What is Amlodipine? Uses, warnings & side effects

How to take Amlodipine

• Take this medicine as directed. 

• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. 

• It is easier to remember each day’s dose if you take each dose at the same time every day.

• Amlodipine can be taken with or without food.

• How to take amlodipine tablets

  • Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water

  • Store the tablets at room temperature in a light-protected container

• How to take amlodipine suspension

  • Shake the bottle well before measuring a dose

  • Use the calibrated oral syringe or other measuring device that comes with this medicine to measure the dose accurately

  • Store amlodipine oral suspension at room temperature, protected from light, freezing, or excessive heat

What to do if you miss a dose of Amlodipine

• If a dose is missed, take it when remembered.

• If it’s been 12 hours or more after the dose is normally taken, skip the missed dose. Take the next dose as scheduled.

• Do not take extra doses to make up for a missed dose.

Amlodipine contraindications - Who shouldn't take Amlodipine?

• Amlodipine is not right for everyone. 

• Do not use it if you have had an allergic reaction to amlodipine.

Amlodipine warnings

• Tell any doctor or other healthcare provider who treats you that you are using this medicine.

• Your doctor may need to do lab tests regularly to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• Tell your doctor if you have:

  • A history of liver disease

  • A history of heart disease

• This medicine may cause the following problems: 

  • Peripheral edema

  • Low blood pressure

  • Worsening of chest pain

  • Heart attack

  • Heart rhythm abnormalities

• This medicine could lower your blood pressure too much, especially when you first use it or if you are dehydrated. Stand or sit up slowly if you feel lightheaded or dizzy.

• Do not stop using this medicine without asking your doctor, even if you feel well. This medicine will not cure high blood pressure, but it will help keep it in a normal range. 

Amlodipine interactions & what to avoid when taking Amlodipine

• To avoid potentially hazardous drug interactions, tell the prescribing healthcare provider about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements you use before taking amitriptyline.

• Tell other healthcare providers you are using this medicine before they prescribe new medications.

• Amlodipine can increase the risk of side effects caused by other medicines. Alternatively, other medicines can increase the risk of amlodipine side effects. Tell your doctor if you are also using alprazolam, clarithromycin, cyclosporine, diltiazem, itraconazole, ritonavir, sildenafil, simvastatin, or tacrolimus.

Find more detailed information about amlodipine besylate interactions to avoid here.