Uses of Amlodipine

Amlodipine is used to treat hypertension and certain types of angina (chest pain) called as Prinzmetal or variant angina.

Therapeutic Category

Amlodipine: Antihypertensive agents

How Amlodipine works

Amlodipine is a vasodilator. It works by relaxing the blood vessels supplying the heart and other organs. This helps in reducing the pressure exerted by the blood across the blood vessels in patients with hypertension. It also improves blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart muscles which reduces the strain on the heart and improves heart functions in patients with angina. 

Common side effects of Amlodipine

• edema (swelling of the ankles or other body parts)
• headache, dizziness, sleepiness
• palpitations (fast heartbeat)
• flushing (redness and warmth of the skin)
• changes in bowel habit
• visual disturbances, double vision
• muscle pains

When to consult your doctor

Consult your doctor:

• In case of accidental overdosage
• If you experience, any signs of allergic reactions (such as skin rash, swelling of the face, lips, mouth or throat which can lead to difficulty in breathing or swallowing)
• If you experience severe chest pain with shortness of breath
• If you experience severe stomach pain that radiates to the back side of the body

Health Tips for Amlodipine

• Grapefruit juice can interact with amlodipine and increase the risk of side effects. It's best to avoid consuming grapefruit or its juice while taking this medication
• Amlodipine is often part of a comprehensive treatment plan for hypertension. It's important to adopt a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise, a balanced diet low in sodium, limited alcohol consumption, and stress management techniques