Low or depleted magnesium levels are associated with a higher likelihood of several cardiovascular problems, including arrhythmias, where people with low magnesium have been shown to have 2–4 times higher odds of these rhythm disturbances compared with those with normal levels. Low magnesium is also linked to worsening coronary artery disease, progression of heart failure, and development or aggravation of hypertension, driven by disrupted cardiac electrical stability, vascular function, and electrolyte balance. Even mild magnesium depletion may contribute to higher blood pressure over time, adding to the overall cardiovascular burden, especially in individuals with existing heart disease or multiple risk factors. This medication is commonly used for Hypertension.
Kolte D, Vijayaraghavan K, Khera S, Sica DA, Frishman WH. Role of magnesium in cardiovascular diseases. Cardiol Rev. 2014 Jul-Aug;22(4):182-92. Vierling W, Liebscher DH, Micke O, von Ehrlich B, Kisters K. Magnesium deficiency and therapy in cardiac arrhythmias: recommendations of the German Society for Magnesium Research. Dtsch Med Wochenschr. 2013 May;138(22):1165-71. Houston M. The role of magnesium in hypertension and cardiovascular disease. J Clin Hypertens (Greenwich). 2011 Nov;13(11):843-7. Yin Y, Costello RB, Fonarow GC, Heidenreich PA, Morgan CJ, Faselis C, Cheng Y, Zullo AR, Liu S, Lam PH, Rosanoff A, Vargas JD, Gottlieb SS, Deedwania P, Moore HJ, Shao Y, Sheriff HM, Wu WC, Zeng-Treitler Q, Ahmed A. Oral magnesium and outcomes in US veterans with heart failure. Eur Heart J. 2026 Jan 5;47(1):80-90.
Some side effects may be linked to nutrient depletion caused by this medication.
Studies suggest that Felodipine, a type of calcium channel blocker (CCB), may increase the excretion of calcium in the urine. While the long-term effects on bone health are unclear, some healthcare professionals suggest calcium supplementation for patients taking felodipine, especially those at higher risk of osteoporosis.
Research suggests that Felodipine, a type of calcium channel blocker (CCB), may increase the excretion of magnesium in the urine. This can potentially lead to magnesium deficiency. Studies have shown an increase in fractional excretion of magnesium following felodipine treatment, and the drug may also alter how magnesium moves across red blood cell membranes. Therefore supplementation with magnesium should be considered when on this therapy.
An increased excretion of potassium can occur in people taking calcium channel blocker drugs like felodipine. Supplementation may need to be considered if blood levels of potassium are low.