PLEASE NOTE: This treatment is not available through our online pharmacy service. This page is for information only. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms related to the condition(s) this medication treats, we strongly recommend that you see your GP in person.

Cardioplen XL

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  1. Click on the green "Back To Get Started" button, then click "Start Consultation" button on the next page.
  2. Fill in our short consultation form.
  3. Choose delivery method and mode of payment.
  4. Our team of expert prescribers will assess whether medication is suitable.
  5. If you get the green light and it is deemed suitable, your order will be processed quickly and efficiently.
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Delivery and Packing
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We deliver medications between Monday and Saturday. You can upgrade to Saturday delivery on Friday.

My Order Hasn’t Arrived What Should I Do?

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If you don’t have a credit or debit card you can pay via bank transfer. We will give you a unique reference number at checkout along with details of how to make the transfer. Once the money has cleared in our account, we will process your order.

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You can pay for your order using credit, debit card and bank transfer.

Card Payment: Please notify us that you wish to cancel your order. Your refund will show available In 1 - 3 days.

Bank Transfer: A member of our team will contact you requesting for your bank details. These details are only used to transfer the funds back into your account.

Treatment Information

Table of contents:

What Is Cardioplen XL?

Cardioplen XL is a calcium channel blocker used primarily to treat high blood pressure. It can also be used to treat angina as a long-term treatment which prevents attacks. Cardioplen XL is a prolonged-release tablet which slowly releases felodipine over the course of 24 hours.

Looking to get Cardioplen XL from a UK-based online pharmacy? With Prescription Doctor's private prescription service, you can safely and easily order Cardioplen XL online after completing a short online consultation with our doctor. If our doctor approves your order before 3 pm, our UK-based pharmacy will dispense and dispatch your treatment on the same day via a next-day, tracked courier service.


How Does Cardioplen XL Work?

Cardioplen XL reduces the amount of calcium that can move through the muscle cells of the blood vessel walls. Calcium causes blood vessels to constrict, reducing the blood flow and thus increasing the blood pressure.

Without the calcium, the muscle cells relax, widening the arteries and allowing greater blood flow. This, in turn, lowers blood pressure. It also means that more blood and oxygen can be pumped around the body, thereby increasing overall health and reducing pressure on the heart.


How Do I Take Cardioplen XL?

Cardioplen XL is prescribed in tablet form and should be taken once daily.

It is recommended to take Cardioplen XL in the morning. This medication should be taken whole with water, and should not be dissolved, chewed, or crushed.

Cardioplen XL can be taken on an empty stomach or with food; however, meals with a high fat content should be avoided, as this may reduce the absorption rate of the medication and affect its efficacy.

Do not drink or eat grapefruit whilst taking Cardioplen XL, as this can have detrimental effects.

If you are unsure about how to take Cardioplen XL, consult your doctor or ask your pharmacist for advice.


Side effects and cautions

All medicines carry potential risks, which should be discussed with your doctor before starting treatment. Before taking Cardioplen XL, it's essential to familiarise yourself with the information provided in the patient information leaflet (PIL) enclosed with your medicine's packaging. This leaflet should be retained for future reference.

You can view the patient information leaflet for Carioplen XL online here.

Who Should Not Take Cardioplen XL?

Most adults over the age of 18 can take Cardioplen XL. However, there may be situations in which this medication is not safe.

If any of the following apply to you, DO NOT take Cardioplen XL:

  • Anyone with an allergy to the ingredients of Cardioplen XL
  • Women trying to conceive, who are pregnant, or who are breastfeeding
  • Those suffering from heart failure or heart disease
  • Those who have had a heart attack within the last month
  • Anyone with liver issues

If you are unsure whether it is safe for you to take Cardioplen, speak to your doctor.

Who Should Consult a Doctor Before Using Cardioplen XL?

For some, although Cardioplen XL might be the right medication, their dosage may need to be monitored more frequently, and additional checks might have to be put in place. These include:

  • The elderly
  • Those with decreased liver function
  • Anyone who has a heart defect
  • Anyone with a history of heart failure or those with a weak heart – this is especially relevant to those who have suffered left ventricular failure.
  • Those whose heart rate is particularly fast (they suffer from tachycardia)
  • Anyone with a hereditary blood disorder (porphyrias)

If any of the following apply to you, consult your doctor in person to determine if it is safe for you to take Cardioplen XL.

Cardioplen XL And Other Medications

When speaking to your doctor, you must tell them about any other medications you are taking, including herbal medicines. In this way, they will be able to determine whether Cardioplen XL is a safe medication to prescribe. It would be unwise to take Cardioplen XL with other medication that lowers blood pressure, for example, since this could lower your blood pressure to an unsafe level.

Other medications that may have an adverse effect when taken in conjunction with Cardioplen XL include:

  • Medication for epilepsy
  • Some antibiotics (rifampicin, clarithromycin, and erythromycin)
  • Itraconazole
  • St John's wort
  • HIV and hepatitis C medications
  • Medication used to reduce immune reactions (tacrolimus and ciclosporin, for example)

During your online consultation, it's important to inform our online prescriber of all the medications you are currently taking, including those prescribed by your GP or bought over-the-counter from pharmacies, as well as any health or herbal supplements you may be taking.

Side effects of Cardioplen XL

Like all medicines, Cardioplen XL carries the risk of side effects, though not everybody who takes Cardioplen XL will experience them. It's essential to remain vigilant for side effects associated with your medicine and to report any side effects to your doctor, should you experience them.

Very common side effects (may affect more than 1 in 10 people):

  • Swelling of the ankles

Common side effects (may affect up to 1 in 10 people):

  • Flushing
  • Headache

Uncommon side effects (may affect up to 1 in 100 people):

  • Abdominal pain
  • Abnormally rapid heart rate
  • Burning/prickling/numbness
  • Dizziness
  • Fatigue
  • Low blood pressure
  • Nausea
  • Palpitations
  • Rash or itching

This is not an exhaustive list of side effects. Further information regarding the safety of Cardioplen XL, including a full list of side effects, can be found within the patient information leaflet enclosed within the packaging of your medicine.

If you experience any side effects, whether listed above or in the patient information leaflet, please report them to your doctor or ask a pharmacist for advice.

Allergic reactions

Do not take Carioplen XL if you are allergic to felodipine or any of the other ingredients listed in the leaflet enclosed with your medicine.

Carioplen XL contains lactose. Speak to your doctor before taking Cardioplen XL if your doctor has told you that you are sensitive to some sugars.

If you experience an allergic reaction after taking Cardioplen XL, stop taking the medicine and go directly to the nearest accident and emergency department of a hospital.

Signs of an allergic reaction include:

  • Chest tightening
  • Dry, red and cracked skin
  • Itchy, red, watery eyes
  • Raised, itchy, red rash (hives)
  • Swelling of the lips, tongue, eyes or face
  • Tummy pain, nausea, vomiting or diarrhoea
  • Wheezing

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Do not take Carioplen XL if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant, trying for a baby or breastfeeding.

If you become pregnant while taking Cardioplen XL, inform your doctor.

Your doctor may recommend an alternative blood pressure-lowering medication for you.

Other safety information

Always seek advice from your doctor before you buy Cardioplen XL online from Prescription Doctor.

Do not take Cardioplen XL past the expiry date printed on the packaging. The date refers to the last day of the specified month.

Never throw away medicine via household or water waste. Take any unwanted or expired medicine to your local pharmacy and ask them to dispose of it safely on your behalf.

Always store medicine out of sight and out of reach of children and pets.

Never share your medicine with anybody else, even if they are experiencing the same symptoms as you.


Getting the most out of treatment

Taking Cardioplen XL isn't the only thing you can do to manage your high blood pressure. There are several lifestyle changes you can make to manage your condition and lead a healthier life.

Diet is the cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. Ensure you eat a balanced diet that is low in saturated fats and sugar. Aim to eat 5 portions of fruit and vegetables per day and avoid consuming more than 6 grams of sugar per day.

Avoid or limit your alcohol consumption. Consistently excessive alcohol consumption can raise your blood pressure over time. You should avoid drinking more than 14 units of alcohol per week.

Limit or cut out caffeine, which is found in tea, coffee, cola, and energy drinks. Tea and coffee shouldn't be your only sources of fluid. You should drink plenty of water and low-sugar or sugar-free fruit juices.

Try to be active during the day; even small amounts of activity can be beneficial. Walking more is a simple and effective way to increase your physical activity. If you travel by bus, get off 1 stop before your usual stop and walk the rest of the way. If you drive, try parking your car farther away from the destination and walking there. Taking the stairs instead of the lift or escalator can also help. Over time, you can gradually build up your exercise routine, such as walking further distances or transitioning to a jog or run.

Stopping smoking can reduce your risk of complications associated with high blood pressure, such as a heart attack or stroke.

Obesity causes your heart to work harder to pump blood throughout your body, thereby increasing your blood pressure. Losing weight can help lower your blood pressure and live a healthier lifestyle.

Speak to your doctor about steps you can take to manage your high blood pressure. Your doctor will be able to offer personalised advice tailored to your specific health needs. They may also be able to provide you with an action plan, which you can follow to manage and monitor your high blood pressure.


Frequently asked questions

What should I do if I forget to take Cardioplen XL when I should?

If you forget to take Cardioplen XL at the scheduled time, take it as soon as you remember. Do not take it, however, if it is almost time for your next dose. If this is the case, wait and take just one dose – never double-dose, as this is dangerous.

What should I do if I take too much Cardioplen XL?

If you take too much Cardioplen XL, please speak to your doctor or go to the hospital immediately. Do not drive to the hospital as an overdose of Cardioplen XL can cause dizziness and sleepiness. If there is no one to take you to the hospital, you should call an ambulance. Take the packaging and leaflet with you, as well as any remaining medication.

Can I drink alcohol while taking Cardioplen XL?

You can drink alcohol while taking Carioplen XL. However, if you experience any dizziness, light-headedness, sleepiness, or any other side effects, stop drinking alcohol with this medication. Speak to your doctor if you are concerned.

Will Cardioplen XL impact my ability to drive or operate machinery?

It is safe to take Cardioplen XL if you are driving or operating machinery, unless it makes you feel dizzy or sleepy; in this case, these activities should be avoided.

How long does Cardioplen XL (felodipine) take to work?

While the medicine starts working the same day you take it, it may take a few weeks for it to reach its peak effectiveness.

Will Cardioplen XL affect my contraception?

Cardioplen XL is unlikely to interact with contraceptives such as the combined contraceptive pill or the morning-after pill. However, your doctor advises against taking hormonal contraceptives if you have high blood pressure.

Does Felodipine cause weight gain?

Felodipine may cause peripheral oedema - a form of fluid retention which typically causes fluid to accumulate in the legs and ankles. If you notice a change in your weight or swelling in your legs, feet or ankles, inform your doctor straight away.


Where To Buy Cardioplen XL

You can buy Cardioplen XL online via our trusted online pharmacy. When you place your order for Cardioplen XL with Prescription Doctor, we require you to complete an online medical form, which allows our doctor to prescribe Cardioplen XL for you safely.


References

Chiesi Limited, 2017. Cardioplen XL 10 mg Prolonged Release Tablets: Summary of Product Characteristics

Treatment information

  • Product Name: Cardioplen XL
  • Manufacturer: Chiesi Ltd.
  • Active Ingredient(s): Felodipine
  • Administration: Oral
  • Presentation: Tablets
  • Available Strength: 2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg
  • Exemption: Prescription Only
  • Dosage: Take one tablet daily
  • Description: Cardioplen XL is a slow release tablet which is used to lower the blood pressure in adults with hypertension.
  • Drug Class: Calcium-channel blocker
  • Alcohol Consumption: Avoid or limit alcohol consumption while taking Cardioplen XL
  • When Pregnant: Do not take take Cardioplen XL if you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant or plan on starting a family. Speak to your doctor for further advice.
  • When Breastfeeding: Do not take Cardioplen XL if you are breastfeeding. Speak to your doctor for further advice.
  • https://www.prescriptiondoctor.com/storage/product_images_th/cardioplen-xl.jpg
Click here to view the Cardioplen XL - Patient Information Leaflet

Authored & Reviewed By

Adil Bhaloda

Adil Bhaloda

Pharmacist
Adil provides governance for the online services, overseeing prescription dispensation in line with UK pharmacy standards.

Published on: 23/02/2021 Reviewed on: 13/03/2024

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