The recommended dose of Plendil for treatment of high blood pressure in adults is 5 to 10 mg once a day, while for angina (chest pain), it is 10 mg once a day. For children, dose should be determined by the consulting physician.

Patients with liver disease or another disease of the heart or blood vessels such as sick sinus syndrome, aortic stenosis, heart failure, low blood pressure, or coronary artery disease should inform their doctor before starting on Plendil as these conditions may require special monitoring or dosage adjustment. While on Plendil, brush and floss your teeth regularly as directed by your dentist since the medication may rarely lead to swelling of gums and proper oral hygiene may alleviate these symptoms. Grapefruit and grapefruit juice may interact with Plendil and lead to potentially dangerous effects. Do not use grapefruit or its juice without first taking to your doctor. Strictly follow any dietary or exercise recommendations made by your doctor. Plendil may cause dizziness in certain patients, especially while standing or sitting up from a lying position. This can happen more when waking up at night. It is advisable to be cautious when changing positions while on treatment with this medication. Avoid excessive alcohol since it may further lower blood pressure and increase the drowsiness or dizziness caused by Plendil.

As with all other medications, Plendil also has its side effects which may or may not include any or all of the following: unusually fast or slow heartbeat, chest pain, severe dizziness, fainting, abnormal behavior or psychosis, jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), swelling of the legs, ankles, or face, fatigue or tiredness, headache, insomnia or difficulty sleeping, swelling of gums, nausea, diarrhea, increased or difficult urination, muscle or joint discomfort, and/or flushing (redness). These side effects are more likely to occur if the patients is above 65 years of age. It is advisable to seek immediate medical help if any of the above side effects were to become aggravated or cause undue discomfort.

Each dose should be taken with a full glass of water, consistently either without food or with a light meal. The tablets should be swallowed whole and should not be crushed, chewed, or broken.