Amlodipine
Variant Angina Pectoris, Hypertension ... show more
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DRUG STATUS
Approvals
US(FDA), UK(BNF)
Essential Medicine
YES
Teratogenicity
Unlisted
Pharmaceutical Class
Calcium Channel Blocker, Dihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blocker
Amlodipine
Know More About This Medicine -
Click HereSummary
Amlodipine is primarily used to treat high blood pressure, also known as hypertension, and to prevent chest pain or angina. It may also be prescribed for other heart-related conditions.
Amlodipine is a type of medicine known as a calcium channel blocker. It works by relaxing the blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood. This helps lower blood pressure and reduce chest pain.
The recommended starting dose for adults is 5 mg once daily, with a maximum of 10 mg daily. Elderly patients or those with liver problems may start with a lower dose of 2.5 mg once daily. For children aged 6 to 17 years, the effective dose is 2.5-5 mg once daily.
Common side effects may include headache, dizziness, and swelling in the ankles. Other side effects can include drowsiness, stomach upset, and mood changes.
People with severe low blood pressure, certain heart conditions like severe aortic stenosis, or those with a history of allergic reactions to Amlodipine should avoid it. It's also important to avoid grapefruit juice while taking amlodipine, as it can affect how the medication works.
Indications and Purpose
What is Amlodipine used for?
Amlodipine is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to prevent chest pain (angina). It may also be prescribed for other heart-related conditions
How does Amlodipine work?
Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing the blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood and lowering blood pressure
Is Amlodipine effective?
Yes, Amlodipine is generally effective for lowering blood pressure and preventing angina. It is considered a standard treatment for these conditions.
How does one know if Amlodipine is working?
You can gauge its effectiveness by monitoring your blood pressure regularly. If you are taking it for angina, it should help reduce chest pain. Your doctor may also assess your progress through check-ups.
Directions for Use
What is the usual dose of Amlodipine?
The recommended starting dose of this drug for adults is 5 mg once daily, with a maximum of 10 mg daily. Elderly patients or those with liver problems may start with a lower dose of 2.5 mg once daily. For children aged 6 to 17 years, the effective dose is 2.5-5 mg once daily. Doses above 5 mg daily have not been studied in children.
How do I take Amlodipine?
Amlodipine is usually taken once a day, with or without food. It is important to follow your healthcare provider's instructions on dosage and timing
For how long do I take Amlodipine?
Amlodipine is typically taken long-term for chronic conditions like high blood pressure or angina. The duration depends on your doctor's recommendation, as it may be required for as long as you have these conditions.
How long does it take for Amlodipine to start working?
Amlodipine may start lowering blood pressure within 6 to 12 hours of taking it, with its full effects becoming apparent after about 2 to 4 weeks of continuous use.
How should I store Amlodipine?
Store the medication at room temperature between 68° to 77°F (20° to 25°C). It can briefly be stored between 59° to 86°F (15° to 30°C) if needed.
Warnings and Precautions
Who should avoid taking Amlodipine?
People with severe low blood pressure (hypotension), certain heart conditions like severe aortic stenosis, or those with a history of allergic reactions to Amlodipine should avoid it. Always consult your doctor before starting it
Can I take Amlodipine with other prescription drugs?
**Amlodipine interactions:** * **CYP3A inhibitors (moderate and strong):** Increase amlodipine levels in the body. Lower amlodipine dose may be needed. Watch for low blood pressure and swelling. * **CYP3A inducers:** No known effects on amlodipine. Monitor blood pressure closely. * **Simvastatin:** Increases simvastatin levels in the body. Limit simvastatin dose to 20 mg daily. * **Cyclosporine or tacrolimus:** Increases these drugs' levels in the body. Monitor blood levels and adjust doses as needed.
Can I take Amlodipine with vitamins or supplements?
Amlodipine generally doesn't have significant interactions with vitamins or supplements. However, it’s always best to check with your healthcare provider before adding any new supplements to your regimen
Can Amlodipine be taken safely while pregnant?
Amlodipine should only be used during pregnancy if absolutely necessary, and it should be discussed with your healthcare provider. It is not generally recommended for use during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester.
Can Amlodipine be taken safely while breastfeeding?
Amlodipine is a medicine that passes into breast milk in small amounts. It's not known to cause side effects in breastfed babies, and there's no evidence that it affects milk production.
Is Amlodipine safe for the elderly?
Older adults often need a lower starting dose of amlodipine because their bodies don't process the medicine as quickly as younger people's. This is because their liver, kidneys, and heart might not work as well, and they may be taking other medications. A lower dose helps prevent the medicine from building up to dangerous levels in their system.
Is it safe to exercise while taking Amlodipine?
Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker, a type of medication used to treat high blood pressure and angina (chest pain). It works by relaxing the blood vessels, making it easier for blood to flow through them. In studies, amlodipine has been shown to increase exercise time in people with angina. This is because it improves blood flow to the heart, which allows the heart to work more efficiently. In one study, people who took a 10 mg dose of amlodipine increased their symptom-limited exercise time by an average of 12.8% (63 seconds). This means they were able to exercise for 63 seconds longer before experiencing symptoms of angina, such as chest pain or shortness of breath.
Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Amlodipine?
Most people tolerate Amlodipine well and occasional alcoholic drinks should not affect the way this medicine works. However, everybody can respond differently to medicines. Always track any changes you notice and let your doctor know when new symptoms are concerning - this will help make sure Amlodipine is right for you.
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