Felodipine extended-release tablets

What is this medicine?

FELODIPINE (fe LOE di peen) is a calcium-channel blocker. It affects the amount of calcium found in your heart and muscle cells. This relaxes your blood vessels, which can reduce the amount of work the heart has to do. This medicine is used to lower high blood pressure.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. Do not crush or chew. Take this medicine either on an empty stomach or with a light meal. Take your doses at regular intervals. Do not take your medicine more often then directed. Do not suddenly stop taking this medicine. Ask your doctor or health care professional how you can gradually reduce the dose.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. Special care may be needed.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• fainting spells, lightheadedness

• irregular heartbeat, chest pain, palpitations

• swelling of the legs and ankles

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• constipation

• decreased sexual function or desire

• facial flushing

• headache

• nausea

• weakness or tiredness

What may interact with this medicine?

Do not take this medicine with any of the following medications:

• grapefruit juice

This medicine may also interact with the following medications:

• cimetidine

• medicines for fungal infections like fluconazole, itraconazole, ketoconazole, voriconazole

• medicines for high blood pressure

• medicines for seizures like carbamazepine, phenobarbital, and phenytoin

• certain antibiotics like clarithromycin and erythromycin

• some medicines for heart-rhythm problems

• tacrolimus

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature below 30 degrees C (86 degrees F). Keep container tightly closed. Protect from light. Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• heart problems, low blood pressure, slow or irregular heartbeat

• liver disease

• previous heart attack

• an unusual or allergic reaction to felodipine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your doctor or health care professional for regular check ups. Check your blood pressure and pulse rate regularly. Ask your health care professional what your blood pressure and pulse rate should be, and when you should contact him or her.

You may get drowsy or dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this drug affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Alcohol can make you more drowsy and dizzy. Avoid alcoholic drinks.

This medicine can cause dental problems for some patients. Clean and floss your teeth carefully and regularly. Check with your dentist if your gums get swollen or inflamed and have the dentist clean your teeth regularly.