Amlodipine is utilized, with or without other medications, to manage high blood pressure. This action aids in the prevention of strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems by lowering high blood pressure.
Classified as a calcium channel blocker, amlodipine operates by relaxing blood vessels, thereby facilitating smoother blood flow.
Additionally, amlodipine is prescribed to prevent certain types of chest pain known as angina. It may enhance your capacity for physical activity and reduce the frequency of angina attacks. However, it should not be employed to treat chest pain attacks as they occur. Other medications, such as sublingual nitroglycerin, should be used to alleviate chest pain attacks as directed by your doctor.
Dosage and administration
Before starting amlodipine, read the Patient Information Leaflet provided by your pharmacist. If you have any questions, consult your doctor or pharmacist.
Take this medication orally with or without food as directed by your doctor, typically once daily.
If you are using the liquid form of this medication, refer to the manufacturer’s information or ask your pharmacist for specific instructions. Some brands of the liquid form may require shaking before use, while others may not. Use a special measuring device/spoon to carefully measure the dose. Do not use a household spoon as it may result in an incorrect dose.
The dosage is determined based on your medical condition and response to treatment. Your doctor may gradually increase your dose. Adhere to your doctor’s instructions meticulously.
Utilize this medication regularly to derive the maximum benefit. Take it at the same time each day to help remember. Even if you feel well, continue taking this medication. Most individuals with high blood pressure do not experience symptoms.
If amlodipine is used for angina, it must be taken regularly to be effective. It should not be used to manage angina when it occurs. As directed by your doctor, use other medications (such as sublingual nitroglycerin) to alleviate an angina attack. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for further information.
Inform your doctor if your condition does not improve or worsen (e.g., if your blood pressure readings remain high or increase, or if chest pain persists or worsens).
Side effects
Dizziness, lightheadedness, swelling of the ankles or feet, or flushing may occur while taking this medication. If any of these effects persist or worsen, notify your doctor or pharmacist promptly.
To reduce the risk of dizziness and lightheadedness, rise slowly when transitioning from a sitting or lying position.
It’s important to remember that this medication has been prescribed to you because your doctor has determined that the benefits outweigh the risks of potential side effects. Many individuals using this medication do not experience serious side effects.
Notify your doctor immediately if you encounter any serious side effects, including fast, irregular, or pounding heartbeat, or fainting.
Although this medication effectively prevents chest pain (angina), individuals with severe heart disease may rarely experience worsening chest pain or a heart attack after initiating this medication or increasing the dose. Seek medical help promptly if you experience worsening chest pain or symptoms of a heart attack, such as chest, jaw, or left arm pain, shortness of breath, or unusual sweating.
While severe allergic reactions to this drug are rare, seek medical assistance immediately if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction, including rash, itching or swelling (especially of the face, tongue, or throat), severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
This list does not encompass all possible side effects. If you notice any other effects not mentioned above, contact your doctor or pharmacist.
Precautions
Prior to taking amlodipine, inform your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it or to other dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers (such as nisoldipine or nifedipine), or if you have any other allergies. The product’s inactive ingredients may trigger allergic reactions or other complications. Discuss this with your pharmacist for further details.
Before using this medication, disclose your medical history to your doctor or pharmacist, especially if you have a certain structural heart problem (aortic stenosis), very low blood pressure, or liver disease.
Amlodipine may cause dizziness. Alcohol or marijuana (cannabis) can exacerbate this dizziness. Avoid driving, operating machinery, or engaging in activities requiring alertness until you can do so safely. Limit alcoholic beverages, and discuss marijuana (cannabis) use with your doctor.
Prior to undergoing surgery, ensure your doctor or dentist is aware of all the products you use, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and herbal supplements.
Older adults may be more sensitive to the effects of this drug, particularly dizziness.
This medication should be used only when clearly needed during pregnancy. Discuss the risks and benefits with your doctor.
This drug passes into breast milk. Consult your doctor before breastfeeding.
Additional information
Brand Name:
Norvasc
Scientific Name:
Amlodipine
Other Names:
Amdepin, Amlodipine, Amlogard, Norvasc
Strength(s):
2.5mg, 5mg, 10mg
Quantities Available:
28, 30, 56, 84, 90
Formulation:
Tablet
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Norvasc
Amlodipine
