Amlodipine alternatives: What can I take instead of amlodipine?

In this article:

• Amlodipine alternatives
• Calcium channel blockers
• ACE inhibitors
• ARBs
• Beta blockers
• Diuretics
• Natural alternatives
• How to switch to an alternative
• Choosing the right treatment

In this article

• Amlodipine alternatives
• Calcium channel blockers
• ACE inhibitors
• ARBs
• Beta blockers
• Diuretics
• Natural alternatives
• How to switch to an alternative
• Choosing the right treatment

Amlodipine is a generic medication prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It’s also approved to treat chest pain (angina) and other problems caused by coronary artery disease. Known by the brand name Norvasc, it works as a calcium channel blocker (CCB) that relaxes the blood vessels to reduce stress on the heart and allow blood to pump more freely. 

If amlodipine is not effective or causes side effects, such as swelling in the hands, legs, or feet (edema), your doctor may recommend an alternative medication. Common alternatives to amlodipine include other calcium channel blockers (CCBs), angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitors, angiotensin II receptor blockers (ARBs), beta blockers, or diuretics.

Continue reading to learn more about amlodipine alternatives and how they stack up against amlodipine. 

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What can I take instead of amlodipine?

The recommended amlodipine alternative will depend on why you need to stop taking amlodipine. If blood pressure is uncontrolled with amlodipine, a healthcare provider may recommend another medication on top of amlodipine. For example, if you have coronary artery disease and high blood pressure, a healthcare provider might recommend adding a beta blocker to your treatment plan instead of using a different medication alone.

If you experience intolerable side effects from amlodipine, a healthcare provider may recommend switching to a different CCB or other medication like an ACE inhibitor or ARB. They may also consider switching you to a lower dosage, especially if you have just started treatment, to see if the side effects improve. Although it’s not typically recommended, some healthcare providers might prescribe a diuretic alongside amlodipine to help reduce edema.

An alternative to amlodipine may be prescribed depending on the condition being treated, other conditions you may have, and your overall health. Some alternatives may be better for certain conditions than others. 

Prescription drug prices often change. These are the most accurate medication prices at the time of publishing in zip code 23666 as of Oct. 20, 2025. The listed price without insurance references the price of brand-name drugs (unless otherwise specified). The listed SingleCare price references the price of generic drugs if available.

Top 5 amlodipine alternatives

The following are some of the most common alternatives to amlodipine.

1. Other calcium channel blockers (such as nifedipine, diltiazem, or verapamil)

Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine CCB that mainly works on the blood vessels. Other dihydropyridine CCBs include nifedipine, felodipine, and lercanidipine. Studies suggest that lercanidipine has a lower risk of causing edema as a side effect than amlodipine, although this drug is not yet available in the United States. Diltiazem and verapamil are non-dihydropyridine CCBs that have greater effects on the heart than dihydropyridine CCBs. These types of CCBs may be a good alternative to amlodipine when used to treat angina instead of high blood pressure. 

2. ACE Inhibitors (such as lisinopril, ramipril, or benazepril)

ACE inhibitors are FDA-approved medications that block an enzyme that produces angiotensin II, a chemical that leads to the narrowing of blood vessels. ACE inhibitors are commonly prescribed to lower blood pressure, although they can also be used to treat other conditions like heart failure and heart attacks. They’re also recommended for people with high blood pressure, alongside heart failure and chronic kidney disease. Unlike amlodipine, they’re less likely to cause swelling. Examples include lisinopril, ramipril, and benazepril.

3. ARBs (such as losartan, telmisartan, or valsartan)

ARBs are commonly used to treat high blood pressure. They work by blocking the receptors that angiotensin II normally binds to. This prevents blood vessels from tightening, allowing them to stay relaxed and open, which helps lower blood pressure. Examples of ARBs include losartan, telmisartan, and valsartan. These medications are effective alternatives and may be preferred in people who experience intolerable side effects from amlodipine. 

4. Beta blockers (such as carvedilol, metoprolol, or bisoprolol)

Beta blockers lower blood pressure by blocking the effects of adrenaline, which causes the heart to beat more slowly and with less force. As a result, they help regulate heart rate, reduce the heart’s workload, and improve blood flow. They’re commonly prescribed for conditions such as high blood pressure, chest pain, and certain heart rhythm disorders like atrial fibrillation (AFib). Examples include carvedilol, metoprolol, atenolol, and bisoprolol. Beta blockers may be considered an alternative to amlodipine, especially in people with heart problems.

5. Diuretics (such as hydrochlorothiazide and indapamide)

Thiazide-like diuretics are a common alternative to amlodipine for treating high blood pressure. They lower blood pressure by helping the kidneys remove excess sodium and water from the body, reducing blood volume and easing pressure on the blood vessels. These medications are often recommended for older adults and Black patients, as studies and treatment guidelines show they may be more effective in these groups than some other drug classes. Common examples include indapamide, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ), and chlorthalidone.

Natural alternatives to amlodipine

No herbal or dietary supplements are approved to treat high blood pressure, and healthcare providers rarely recommend anything other than prescription medications and lifestyle changes. However, some studies show that certain supplements may help support healthy blood pressure. 

Limit sodium intake

The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends restricting sodium intake to 2,300 mg, or ideally 1,500 mg, per day. To clarify, 2,300 mg of sodium is equal to about 1 teaspoon of table salt. Some people may need even less sodium to manage their blood pressure.

Exercise

Being overweight or obese is linked to an increased risk of high blood pressure. Managing your weight and exercising are recommended ways to help control blood pressure. Studies have shown that aerobic exercise at least three times a week (or ideally, most days) helps lower systolic and diastolic blood pressure. 

Diet 

Healthcare providers often recommend what’s known as the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet to help lower blood pressure. This diet incorporates eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean sources of protein like fish and chicken. The DASH diet limits intake of red meats, full-fat dairy products, and foods high in saturated fats, sugar, and sodium. 

Quit smoking

Cigarettes and other tobacco products contain nicotine, which can constrict the blood vessels and increase blood pressure. Quitting smoking can help normalize blood pressure and reduce stress on the heart. 

Limit alcohol and caffeine

Excess alcohol consumption may lead to high blood pressure in the long run. Try to consume alcohol in moderation, or no more than two drinks per day for men or one drink per day for women. While not entirely significant, caffeine can lead to short-term increases in blood pressure. You may want to watch your caffeine intake, especially if you have uncontrolled high blood pressure. 

Supplements

Potassium, magnesium, and dietary fiber may help manage blood pressure. A healthcare provider may recommend following a diet rich in potassium, magnesium, and dietary fiber in addition to prescription medications. Other supplements that may help lower blood pressure include:

• Coenzyme Q10
• Garlic
• Fish oil
• Ginger
• Ginseng
• Flaxseed
• Beetroot
• Bergamot
• Probiotics

More conclusive studies are needed to determine the effect of these supplements on high blood pressure. It’s important to talk to a healthcare provider before taking a supplement for high blood pressure. 

How to switch to an amlodipine alternative

The process for switching blood pressure medications will vary. In many cases, a healthcare provider will first recommend increasing the dose of your amlodipine if your blood pressure is uncontrolled. They might recommend lowering the dose if you experience side effects. If dose changes don’t work, they may add another medication to your treatment plan or switch you to a different drug. 

Combination therapy is usually recommended for people with hard-to-treat high blood pressure and other medical conditions. People who are allergic to amlodipine or experiencing intolerable side effects from it may be switched to another CCB or blood pressure medication. 

While transitioning to another antihypertensive, your healthcare provider may start you on a lower dose and adjust it based on your blood pressure. Your blood pressure may need to be checked more regularly during the first few weeks of switching to a new medication. Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions during medication changes.

Choosing the right path for hypertension treatment

There are many effective alternatives to amlodipine, including ACE inhibitors, ARBs, beta blockers, and diuretics. The best choice depends on your overall health and how you respond to other medications. Many people may also benefit from lifestyle changes or combination treatments. 

Before switching to an amlodipine alternative, seek medical advice from your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider can help find the best option for your medical condition. They can also assess possible side effects or drug interactions before switching you to a different drug.