Key takeaways
Felodipine ER (Plendil) and valsartan (Diovan) are both used to treat high blood pressure, but they belong to different medication classes and work in different ways. Felodipine ER is a calcium channel blocker (CCB) that relaxes blood vessels to lower blood pressure and is typically taken once daily. Valsartan is an angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) that blocks a hormone to prevent blood vessels from tightening and is taken once or twice daily. Felodipine ER is only available as a tablet, while valsartan comes in both tablet and liquid forms. Valsartan is also used to lower the risk of heart-related problems in people with heart failure or after a heart attack, which is not an indication for felodipine ER. Both medications can cause dizziness, but felodipine ER may also cause swelling and headaches, while valsartan can lead to high potassium levels and kidney problems. Neither medication is safe to use during pregnancy.
