Amlodipine - Benefits, dosage and side effects

Amlodipine is a drug to lower blood pressure on condition hypertension. In addition, this drug can also be used in the treatment of chest pain due to coronary heart disease (angina pectoris)..

Amlodipine belongs to the class calcium-channel blockers (CCBs) or calcium antagonists. This drug works by helping to relax the muscles of the blood vessels. That way, blood vessels will widen, blood can flow more smoothly, and blood pressure can decrease.

Amlodipine can be used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive drugs. Keep in mind that this drug should not be used carelessly and must be according to a doctor's prescription.

Branddbro amlodipineAmlodipine Besilate, Amlodipine Besylate, Amovask, Comdipin, Norvask, Quentin, Simvask, Tensivask, Zenovask

What is Amlodipine

groupPrescription drugs
CategoryCalcium antagonist
BenefitLowering blood pressure in hypertension
Consumed byAdults and children aged 6 years and over
Amlodipine for pregnant and lactating womenCategory C: Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no controlled studies in pregnant women.

Drugs should only be used if the expected benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus.

Amlodipine can be absorbed into breast milk. If you are breastfeeding, do not use this medicine without telling your doctor.

Drug formTablet

Warning Before Taking Amlodipine

Before taking amlodipine, you need to pay attention to the following:

  • Do not use amlodipine if you are allergic to this drug. Tell your doctor about any allergies you have.
  • Tell your doctor if you have or are currently suffering from liver disease, heart disease, heart valve disorders (aortic stenosis), or low blood pressure.
  • Do not drive a vehicle or do activities that require alertness after taking amlodipine, as this medicine may cause dizziness.
  • Tell your doctor that you are taking amlodipine if you are having surgery, including dental surgery.
  • Tell your doctor if you are taking certain medications, supplements, or herbal products.
  • Tell your doctor if you are pregnant, are planning a pregnancy, or are breastfeeding.
  • See your doctor right away if you have an allergic drug reaction, serious side effect, or overdose after taking amlodipine.

Dosage and Dosage of Amlodipine

Amlodipine should only be used as directed by a doctor. The following are general doses of amlodipine based on the patient's condition and age:

Condition: Hypertension

  • Mature: 5–10 mg per day.
  • 6 kids17 years: 2.5–5 mg per day.

Condition: Angina pectoris

  • Mature: 5–10 mg per day.

Method Consuming Amlodipine Correctly

Follow the doctor's advice and read the information listed on the medicine package before taking amlodipine. Do not reduce or increase the dose without consulting your doctor first.

Amlodipine can be taken before or after meals. Try to take amlodipine at the same time every day for maximum treatment.

Keep taking this medicine even if you feel well. Do not stop taking this medication without consulting your doctor.

If you forget to take amlodipine, it is advisable to take it immediately if the interval between the next consumption schedule is not too close. If it is close, ignore it and do not double the dose.

During treatment with amlodipine, your doctor will ask you to have your blood pressure measured regularly. Follow the examination schedule given by the doctor.

In order to better control blood pressure, the use of amlodipine should be accompanied by the application of a healthy lifestyle, such as following a low-salt and low-fat diet, exercising regularly, not smoking, and limiting the consumption of alcoholic beverages.

Store amlodipine in a dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep this medicine out of reach of children.

Amlodipine Interactions with Other Drugs

The following are some drug interactions that can occur when amlodipine is used with other drugs:

  • Increased levels and effectiveness of amlodipine when used with ciclosporin, erythromycin, diltiazem, or azole antifungals
  • Decreased levels and effectiveness of amlodipine when used with rifampicin
  • Increased levels of simvastatin in the blood
  • Increased risk of raised blood pressure when used with aspirin
  • Increased risk of side effects, including heart and blood vessel disorders and hyperkalemia when used with dantrolene
  • Increased risk of hypotension or low blood pressure when used with tizanidine

Amlodipine Side Effects and Dangers

Some of the side effects that can occur after taking amlodipine are:

  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, drowsiness, or headache
  • Swelling of the legs
  • A feeling of warmth and warmth in the face, neck, or chest ( flush )
  • Stomach pain or nausea
  • Unusual tired

Consult a doctor if the side effects above do not subside immediately or are getting worse. Call your doctor right away if you have an allergic drug reaction or a more serious side effect, such as:

  • Heart palpitations, fast, or irregular heartbeat
  • Chest pain that does not improve, especially accompanied by difficulty breathing and excessive sweating
  • Dizzy like I'm going to faint
  • Jaundice, very severe abdominal pain, or severe nausea and vomiting