Amlodipine Warnings, Dosage, Uses, Side Effects & Brand Names
Amlodipine is a prescription medication that works to affect the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. As such, it belongs to a group of medications known as calcium chain blockers. In the following article, we discuss the brand names, side effects, dosage, interactions and warnings of amlodipine. We also answer the question: how does amlodipine work?
Amlodipine Warnings
Taking amlodipine can cause a severe allergic reaction. Symptoms of this allergic reaction may include trouble breathing and hives.
If you develop symptoms of an allergic reaction to amlodipine, call your doctor or 9-11 immediately.
Why Is Amlodipine Banned In Canada?
Amlodipine is actually not banned in Canada. This is a common misconception spread by a study which found that calcium chain blockers similar to amlodipine were found to increase the risk of developing breast cancer.
How Does Amlodipine Work?
Amlodipine works by relaxing the blood vessels and lowering blood pressure. This works to increase blood supply to the heart and decrease its workload and stress.
Amlodipine Brand Names
Amlodipine is available as a generic drug and as the following brand name drugs:
- Norvasc
- Katarzia
What Is Amlodipine Used For?
Amlodipine can be used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and conditions affected by high blood pressure such as heart attack and stroke.
Take Amlodipine As Directed
Take amlodipine as directed by a healthcare professional. This medication should be taken once a day, around the same time each day. Swallow amlodipine tablets whole with a glass of water.
Why Take Amlodipine At Bedtime
Controlling your blood pressure overnight is important, as it helps lower overall risk for heart disease, strokes, and heart attacks. Taking amlodipine immediately before you go to sleep can help keep your blood pressure low throughout the night.
Amlodipine Dosage
Your dosage for amlodipine can vary and may depend on the following factors, among others:
- Your age
- Your weight
- Strength of dosage
- Severity of condition
Amlodipine Dosage For Chest Pain (Agina)
Adult: 5-10 mg once a day. Your doctor may adjust as needed. Dosage should not exceed 10mg per day in general.
Dosage For High Blood Pressure
Adult: At first, 5mg per day. Some patients, however, may need to start with 2.5mg per day of amlodipine. Dosage should not exceed 10mg per day.
Amlodipine Side Effects
Taking amlodipine can cause some potential side effects. Some side effects are more serious and less common than others.
Common Side Effects
Common side effects of amlodipine may include the following:
- Swelling of the hands, ankles or feet.
- Upset stomach
- Nausea
- Stomach pain
- Drowsiness
- Dizziness
- Headache
- Flushing
- Excessive tiredness
- Sore throat
If these side effects are mild, they may disappear within a few days. If side effects persist, talk to your doctor or another healthcare professional.
Serious Side Effects
Certain side effects of amlodipine are more serious. Call your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following serious side effects. Call 9-11 if you think your symptoms may be life-threatening.
- Severe chest pain
- Rapid, pounding heart beat
- Fainting
- Chest tightness
- Difficulty breathing
- Cold sweats
- Black, tarry stools
- Extra heartbeats
- Large, hive-like swelling on the face
- Painful or difficult urination
- Red, irritated eyes
- Shaking in the arms or legs
Disclaimer: At Manifest Pharmacy our goal is to provide you with the most relevant and current information. Unfortunately, because drugs affect each individual differently, we cannot guarantee that this information includes all possible side effects.
Interactions Of Amlodipine
Amlodipine may potentially interact with the following medications:
Simvastatin: It is recommended that you limit your dosage of simvastatin while taking amlodipine. Failing to do so can cause unwanted side effects.
Cyclosporine: If you have had a kidney transplant, it is strongly recommended that you do not take cyclosporine at the same time as amlodipine.
CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Medications that inhibit the effects of an enzyme called CYP3A4 can increase the concentration of amlodipine in the blood. Talk to your doctor if you are currently taking a CYP3A4 inhibitor and are considering taking amlodipine.
Amlodipine Warnings, Dosage, Uses, Interactions & Brand Names Summary
Amlodipine is a calcium chain blocker that works to affect the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. It is available as the brand name drugs Norvasc and Katarzia.
