Amlodipine is a long-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker commonly prescribed for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and angina pectoris (chest pain). It works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle, leading to vasodilation, which lowers peripheral resistance and decreases blood pressure.
Clinical studies have shown that amlodipine effectively reduces systolic and diastolic blood pressure in a significant number of patients, offering a smooth and sustained antihypertensive effect. It has been demonstrated to lower blood pressure consistently over 24 hours, which helps minimize the risk of cardiovascular events such as heart attacks and strokes.
In addition to its efficacy in managing hypertension, amlodipine is also beneficial for patients with stable angina, as it helps reduce the frequency and severity of anginal episodes by decreasing myocardial oxygen demand. The medication is often used in combination with other antihypertensive agents for more comprehensive control of blood pressure.
While amlodipine is generally well tolerated, some common side effects may include peripheral edema (swelling of the legs and ankles), flushing, palpitations, and dizziness. Serious side effects are rare but can include hypotension, tachycardia, or allergic reactions.
Regular follow-up appointments are essential for monitoring blood pressure, assessing side effects, and making dosage adjustments as needed. Overall, amlodipine is an effective option for the management of hypertension and angina, contributing to improved cardiovascular health and quality of life for patients.
Amlodipine is commonly prescribed for the treatment of hypertension and angina. The usual starting dosage for adults is typically 5 mg taken orally once daily. Depending on individual blood pressure response and tolerability, the dose may be increased to a maximum of 10 mg per day.
If you miss a dose of amlodipine and remember it within 12 hours of your scheduled time, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next scheduled dose, you should skip the missed dose and return to your regular dosing schedule; do not take two doses at once to make up for the missed one.
To maintain consistent therapeutic effects, it is important to take amlodipine at the same time each day. Regular follow-up with your healthcare provider is essential to monitor your blood pressure and overall treatment efficacy. If you have any concerns regarding missed doses or dosage adjustments, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice. Following these
guidelines will help ensure effective management of your condition with amlodipine.
Always use this medication exactly as your clinician has told you. Check with our clinical team or your GP or pharmacist if you are not sure.
Medicines and their possible side effects can affect individual people in different ways. The following are some of the side effects that are known to be associated with this medicine. Just because a side effect is stated here, it does not mean that all people using this medicine will experience that or any side effect.
Here’s a breakdown of the side effects associated with amlodipine, categorized into common, less common, rare, and important considerations:
Common Side Effects
1. Peripheral Edema: Swelling in the legs, ankles, and feet due to fluid retention.
2. Flushing: A feeling of warmth or redness, particularly in the face.
3. Dizziness/Lightheadedness: Especially upon standing quickly, leading to potential orthostatic hypotension.
4. Headache: Frequent headaches may occur as the body adjusts to the medication.
5. Fatigue: General tiredness or lack of energy.
Less Common Side Effects
1. Palpitations: The sensation of a rapid or irregular heartbeat (tachycardia).
2. Gastrointestinal Issues: Symptoms may include nausea, abdominal pain, and constipation.
3. Sleep Disturbances: Potential for insomnia or vivid dreams affecting sleep quality.
4. Skin Reactions: Rash or pruritus (itchiness) may occur.
Rare Side Effects
1. Hypotension: Abnormally low blood pressure, which can lead to fainting or severe dizziness.
2. Angioedema: Swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, which may cause difficulty
breathing or swallowing.
3. Hepatic Effects: Elevations in liver enzymes that require monitoring, indicating possible liver dysfunction.
4. Exacerbation of Heart Failure: New-onset heart failure symptoms in patients with pre-existing cardiac conditions or severe aortic stenosis.
Important Considerations
1. Regular Monitoring: Patients should have their blood pressure, heart rate, and any potential side effects monitored regularly.
2. Consultation on Other Medications: Inform healthcare providers about all other medications being taken to avoid drug interactions that could elevate the risk of side effects.
3. Caution in Certain Conditions: Use amlodipine cautiously in individuals with severe aortic stenosis or those with existing heart failure, as it may worsen these conditions.
Always use this medication exactly as your clinician has told you. Check with our clinical team or your GP or pharmacist if you are not sure.
For full information on side effects and correct use, see the patient information leaflet. If any side effects concern you, or you are experiencing any of the side effects mentioned in the patient information leaflet whilst taking this medication, please contact our clinical team or speak to your GP.
Cautions
1. Cardiovascular Conditions: Amlodipine should be used with caution in patients with severe aortic stenosis, as it can lead to a significant reduction in blood pressure, and in patients with heart failure, as it may exacerbate symptoms.
2. Liver Impairment: Caution is advised in patients with hepatic impairment, as amlodipine is primarily metabolized by the liver. Dosage adjustments may be necessary for these individuals to avoid potential accumulation and side effects.
3. Hypotension: Patients with hypotension or those who are volume-depleted (such as those on diuretics) should be monitored closely, as amlodipine can further lower blood pressure.
4. Heart Failure: Amlodipine may be used in patients with stable heart failure, but caution should be exercised, and it should not be the first-line therapy in acute heart failure situations.
5. Elderly Population: Older adults may be more sensitive to the blood pressure-lowering effects of amlodipine, requiring careful monitoring and possible dosage adjustments.
6. Hypersensitivity Reactions: Patients with a history of hypersensitivity should be monitored closely, as rare allergic reactions can occur.
Warnings
1. Pregnancy and Lactation: Amlodipine is classified as a pregnancy category C medication, which means that there are no well-controlled studies in pregnant women, and it should be used during pregnancy only if the benefits clearly outweigh the risks. Patients should consult their healthcare provider if they are pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or breastfeeding.
2. Overdose: Overdosing on amlodipine can lead to severe hypotension and potentially life-threatening complications. In case of overdose, immediate medical attention is necessary.
3. Warning Against Abrupt Discontinuation: While not as severe as with beta-blockers, abrupt discontinuation of amlodipine may lead to rebound effects on blood pressure and cardiac function. Gradual dose adjustment is recommended if discontinuing therapy
4. Potential for Peripheral Edema: One common side effect of amlodipine is peripheral edema (swelling of the legs and ankles), which may require monitoring and management, especially in patients with heart failure.
5. Drug Interactions: Amlodipine may interact with other medications, such as strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole), and those that can affect blood pressure, requiring careful monitoring and possible dosage adjustments.
Get emergency medical help if you have signs of an allergic reaction to this medication. These include:
- Hives
- Dizziness
- Fast or pounding heartbeats
- Wheezing
- Difficult breathing
- Swelling of your face, lips, tongue, or throat.
It is important that you let us know which prescription, over-the-counter medicines and recreational drugs you are currently taking. You must also tell us about any other medical conditions that you currently have (or had in the past). This will help us ensure the prescribed medication is safe and appropriate for you to take.
For full information on warnings, medication interactions and contraindications, refer to the Patient Information Leaflet. Please read all packaging and the Patient Information Leaflet before taking any new medicine and inform our clinical team or your GP of medicines you are taking or intend to take.
