Amlodipine

Information About Amlodipine

Uses of Amlodipine

Amlodipine is commonly used in the treatment of angina heart related chest pain, arrhythmias, anal fissure, subarachnoid haemorrhage and also used in hypertensive emergency.

How Amlodipine Works

Amlodipine is a Calcium Channel Blocker. It reduces peripheral vascular resistance by relaxing coronary vascular smooth muscle and vasodilates coronary vessels through inhibition of calcium ion transmembrane influx into cardiac and vascular smooth muscles.

Side Effects of Amlodipine

Peripheral oedema, Hypotension, Chest pain, Thrombocytopenia, Visual disturbances, Tinnitus, Nausea, Headache, Dizziness

Authorship

Written By

Dr Sri Viknarajan

MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)

Reviewed By

Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli

MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM)

Amlodipine Related Warnings

Alcohol Not Advisable

It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Amlodipine. Taking amlodipine with alcohol may worsen the side effects of Amlodipine such as headache, dizziness and visual disturbance. Furthermore, amlodipine is metabolised in the liver and alcohol consumption leads to a risk of liver damage.

Pregnancy Not Safe

Amlodipine may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies. The benefits of using Amlodipine among pregnant women outweigh the risks. Please consult your doctor.

Lactation Limited Data

Amlodipine is reported to be excreted into breast milk. However, the effect of the exposure towards the babies remains unknown. There is also stated that no side effects were reported with the exposure. Please consult your doctor for further details.

Driving Not advisable

Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Amlodipine may cause side effects such as dizziness headache, tiredness or nausea, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.

Kidney Use With Care

Amlodipine should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. Amlodipine is mostly excreted via urine. Thus, dose adjustment of Amlodipine may be needed. Please consult your doctor.

Liver Use With Care

The liver disease should use Amlodipine with caution. It is extensively metabolised in the liver. Extensive use of amlodipine also increases the liver enzyme. Dose adjustment of Amlodipine may be needed. Please consult your doctor.