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Amlodipine: Brands, Price & Uses in Bangladesh

Hypertension Amlodipine is established (FDA-approved) for the treatment of hypertension, used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents and more.

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About Amlodipine

Indications of Amlodipine

Hypertension

Amlodipine is established (FDA-approved) for the treatment of hypertension, used alone or in combination with other antihypertensive agents, to lower blood pressure in adults and in children 6 years of age and older.

Chronic Stable Angina

Amlodipine is established for the treatment of chronic stable angina, used alone or in combination with other anti-anginal agents, to reduce the frequency of angina episodes.

Vasospastic (Prinzmetal's) Angina

Amlodipine is established for the treatment of confirmed or suspected vasospastic (Prinzmetal's variant) angina.

Coronary Artery Disease

Amlodipine is guideline-supported for use in patients with angiographically documented coronary artery disease, to reduce the risk of hospitalization for angina and the need for revascularization procedures, in patients without heart failure or an ejection fraction below 40%.

Dosage & Administration of Amlodipine

Dosing of Amlodipine depends on the indication being treated, the patient's age, and hepatic function, and should always be individualized by a healthcare professional. Amlodipine is generally started at a low dose and titrated gradually based on blood pressure or anginal response.

Side Effects of Amlodipine

Common Side Effects

  • Swelling of the ankles or feet (peripheral edema), which is dose-related and one of the most common reasons for stopping treatment
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness
  • Flushing (warmth or redness of the face)
  • Headache
  • Palpitations or a fast heartbeat
  • Fatigue or drowsiness
  • Nausea or abdominal discomfort

Less Common or Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention)

  • Symptomatic low blood pressure: severe dizziness, fainting, or feeling like you might pass out (see Precautions and Warnings)
  • Worsening chest pain or a heart attack, which can rarely occur, particularly when treatment is started or the dose is increased in patients with severe underlying coronary artery disease (see Precautions and Warnings)
  • Signs of liver problems: yellowing of the skin or eyes, dark urine, or unusual tiredness
  • Gum swelling or overgrowth (gingival hyperplasia) with long-term use; good dental hygiene can help reduce this
  • Signs of an allergic reaction: rash, itching, swelling of the face/lips/tongue, or difficulty breathing

Contraindications of Amlodipine

  • Known hypersensitivity to Amlodipine or to other dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers.

Frequently Asked Questions about Amlodipine

What is Amlodipine used for?

Amlodipine is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and certain types of chest pain (chronic stable angina and vasospastic/Prinzmetal's angina), and is also used in some patients with documented coronary artery disease. It works by relaxing blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow to the heart.

How should I take Amlodipine?

Amlodipine is usually taken once a day, with or without food, at about the same time each day. It is important to keep taking Amlodipine as prescribed even if you feel well, since high blood pressure often has no symptoms. See Dosage and Administration for typical doses.

What are the most common side effects of Amlodipine?

The most common side effects of Amlodipine are swelling of the ankles or feet, dizziness, flushing, headache, palpitations, and fatigue. Swelling is dose-related and is one of the most common reasons people stop the medicine; tell your doctor if it bothers you. See Side Effects for more details.

Is Amlodipine safe to take during pregnancy or while breastfeeding?

Amlodipine should only be used in pregnancy if clearly needed and if the potential benefit outweighs the potential risk to the baby, and only under a doctor's guidance; data in human pregnancy are limited. Amlodipine passes into breast milk in small amounts, so whether to breastfeed while taking it should be decided together with your doctor. See Pregnancy and Lactation for full details.

Can I stop taking Amlodipine suddenly?

You should not stop taking Amlodipine suddenly without talking to your doctor, especially if you are being treated for angina. Your doctor can advise on whether and how to adjust or stop treatment safely.

Does Amlodipine interact with other medicines?

Yes. Amlodipine can raise blood levels of simvastatin (increasing muscle injury risk, so simvastatin is usually limited to 20 mg daily if taken together), and its own levels can be increased by strong CYP3A4 inhibitors (such as clarithromycin or itraconazole) or reduced by strong inducers (such as rifampin). It also has an additive blood-pressure-lowering effect with other antihypertensive medicines. Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about all medicines you take. See Interaction for full details.

Disclaimer

The information provided is accurate to the best of our knowledge, but it does not replace professional medical advice. We cannot guarantee its completeness or accuracy, and the absence of specific information about a drug should not be taken as an endorsement. We are not responsible for any consequences arising from this information, so please consult a healthcare professional for any concerns or questions.

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