Felodipine is a medication known as a calcium channel blocking agent. It is used as an active ingredient to inhibit the influx of extracellular calcium ions into myocardial and vascular smooth muscle cells. This inhibition causes dilatation of the main coronary and systemic arteries and reduces myocardial contractility. It also inhibits the drug efflux pump P-glycoprotein which is used in some multi-drug resistant tumors and that improves the efficacy of antineoplastic agents.

Class of Drugs – Calcium channel blocker

Molecular Formula – C₁₈H₁₉Cl₂NO₄

Molecular Weight – 384.2 g/mol

Working: In the human body the element calcium plays vital role for muscle cells to contract. This given active component Felodipine prevents calcium from being released within the muscle cells of the small arteries. It acts this way so as to cause the muscles to relax and the arteries to dilate or expand. This dilation of arteries decreases the blood pressure. It shows no effect on the muscles of veins or the heart.

Uses: This mentioned drug belongs to a class of medicine called Calcium channel blocker.  Felodipine is used in the treatment of high blood pressure i.e. hypertension. It works by lowering of high blood pressure that helps prevent strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. Tis component acts by blocking calcium so as to relax and widen blood vessels so blood can flow more easily.

Popular Brands and Dosages: This calcium blocker agent is used in following popular brand medicines as main active ingredient.

• Plendil: 2.5 mg and 10 mg
• Norvasc:2.5 mg and 10 mg
• Nimotop:2.5 mg and 10 mg
• Procardia:2.5 mg and 10 mg

This medication is available in extended release tablet form. It should not be crushed or chewed before consumption. It can release all of the drug at once, increasing the risk of side effects.