What is this medicine for
It is used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain or pressure (angina).
How does it work
It is a calcium channel blocker. It lowers the blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels. It controls chest pain by increasing blood supply to the heart muscle. If taken regularly, amlodipine controls chest pain, but it does not stop chest pain once it starts.
How should this medicine be used
Take Amlodipine exactly as directed by your doctor. - Do not take more or less than instructed by your doctor. - Amlodipine must be taken regularly for it to work well. - Continue taking Amlodipine even when you feel better. - Do not stop taking it unless instructed by your doctor. - You may take Amlodipine with or without food. - Try to take it at the same time each day.
Common side effects of this medicine
Feeling dizzy. Rise slowly over a few minutes when sitting or lying down. Be careful while climbing. - Headache. - Hard stools (constipation). Drinking more liquids, working out, or adding fiber to your diet may help. - Talk with your doctor about a stool softener or laxative. - Swelling in the arms or legs.
What do I do if I miss a dose
Take a missed dose as soon as you think about it. - If it is close to the time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your normal time. - Do not take 2 doses at the same time or extra doses. - Do not change the dose or stop this drug. - Talk with the doctor.
What precautions should I take when taking this medicine
Alert your doctor if you have heart or liver disease. - Alert your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. - Do not breastfeed while you are being treated with Amlodipine.
When do I need to seek medical help
If you think there was an overdose, call your local poison control center or ER right away. - Signs of a very bad reaction to the drug. - These include wheezing, chest tightness, fever, itching, bad cough, blue or gray skin color, seizures, or swelling of face, lips, tongue, or throat. - Very low blood sugar or very high blood sugar. - Very bad dizziness. - Trouble breathing. - Feeling cold. - Very bad belly pain. - Very upset stomach or throwing up. - Very loose stools (diarrhea). - A big weight loss. - Very bad muscle pain or weakness. - Feeling very tired or weak. - Any rash. - Side effect or health problem is not better or you are feeling worse.
Can I take it with other medicines
Inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, especially those listed here: Medicines for high blood pressure or heart disease. - Antiviral medicines such as ritonavir. - Antifungal medicines such as itraconazole, ketoconazole. - Always inform your doctor and pharmacist if you are taking any other medicines, including herbal tonics, supplements and medicines that you buy without a prescription.
Are there any food restrictions
Avoid Alcohol
How do I store this medicine
Store in a cool, dry place away from the reach of children. - Medicines must not be used past the expiry date.
Pregnancy Category
Category C : Animal reproduction studies have shown an adverse effect on the fetus and there are no adequate and well-controlled studies in humans, but potential benefits may warrant use of the drug in pregnant women despite potential risks.
Therapeutic Classification
Anti-Anginal Drugs, Calcium Antagonists
