Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and angina (chest pain). Amlodipine works by relaxing the blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the workload on the heart.
Amlodipine is generally well-tolerated, but it can cause side effects in some people. The most common side effects of amlodipine include:
- Headache (5-10%)
- Flushing (3-5%)
- Edema (swelling) of the extremities (2-4%)
- Dizziness (2-3%)
- Dyspepsia (indigestion) (2-3%)
Less common side effects of amlodipine include:
- Fatigue (1-2%)
- Nausea (1-2%)
- Constipation (1-2%)
- Diarrhea (1-2%)
- Palpitations (1-2%)
Rare side effects of amlodipine include:
- Rash (less than 1%)
- Stevens-Johnson syndrome (a serious skin reaction) (less than 1%)
- Anaphylaxis (a severe allergic reaction) (less than 1%)
If you experience any of these side effects, talk to your doctor. They may be able to lower your dose or switch you to a different medication.
Amlodipine and Pregnancy
Amlodipine is not recommended for use during pregnancy. Studies have shown that amlodipine can cross the placenta and reach the fetus. Amlodipine has been associated with an increased risk of birth defects, including heart defects and limb defects.
If you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant, talk to your doctor about other medications that may be safer for you.
Amlodipine and Breastfeeding
Amlodipine is not recommended for use during breastfeeding. Studies have shown that amlodipine can be passed into breast milk. Amlodipine can cause side effects in nursing infants, including drowsiness, irritability, and vomiting.
If you are breastfeeding, talk to your doctor about other medications that may be safer for you.
Tips for Taking Amlodipine
- Take amlodipine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. Do not take more or less of the medication than prescribed.
- Take amlodipine with food. This will help to reduce the risk of stomach upset.
- Avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking amlodipine. Grapefruit juice can increase the levels of amlodipine in your blood, which can increase the risk of side effects.
- Tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. Some medications can interact with amlodipine and increase the risk of side effects.
Conclusion
Amlodipine is a safe and effective medication for treating high blood pressure and angina. However, it can cause side effects in some people. If you experience any side effects from amlodipine, talk to your doctor. They may be able to lower your dose or switch you to a different medication.
Table 1: Common Side Effects of Amlodipine
| Side Effect | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Headache | 5-10% |
| Flushing | 3-5% |
| Edema | 2-4% |
| Dizziness | 2-3% |
| Dyspepsia | 2-3% |
Table 2: Less Common Side Effects of Amlodipine
| Side Effect | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Fatigue | 1-2% |
| Nausea | 1-2% |
| Constipation | 1-2% |
| Diarrhea | 1-2% |
| Palpitations | 1-2% |
Table 3: Rare Side Effects of Amlodipine
| Side Effect | Percentage |
|---|---|
| Rash | Less than 1% |
| Stevens-Johnson syndrome | Less than 1% |
| Anaphylaxis | Less than 1% |
Table 4: Tips for Taking Amlodipine
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Take amlodipine exactly as prescribed by your doctor. | Do not take more or less of the medication than prescribed. |
| Take amlodipine with food. | This will help to reduce the risk of stomach upset. |
| Avoid drinking grapefruit juice while taking amlodipine. | Grapefruit juice can increase the levels of amlodipine in your blood, which can increase the risk of side effects. |
| Tell your doctor about all of the medications you are taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements. | Some medications can interact with amlodipine and increase the risk of side effects. |
