Felogard 5mg Tablet ER

Introduction

Felogard is a prescription medication that contains the active ingredient Felodipine. It is available in tablet form and is commonly known by its brand name, Felogard. This medication is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults.

Uses

Felogard is prescribed to manage high blood pressure. It helps to relax and widen the blood vessels, allowing for smoother blood flow and reducing the workload on the heart. By controlling blood pressure, this medication can help lower the risk of heart attacks, strokes, and other cardiovascular complications.

Dosage and Administration

follow the dosage instructions provided by your healthcare provider. Felogard is typically taken once daily, with or without food. The tablet should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed or chewed. If you have difficulty swallowing, talk to your doctor about alternative options.

Mechanism of Action

Felogard belongs to a class of medications called calcium channel blockers. It works by blocking the entry of calcium into the smooth muscle cells of the blood vessels. This causes the blood vessels to relax and widen, which reduces resistance to blood flow and lowers blood pressure.

Side Effects

Common side effects may include headache, dizziness, flushing, swelling in the ankles or feet, and constipation. These side effects are usually mild and temporary. However, if they persist or worsen, consult your healthcare provider.

Serious side effects are rare but may include chest pain, rapid or irregular heartbeat, shortness of breath, severe dizziness, fainting, or swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat. If you experience any of these serious side effects, seek immediate medical attention.

Drug Interactions

Felogard may interact with other medications, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. Inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are currently taking to avoid potential drug interactions. Some common drug interactions include:

• CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Medications that inhibit the enzyme CYP3A4, such as certain antibiotics, antifungal drugs, and HIV protease inhibitors, may increase the concentration of Felodipine in the blood. This can lead to an increased risk of side effects.
• CYP3A4 Inducers: Medications that induce the enzyme CYP3A4, such as certain antiepileptic drugs and rifampin, may decrease the concentration of Felodipine in the blood. This can reduce the effectiveness of the medication.
• Grapefruit Juice: Grapefruit juice can increase the concentration of Felodipine in the blood, leading to an increased risk of side effects. It is advisable to avoid consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking Felogard.

Precautions

Before taking Felogard, inform your healthcare provider about any pre-existing medical conditions, allergies, or medications you are currently taking. Certain precautions should be observed, including:

• Contraindications: Felogard should not be used in individuals who are allergic to Felodipine or have a known hypersensitivity to calcium channel blockers. It should also be avoided in individuals with severe narrowing of the aortic valve or heart failure.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Felogard should be used with caution in pregnant or breastfeeding women. Discuss the potential risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Felogard may cause dizziness or drowsiness in some individuals. If you experience these side effects, avoid driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.

Storage

Patient Tips

• Take Felogard as prescribed by your healthcare provider, even if you are feeling well. High blood pressure often has no symptoms, and consistent medication use is important for effective management.
• Avoid consuming large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking this medication, as it can increase the risk of side effects.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule.
• Do not stop taking Felogard without consulting your healthcare provider, as abrupt discontinuation can cause a sudden increase in blood pressure.

Please note that this description, as well as the other content on our website is for educational purposes only. We do not provide medical advice. For specific medical advices, diagnoses and treatment options you should consult with your doctor.

References

• Felodipine: medicine to treat high blood pressure (NHS UK) [Accessed 28 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Cardioplen XL 10 mg Prolonged Release Tablets (Health Professionals SmPC) Available at:
• Felodipine (Drugs.com) [Accessed 3 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• felodipine er (RX) [Accessed 3 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Felodipine (MedlinePlus) [Accessed 21 Jun. 2024] (online) Available at:
• Dunselman PH, Edgar B. Felodipine clinical pharmacokinetics. Clin Pharmacokinet. 1991 Dec;21(6):418-30. doi: 10.2165/00003088-199121060-00003. [Accessed 9 Jun. 2024] Available at: