Abstract

Absorption of felodipine is rapid and complete. A pronounced first-pass metabolism results in a bioavailability of 15%, irrespective of the oral formulation used. The peak plasma concentrations and area under the plasma concentration-time curve are linearly related to the dose. The variability in plasma concentrations is wide, and individualization of the dosage is recommended. Plasma felodipine concentrations are increased in the elderly, and in patients with congestive heart failure or liver cirrhosis; in these patients felodipine should be started at a low dosage. Food intake has no clinically significant effect on felodipine absorption. Serum digoxin concentrations are increased by felodipine in plain tablet form, but not when it is administered as extended release tablets. Activators, inducers and inhibitors of the cytochrome P450 system affect the plasma concentrations of felodipine. No displacement reactions with high affinity protein binding drugs have been observed. There is a significant correlation between plasma concentration and haemodynamic effect. The mean elimination half-life of 24h together with the extended release formulation of felodipine favours once-daily dosage in patients with hypertension.