Amlodipine

Overview

It relaxes the muscle in artery walls so blood flows more easily.

What it's used for

• High blood pressure
• Chest pain from narrowed heart arteries (angina)

How to take it

• Take it once a day, with or without food.
• It may take 1 to 2 weeks to see the full effect on blood pressure.
• Keep taking it even if you feel well.

Your dose depends on your health and other medicines. Always follow your prescription label, and ask your pharmacist if anything is unclear.

Side effects

Common side effects

• Swollen ankles or feet
• Flushing
• Headache
• Dizziness
• Tiredness

Warnings

• Tell your provider if you have liver disease or a narrowed heart valve (aortic stenosis).

Other medicines, foods, and alcohol

• Simvastatin: higher doses together raise the risk of muscle problems.
• Some antifungals and antibiotics can raise amlodipine levels.

Tell your provider and pharmacist about every medicine, vitamin, and supplement you take.

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Talk with your provider. Other medicines may be preferred in pregnancy.

Missed doses, overdose, and storage

If you miss a dose

Take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Then skip the missed dose. Don't take two doses at once.

If someone takes too much

Call Poison Control at 1-800-222-1222 or get help online at poison.org. Call 911 if the person collapses, has a seizure, has trouble breathing, or can't be woken.

Storing it

Store at room temperature, away from heat and moisture (not in the bathroom), and out of reach of children and pets.

Conditions it's used for

• High blood pressure (hypertension)
• Angina (chest pain from narrowed heart arteries)