Cardioplen XL

Cardioplen XL is a calcium channel blocker. Calcium channel blockers are a group of heart and blood pressure medications that reduce the blood pressure and alleviate the strain on the heart.

Cardioplen XL works by blocking the amount of calcium that enters the heart muscle and walls of the blood vessels. This helps both the blood vessels and the heart relax, lowering the blood pressure and providing more oxygen to the heart. The heart does not have to work as hard, reducing the risk of chest pain caused by angina.

Lowering the blood pressure also helps to reduce the risk of heart attacks and strokes in future.

Cardioplen XL is a sustained release preparation that works within the body all day. This makes it a convenient medication that only needs to be taken once a day.

Cardioplen XL should be taken with half a glass of water. The tablet should be swallowed whole in the morning before or after breakfast. It must not be crushed or chewed as this will stop it from releasing slowly into the body.

Dosage of Cardioplen XL

When treating high blood pressure, the usual starting dose of Cardioplen XL is 5mg once a day. Most people require 5-10mg daily but if this does not effectively manage the blood pressure, the dose can be increased, or another blood pressure medication added.

When Cardioplen XL is taken to treat angina, the usual starting dose is 5mg once a day. This can be increased to 10mg once a day if your healthcare professional feels that your angina is not adequately controlled.

Like all medications, Cardioplen XL can have some side effects. The most common side effects include:

Rarely, some people experience worsening of their chest pain when starting Cardioplen XL. If this occurs, you should speak to your doctor straight away.

If you have a severe allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) including breathlessness, lip or tongue swelling, call 999 immediately.

Cardioplen XL may not be suitable for everyone. You should tell your doctor if you:

Cardioplen XL is not suitable for use in pregnancy.

You may need to stop taking Cardioplen XL before having a general anaesthetic. You must not drink grapefruit juice or eat grapefruit whilst taking Cardioplen XL, as this can increase the amount of the medication within your bloodstream.

Because Cardioplen XL may not suit everyone, we will complete a Consultation with you including a health questionnaire. This will ensure that the medication will be suitable for you.

A qualified prescriber will review your current medications, including any herbal remedies or supplements, to ensure that Cardioplen XL will not interact with them.

Once prescribed, Cardioplen XL will be ordered on your behalf via electronic prescription, allowing you to pick the medication up at your convenience.