Amlodipine: Uses, Dosage & Safety

Amlodipine is a common blood pressure medicine that many people take every day. It belongs to a class called calcium channel blockers and helps relax blood vessels so the heart can pump easier. Doctors prescribe it mainly for high blood pressure and chest pain (angina). It's usually taken once a day and keeps working for 24 hours, so dosing is simple.

How it helps and doses

Amlodipine lowers the force the heart needs to push blood, which reduces blood pressure. For angina it improves blood flow to the heart and can reduce chest pain episodes. Adults often start with 5 mg once daily. If blood pressure stays high doctors may raise the dose to 10 mg. Older adults or people with liver problems may begin at 2.5 mg. Always follow your prescriber's instructions and do not crush extended-release tablets. Take amlodipine at the same time every day with or without food. If you miss a dose take it when you remember unless it's nearly time for the next dose—do not double up. Avoid stopping suddenly because a quick stop can cause blood pressure to spike. Keep a log of your blood pressure at home so you and your doctor can see how well the medicine is working.

Side effects, interactions and safety

The most common side effects are ankle swelling, flushing, headache and feeling tired. Some people notice dizziness when standing up quickly. Rare but serious problems include a fast heartbeat, worsening chest pain, or signs of an allergic reaction. Call emergency services if you faint, have trouble breathing, or get severe swelling. Amlodipine is processed in the liver through enzymes that some other medicines affect. Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors, like certain antifungals and antibiotics, can raise amlodipine levels and increase side effects. Powerful inducers such as rifampin may lower its effect. Combining amlodipine with other blood pressure medicines can cause low blood pressure, so watch for lightheadedness when starting or changing doses. Ask your pharmacist about grapefruit if you drink it often. Store tablets at room temperature away from moisture and heat. Keep them in their original container and out of reach of children. Contact your healthcare provider if swelling gets severe, you faint, breathing becomes difficult, chest pain increases, or you notice yellowing of the skin or dark urine as these can signal liver problems. If amlodipine isn't suitable your doctor may suggest another class such as an ACE inhibitor, an ARB, or a thiazide diuretic. Simple habits—cutting salt, losing a few kilos, moving more, and limiting alcohol—often help blood pressure and can let you use a lower drug dose. Always review your full medicine list with your pharmacist to spot interactions and keep care coordinated. Ask questions often. If you are pregnant, planning pregnancy, or breastfeeding, tell your doctor. Limited data exist on amlodipine in pregnancy. Your prescriber will weigh risks and benefits and may choose a different medicine while you are pregnant or breastfeeding to protect your baby. Keep regular follow ups.