Description
Amlodipine is under the category of calcium antagonists. It is primarily used to manage high blood pressure (hypertension) and a specific type of chest pain known as angina, including Prinzmetal’s or variant angina, albeit rare.
For hypertensive patients, amlodipine operates by dilating blood vessels, facilitating smoother blood flow. In individuals with angina, it enhances blood flow to the heart muscle, thereby increasing oxygen delivery and preventing chest pain. It’s important to note that amlodipine does not offer immediate relief from angina episodes.
Avoid taking Amlodipine if:
– You have a known allergy to amlodipine, or if you’re allergic to any other calcium antagonists. Symptoms of an allergic reaction may include itching, skin reddening, or difficulty breathing
-severe low blood pressure (hypotension)
– In ortic stenosis (narrowing of the aortic heart valve) or cardiogenic shock (a condition where the heart cannot supply enough blood to the body).
-Heart failure following a heart attack.
Interaction with other drugs, food
Amlodipine may interact with or be influenced by other medications, including:
– Ketoconazole, itraconazole (antifungal medications), ritonavir, indinavir, nelfinavir (protease inhibitors used in HIV treatment)
– Rifampicin, erythromycin, clarithromycin (antibiotics)
– Hypericum perforatum (St. John’s Wort)
– Verapamil, diltiazem (heart medications)
– Dantrolene (used for severe body temperature abnormalities)
– Tacrolimus, sirolimus, temsirolimus, and everolimus (immunosuppressants)
– Simvastatin (cholesterol-lowering medication)
– Cyclosporine (an immunosuppressant)
Combining amlodipine with other medications for high blood pressure may further decrease blood pressure levels.
Avoid consuming grapefruit juice or grapefruit while taking Amlodipine, as it can increase blood levels of the active ingredient, potentially causing an unpredictable rise in the blood pressure-lowering effect of Amlodipine.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding considerations for Amlodipine:
Pregnancy:
If you suspect you might be pregnant or are planning pregnancy, inform your doctor before taking Amlodipine.
Breastfeeding:
Inform your doctor if you are breastfeeding or planning to breastfeed before taking Amlodipine.
Always consult your doctor or pharmacist for guidance before taking any medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Driving and using machines
Amlodipine may affect your ability to drive or use machines. If the tablets make you feel sick, dizzy, or tired, or give you a headache, do not drive or use machines.
Dosage:
Your physician will prescribe a dosage that is right for you, please take it before or after meals, at the same time of the day.
Avoid grape fruit or grape fruit juice.
