The pharmacokinetics of amlodipine 5 mg and felodipine ER (extended release) 5 mg o.d. after single and 2 weeks of repeated oral doses, were compared in 28 essential hypertensive patients using a crossover design. As a secondary parameter the effects of the drugs on blood pressure were assessed. Significant differences were found between all principal pharmacokinetic variables, when comparing the 2 treatments after both single and repeated dosing. The coefficients of variation of maximal drug concentration and AUC after single dosing and at steady-state were significantly higher for felodipine ER than for amlodipine. After repeated dosing the peak-to-trough plasma concentration ratio were 1.58 and 4.43 (p < 0.001) for amlodipine and felodipine ER, respectively. Both drugs lowered systolic and diastolic blood pressure to the same extent after 2 weeks of repeated dosing. No significant differences between the blood pressure lowering vs time profile of the 2 drugs were encountered. In conclusion, the interpatient drug concentration variability and the peak-to-trough plasma concentration ratio were more favorable for amlodipine compared to felodipine ER. It remains to be established whether these characteristics are also reflected in a more smooth and consistent blood pressure control.