Amlodipine is a widely used medication that helps manage high blood pressure (hypertension) and chronic chest pain (angina). As a calcium channel blocker, it works by relaxing blood vessels, which improves blood flow and reduces the strain on your heart.
What Is Amlodipine Used For?
1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure)
Lowers blood pressure and helps reduce the risk of serious complications like heart attack, stroke, and kidney disease.
2. Chronic Stable Angina
Improves oxygen delivery to the heart muscle, easing chest discomfort during physical activity or stress.
3. Vasospastic Angina (Prinzmetal’s Angina)
Prevents sudden spasms in the coronary arteries, which can cause intense chest pain.
How Amlodipine Works
Amlodipine blocks calcium from entering the smooth muscle cells in the heart and arteries. Since calcium causes muscles to contract, this action relaxes blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and lowering blood pressure.
Dosage and Administration
- Usually taken once daily, with or without food
- Dosage depends on your condition and how your body responds
- Common doses: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, or 10 mg per day
- Always follow your doctor’s instructions and don’t stop the medication without consulting them first.
Common Side Effects
Most side effects are mild and manageable:
- Swelling in the ankles or feet (edema)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Facial flushing
- Fatigue
- Palpitations (feeling your heart race or skip)
Rare But Serious Side Effects
Seek medical help if you experience:
- Severe low blood pressure (fainting, extreme dizziness)
- Worsening angina or new chest pain
- Liver issues such as yellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)
Precautions and Warnings
- Tell your doctor if you have liver disease, heart failure, or a history of low blood pressure
- Avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice — it can raise amlodipine levels in your body, increasing side effects
- If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but skip it if your next dose is near
Drug Interactions
Amlodipine may interact with:
- Other antihypertensive drugs – could increase blood pressure-lowering effects
- Simvastatin – limit to 20 mg daily when taken with amlodipine
- CYP3A4 inhibitors like ketoconazole or itraconazole – may raise amlodipine levels
Always let your doctor know about any medications or supplements you are taking.
Conclusion
Amlodipine is a reliable and well-tolerated medication for managing high blood pressure and chest pain. Its once-daily dose and long-lasting effect make it convenient for many patients. Just be sure to follow your doctor’s advice and keep up with regular check-ups to monitor your response.
Never self-adjust your dosage or stop taking the drug without medical guidance.