Felodipine — what it does and why you should care

Felodipine is a blood pressure medicine from the dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker family. It relaxes blood vessels so blood flows more easily and your heart doesn’t have to work as hard. People take it mainly for high blood pressure, sometimes for angina (chest pain). If you take a blood pressure pill and want a simple rundown—this is it.

How felodipine works & who it helps

Felodipine blocks calcium entry into the muscle cells lining blood vessels. That widening of vessels lowers blood pressure. Doctors often choose felodipine when they want an effective once-daily option with fewer effects on heart rhythm than some other drugs. It’s useful for adults with essential hypertension and for patients who get leg or chest cramps from other meds. Your doctor may prefer it if you have certain drug interactions to avoid.

Typical dosing starts at 2.5–5 mg once daily (extended-release). Many people end up on 5–10 mg once daily depending on response and side effects. Older adults or people with liver problems may need lower doses. Never change the dose without checking with your prescriber.

Side effects, interactions, and practical tips

Common side effects include headache, flushing, dizziness, rapid heartbeat, and ankle swelling (peripheral edema). These often appear early and may lessen after a few weeks. Severe reactions are rare but worth watching for: fainting, chest pain that’s worse, or signs of an allergic reaction. If any of those happen, seek medical help immediately.

One of the most important points: grapefruit and grapefruit juice can dramatically raise felodipine levels. Grapefruit blocks the enzyme (CYP3A4) that breaks the drug down, which can cause too-low blood pressure or bad side effects. The same risk applies to some antibiotics (like erythromycin), certain antifungals, and HIV protease inhibitors. Tell your doctor about all drugs and supplements you use.

Check your blood pressure at home when you start felodipine and after dose changes. Keep a simple log and bring it to follow-up visits. If you notice new swelling in your feet, increasing dizziness, or persistent headaches, call your prescriber. Don’t stop felodipine suddenly—stopping can cause rebound high blood pressure.

If felodipine doesn’t suit you, similar options include amlodipine or nifedipine (other calcium channel blockers) and drugs from other classes like ACE inhibitors or ARBs. The best choice depends on your health history and other meds. Pregnant or breastfeeding? Talk to your clinician—some blood pressure medicines are safer than others during pregnancy.

Quick takeaway: felodipine is an effective, once-daily option for high blood pressure, but watch for ankle swelling and avoid grapefruit. Measure your blood pressure, report worrying symptoms, and keep your prescriber informed about other drugs you take.