Amlodipine

Josh M PharmD

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What is Amlodipine?

It is a medications known as a Calcium Channel Blocker. It relaxes smooth muscles and allows blood vessels around the heart to relax, allowing more blood flow.

Uses for Amlodipine

It is typically used to lower blood pressure and reduce angina (hearty pain) symptoms. Your Doctor may also use it to treat other conditions.

Dosage of Amlodipine

Amlodipine is available in 2.5 mg, 5 mg and 10 mg tablets. It is sold in the US under the brand name Norvasc®. Typical starting doses are 5 mg to 10mg once per day. The 2.5 mg dose is often used for older people, or people who are more sensitive to medications.

How to take Amlodipine

It is typically taken once per day. It is best to take it at the same time each day. It may be taken with or without food. Watch for dizziness and other potential side effects, especially when first starting the medication.

Side Effects of Amlodipine

Common: Swelling and fluid retention, drowsiness, dizziness, nausea, constipation, increased potassium, impotence, rapid heart beat, and flushing

Rare/Serious: Increased heart pain, heart attack, dropping blood pressure too low, serous rash, and liver problems.

Other side effects can and do occur.

Amlodipine and…

Alcohol – Avoidance is recommended, it may cause an unsafe drop in blood pressure.

Grapefruit –Shown to have some effect, but not enough to cause side effects in most people. See this study and this one.

Hair Loss – Not likely, reported in less than 1% of people who have used the medications

ED – Erectile Dysfunction could occur in 2% of people who use this, may also be related to current health status

Lisinopril – No major interaction between the two, may be used together to lower blood pressure.

Valsartan – No interaction with amlodipine, sometimes used together for high blood pressure.

Heart Rate – May cause increased heart rate, contact your Doctor is this occurs.

Benazepril – No significant interactions noted, may be used in conjunction to control hypertension

Losartan – Not a risk of major interaction, sometimes used together.

Weight Gain – Can occur, may be an indication of fluid retention. Contact your Doctor.

Always contact your Doctor or Pharmacist if you believe you are experiencing side effects with this or any medication.