Amlodipine
Molecule Description
Amlodipine is a medicine mostly used to treat high blood pressure.
Uses of Amlodipine
Amlodipine is used to treat high blood pressure and coronary artery disease.
Contraindications of Amlodipine
When should one not use Amlodipine
- If you are allergic to amlodipine or any other calcium antagonists
- If you have very low blood pressure (hypotension)
- If you are suffering from narrowing of the aorta heart valve (aortic stenosis) or cardiogenic shock (a condition where your heart is unable to supply enough blood to the body)
- If you suffer from heart failure after a heart attack
Side effects of Amlodipine
Common side effects of this drug are:
- Swelling of feet
- Fatigue
- Nausea
- Headache, dizziness, sleepiness
- Stomach pain
- Abnormal heartbeat
- Flushing
- Swelling or inflammation to the pancreas
- Sudden wheeziness
- Excessive fall in blood pressure
- Allergic reactions (skin rash, itching)
Precautions and Warnings of Amlodipine
Pregnancy
Q:
Can I take Amlodipine during pregnancy?
A:
Amlodipine is not considered ‘safe’ for use during pregnancy. Hence, it should not be usually used during pregnancy because there are other relatively safer alternatives to control blood pressure.
Breast Feeding
Q:
Can I take Amlodipine while breastfeeding?
A:
Whether Amlodipine passes into breast milk is not exactly known. Hence, you should avoid taking Amlodipine during breastfeeding.
Driving
Q:
Can I drive if I have consumed Amlodipine?
A:
Be cautious as Amlodipine may make you feel dizzy or sleepy.
Alcohol
Q:
Can I consume alcohol with Amlodipine?
A:
Alcohol can raise the blood pressure, and hence, it is advised to be cautious.
Other General Warnings
Talk to your doctor if
You have heart problem (aortic stenosis), very low blood pressure, liver disease, recent heart attack.
Mode of Action of Amlodipine
How Does It Work?
Calcium ions are necessary for active contraction of smooth muscles in the heart and blood vessels. Amlodipine inhibits transport of these calcium ions across membranes of heart cells and blood vessels; this inhibits cardiac and vascular smooth muscle contraction, thereby dilating the heart and arteries. Amlodipine reduces the load on the heart and decreases tension in blood vessels, thus lowering the blood pressure....
Interactions of Amlodipine
Interactions with other medicines
Many medicines are known to interact with Amlodipine; hence, the person is advised to consult with the doctor. Medicines that interact with Amlodipine include Dantrolene, Diltiazem, Nefazodone, Simvastatin, Pirfenidone, Ivacaftor, Amphetamine, Rifampicin, and Tacrolimus....
Interactions with food items
Grapefruit juice and grapefruit should not be consumed by people who are taking Amlodipine as these can cause a drastic drop in blood pressure.
Dietary Restrictions of Amlodipine
If your doctor advised you a low-salt or low-sodium diet, follow those directions carefully.
Dosage of Amlodipine
Overdose
You must immediately report to an emergency medical care unit, as there are chances of excessive lowering of blood pressure, fainting, and slow, fast or irregular heartbeat, dizziness with an overdose. These complications could be fatal....
Missed a Dose
It is ideal not to miss a dose. You can take the missed dose when you remember it, if there is sufficient time left for the next scheduled dose. Do not compensate for the missed dose by taking an extra dose....
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What should I discuss with the doctor before taking Amlodipine?
A: Tell your doctor if you have ever suffered from heart or liver disease or if you are a known case of heart failure. It is essential to mention it to your doctor if you are pregnant, are planning to be pregnant, or are breastfeeding. Tell your doctor about all your medicine you are already taking before starting Amlodipine.
References
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