Felogard 2.5 mg Tablet ER

Felogard 2.5 mg Tablet ER is an extended-release tablet that contains 2.5 mg of felodipine in each tablet. Felodipine belongs to a class of medicines called calcium channel blockers, which are commonly used to help lower blood pressure. Felogard 2.5 mg Tablet ER may also be used in some people with angina (chest pain) when prescribed by a clinician. This lower-strength tablet is intended for patients whose doctor wants a smaller starting amount or a more cautious dose adjustment.

How it works: Felodipine relaxes and widens blood vessels so blood can flow more easily, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart's workload. As an extended-release tablet, Felogard 2.5 mg Tablet ER releases the medicine gradually over time rather than all at once.

Felogard 2.5 mg Tablet ER is the lowest strength in this brand range, with 5 mg and 10 mg tablets available as higher strengths. Because it is the gentlest option here, a doctor may choose Felogard 2.5 mg Tablet ER for people who need a careful start, are sensitive to blood-pressure medicines, or are being titrated slowly. Even though it is the lowest strength, it is still an extended-release prescription tablet and should be used only as directed.

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Angina (chest pain)
• Blood pressure control as part of a treatment plan
• May help reduce strain on the heart

• Swallow Felogard 2.5 mg Tablet ER whole with water; do not crush, chew, or split it.
• Take it at the same time each day to help keep blood levels steady.
• You may take it with or without food, but avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice unless your prescriber says it is okay.
• Because this is an extended-release tablet, do not try to make it work faster by breaking it open.
• Follow your doctor's instructions exactly; do not change the dose on your own.
• If you miss a dose, take it when you remember unless it is almost time for the next dose; do not double up.

Each Felogard 2.5 mg Tablet ER provides 2.5 mg of felodipine. Depending on your blood pressure response and your doctor's plan, it may be taken once daily; the maximum daily dose depends on the individual prescription and clinical response, so your prescriber decides what is appropriate for you. Do not assume 2.5 mg is the usual dose for everyone, because this lower-strength tablet is often chosen for cautious dosing and gradual adjustment.

Do not change your dose or stop the medicine without speaking to your doctor.

Common side effects of Felodipine may include:

• Swelling of the ankles or feet
• Headache
• Flushing or warmth
• Dizziness
• Fatigue
• Nausea
• Palpitations or a fast heartbeat

• Felogard 2.5 mg Tablet ER can cause dizziness, especially when you first start it or when the dose is adjusted.
• Be careful when standing up quickly because blood pressure may drop.
• Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice unless your prescriber says otherwise, because they can raise felodipine levels.
• Tell your doctor if you have heart failure, liver disease, or a history of very low blood pressure.
• Use caution with alcohol, which can increase lightheadedness.
• If you have chest pain, do not use this medicine to treat sudden angina attacks; seek urgent care if symptoms are severe or changing.
• Let your clinician know about all medicines you take, especially other blood-pressure drugs.

• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice
• Other blood pressure medicines, including diuretics and beta-blockers
• Certain antifungals and antibiotics that affect drug metabolism
• Rifampin and other strong enzyme inducers
• Nitrates or other medicines that may further lower blood pressure

Store Felogard 2.5 mg Tablet ER in its original strip or box at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and direct light.