Felodipine vs Amlodipine
Felodipine
Drug Class
Calcium Channel Blocker (Dihydropyridine)
Calcium Channel Blocker (Dihydropyridine)
Mechanism of Action
Inhibits calcium influx into vascular smooth muscle cells, causing vasodilation and reduced blood pressure
Inhibits calcium influx into vascular smooth muscle and myocardium, leading to vasodilation and lower blood pressure
Primary Uses
- Hypertension - Stable angina
- Hypertension - Stable angina - Variant angina
Dosage Forms
Extended-release tablets
Tablets
Usual Starting Dose
5 mg once daily
5 mg once daily
Max Dose
10 mg once daily
10 mg once daily
Half-life
~11–16 hours
~30–50 hours
Onset of Action
Within 2–5 hours
Within 6–12 hours
Duration of Action
24 hours
>24 hours
Metabolism
Liver (CYP3A4)
Liver (CYP3A4)
Excretion
Mainly via urine and feces
Mainly via urine
Common Side Effects
- Headache - Flushing - Dizziness - Swelling (peripheral edema)
- Headache - Fatigue - Dizziness - Peripheral edema
Serious Side Effects
- Hypotension - Tachycardia - Gingival hyperplasia
- Hypotension - Arrhythmias - Gingival hyperplasia
Drug Interactions
- CYP3A4 inhibitors/inducers - Beta-blockers - Grapefruit juice
- CYP3A4 inhibitors/inducers - Simvastatin - Grapefruit juice
Food Interactions
Grapefruit juice increases blood levels
Grapefruit juice increases blood levels
Key Differences
Shorter half-life, fewer indications, less commonly used
Longer half-life, more indications, widely prescribed
Coupon
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the main difference between Felodipine and Amlodipine?
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Amlodipine lasts longer and treats more conditions like variant angina. Felodipine mainly targets hypertension and stable angina.
Which one is more effective for high blood pressure?
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Both are effective, but Amlodipine is preferred due to its longer action and once-daily dosing.
Can I take grapefruit juice with Felodipine or Amlodipine?
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No, grapefruit juice can raise blood levels of both drugs, increasing the risk of side effects.
Do Felodipine and Amlodipine need a prescription?
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Yes, both are prescription-only medications.
