Generic Name(s)— Amlodipine
Brand Name(s)— Katerzia, Norvasc
What Is Amlodipine?
Amlodipine is a medication, used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and coronary artery disease. Lowering high blood pressure may help to prevent many problems such as heart attacks, strokes and kidney problems. Amlodipine belongs to a group of drugs known as calcium channel blockers. It helps to relax blood vessels so the blood can flow more easily.
It can be used if other medications are not sufficient for treating hypertension or heart—related chest pain. The medication is typically not recommended in heart failures.
It can be used by adults and children who are at least 6 years old. [Trusted Source 1]
Important Information:
Before having Amlodipine medication, tell your doctor or health care provider if you have congestive heart failure or liver disease.
Avoid drinking alcohol because it may lower your blood pressure and may increase certain side-effects of amlodipine.
Tell your health care provider about all other heart or blood pressure medications you are currently taking.
It is not clear whether the use of this medicine is safe during pregnancy or breast—feeding. [Trusted Source 2]
Overdose:
Amlodipine overdose can cause many side-effects such as fast heart rate, widening of blood vessels, severe low blood pressure, redness or warmth in your arms or legs. [Trusted Source 1] [Trusted Source 2]
Seek emergency medical attention or call the Poison Help line at 1—800—222—1222.
Interactions:
Tell your doctor about all the medications you’re currently taking and any other you are going to start or stop using, especially: [Trusted Source 2]
- CYP3A inhibitors
- Cyclosporine
- Tacrolimus
- Nitroglycerin
- Simvastatin (Zocor, Simcor, Vytorin)
- Any other heart or blood pressure medications
It is not recommended to take amlodipine with Viagra because it may increase the risk of hypotension.
Side-Effects of Amlodipine:
Common side-effects of amlodipine may include [Trusted Source 1] —
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Drowsiness
- Feeling tired
- Stomach pain
- Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling)
Serious side-effects may include [Trusted Source 1] —
- Severe drowsiness
- Worsening chest pain
- Swelling in your feet or ankles
- Pounding heartbeats or fluttering in your chest
- A light—headed feeling, like you might pass out
What Happens If I Miss A Dose?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember. If you are more than 12 hours late, skip the missed dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up the missed dose.
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