once a day. Side effects may include headaches, weakness, and dizziness.

Plendil Medication Information

What Is Plendil?

Plendil^® (felodipine) is a prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension).

(Click Plendil Uses for more information, including possible off-label uses.)

Who Makes Plendil?

The medication is manufactured by AstraZeneca.

How Does It Work?

Plendil is part of a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. It works by slowing down the rate at which calcium moves into your heart and blood vessel walls. This, in turn, helps to relax the blood vessels, which improves blood flow and lowers blood pressure. It also makes it easier for the heart to pump blood.

There are two basic types of calcium channel blockers: dihydropyridine and non-dihydropyridine. The most important difference between the two is that non-dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers can slow down the heart rate, while dihydropyridine calcium channels do not. Plendil is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, which means that it does not have an effect on heart rate.

Effects

Plendil decreases blood pressure, possibly reducing the risks that can occur with long-term

high blood pressure (see Effects of High Blood Pressure). In clinical studies, the drug reduced systolic blood pressure by up to 18 mmHg, on average, and reduced diastolic blood pressure by 10.8 mmHg, on average.

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