Amlodipine is a medication used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain. It is in a class of medications called calcium channel blockers (CCBs). CCBs work by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can flow more easily. Amlodipine is also used to treat coronary artery disease and angina pectoris (chest pain).
Amlodipine may cause side effects. Tell your doctor if any of these symptoms are severe or do not go away:
dizziness
fatigue
headache
flushing (feeling of warmth)
nausea
swelling of ankles feet or legs
If you experience any of the following symptoms call your doctor immediately:
rash
hives
difficulty breathing
swelling of the face throat tongue or lips
wheezing
Amlodipine may cause the heart to beat more slowly. This is usually not a problem but may cause dizziness or fatigue. If you experience these symptoms call your doctor.
Amlodipine may also cause low blood pressure. This is most likely to occur when you first start taking the medication or if you increase your dose. If you experience any of the following symptoms call your doctor immediately:
dizziness
lightheadedness
fainting
Amlodipine may interact with other medications. Tell your doctor all prescription and over-the-counter medications and supplements you take. Amlodipine should be taken exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Do not take more or less of this medication or take it more often than prescribed. Your doctor will probably start you on a low dose of amlodipine and gradually increase your dose.
Amlodipine can be taken with or without food.
If you miss a dose of amlodipine take it as soon as possible. If it is almost time for your next dose skip the missed dose and go back to your regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses of amlodipine at the same time.
Store amlodipine at room temperature away from light and moisture.
What is the recommended starting dose of amlodipine for most adults?
The recommended starting dose of amlodipine is 5 mg per day.
How does amlodipine work?
Amlodipine works by relaxing the blood vessels and lowering blood pressure.
What are the most common side effects of amlodipine?
The most common side effects of amlodipine are headache dizziness and fatigue.
Is amlodipine a blood thinner?
No amlodipine is not a blood thinner.
What are the possible side effects of amlodipine?
The possible side effects of amlodipine are low blood pressure fast heart rate and heart failure.
What should I avoid while taking amlodipine?
You should avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while taking amlodipine.
What are the possible drug interactions with amlodipine?
The possible drug interactions with amlodipine are beta blockers calcium channel blockers and ACE inhibitors.
What are the warnings and precautions with amlodipine?
Some of the warnings and precautions with amlodipine include the possibility of low blood pressure fast heart rate and heart failure.
Is amlodipine a controlled substance?
No amlodipine is not a controlled substance.
How long does it take for amlodipine to work?
Amlodipine typically begins to work within 2 to 3 days.
How long does amlodipine stay in your system?
Amlodipine can stay in your system for up to 48 hours.
What is the half-life of amlodipine?
The half-life of amlodipine is 30 to 50 hours.
Is amlodipine a beta blocker?
No amlodipine is not a beta blocker.
Is amlodipine an ACE inhibitor?
No amlodipine is not an ACE inhibitor.
Does amlodipine cause slow heart rate?
Yes amlodipine can cause slow heart rate.
