Amlodipine: What Is It? What Is It Used For? Detailed Prospectus

Amlodipine: What Is It? What Is It Used For? Detailed Prospectus

• Active Ingredient: Amlodipine
• Indications:
  • Calcium Channel Blocker: Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and certain types of chest pain (angina).
  • Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): It helps lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood.
  • Angina (Chest Pain): Amlodipine is used to prevent and treat angina by improving blood flow to the heart muscle.
  • Coronary Artery Disease: It is also prescribed for individuals with coronary artery disease to reduce the risk of heart-related problems such as heart attack and stroke.
• Dosage Instructions:
  • Adults: The usual starting dose for hypertension is 5 mg once daily. The dose may be increased to a maximum of 10 mg per day, depending on the patient’s response.
  • Angina: The typical dose for angina is 5 mg once daily, which can be increased if necessary.
  • Special Instructions: Amlodipine should be taken once daily, with or without food. It is important to take it at the same time each day. Do not suddenly stop taking Amlodipine, as this can cause a rapid increase in blood pressure.
• Side Effects:
  • Common: Swelling of the ankles or feet, dizziness, headache, flushing, and fatigue.
  • Severe: Chest pain, irregular heartbeat, or signs of allergic reactions like rash, itching, or difficulty breathing.
  • If you experience any severe symptoms, contact your healthcare provider immediately.
• Warnings:
  • Heart Conditions: Amlodipine can cause a slow heart rate (bradycardia) or worsen certain heart conditions. It should be used cautiously in people with severe heart failure or heart rhythm problems.
  • Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: Amlodipine is classified as Category C for pregnancy, meaning it should only be used if clearly needed during pregnancy. It is also present in breast milk, so consult your doctor if you are breastfeeding.
  • Liver Impairment: Caution is required in patients with liver disease, as it can affect the way Amlodipine is metabolized. Your doctor may adjust the dose based on your liver function.
• Drug Interactions:
  • CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Medications like ketoconazole, erythromycin, or grapefruit juice can increase the blood levels of Amlodipine, potentially increasing the risk of side effects.
  • Other Antihypertensive Drugs: Combining Amlodipine with other blood pressure-lowering medications (e.g., ACE inhibitors, diuretics) can cause a significant drop in blood pressure.
  • Beta-Blockers: If you are taking beta-blockers (e.g., metoprolol), you may experience an increased risk of low blood pressure and slow heart rate.
• Storage Instructions:
  • Store at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and light.
  • Keep the medication in its original container, tightly closed, and out of the reach of children.
• Expiration Date:
  • Do not use after the expiration date listed on the packaging. Safely dispose of unused or expired medication.