Amlodipine: Uses, Dosage, Side Effects & Brands | MedexInfo
Amlodipine
Rx Only
Therapeutic ClassCalcium Channel Blocker (Dihydropyridine)
Common Dose5–10 mg daily
Max / 24h10 mg
PregnancyCategory C
Indications ▼
Hypertension (high blood pressure)
Chronic stable angina
Vasospastic (Prinzmetal) angina
Coronary artery disease adjunct therapy
Mechanism & Pharmacokinetics ▼
Mechanism: Inhibits calcium ion influx into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle, causing vasodilation and reduced blood pressure.
Pharmacokinetics: Oral absorption peak 6–12 hr; extensively metabolized in liver; excreted in urine (~60%) and feces (~10%); half-life ~30–50 hr.
Dosage & Administration ▼
| Patient Category | Recommended Dose | Max / 24h |
|---|---|---|
| Adults | 5–10 mg once daily | 10 mg |
| Elderly | Start 2.5 mg once daily; adjust as needed | 10 mg |
| Children (≥6 yr) | 2.5–5 mg once daily | 5 mg |
Side Effects ▼
Common: Edema, headache, dizziness, fatigue
Occasional: Palpitations, flushing, nausea
Rare: Severe hypotension, hepatic enzyme elevation, angina exacerbation
Contraindications ▼
Hypersensitivity to amlodipine or other dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers
Severe hypotension (systolic BP <90 mmHg)
Shock or unstable angina
Drug Interaction ▼
Simvastatin: may increase statin levels
Grapefruit juice: may increase amlodipine levels
Other antihypertensives: additive hypotensive effect
Pregnancy & Lactation ▼
Use only if clearly needed (Category C)
Excreted in breast milk in small amounts; use with caution
Clinical / Research Summary ▼
Blood Pressure Reduction: Amlodipine effectively lowers both systolic and diastolic blood pressure in hypertensive patients, with gradual onset and sustained 24-hour effect.
Angina Management: Reduces frequency and severity of angina attacks in stable and vasospastic angina.
Cardiovascular Outcomes: Clinical studies show decreased risk of hospitalization for angina and improved outcomes in patients with coronary artery disease.
Pharmacokinetic Advantage: Long half-life allows once-daily dosing, improving adherence.
Safety Profile: Generally well-tolerated; peripheral edema is the most common side effect, usually mild and dose-related.
Current Research Focus: Combination therapy with ACE inhibitors or ARBs, exploring long-term cardiovascular protection, and monitoring metabolic effects in hypertensive populations.
Storage & Handling ▼
Store at 20–25°C; protect from moisture & light
Keep out of reach of children
Patient Counseling Points ▼
How to take: Take once daily, with or without food, preferably at the same time each day.
Missed dose: Take as soon as remembered unless it is near the next dose; do not double dose.
Possible side effects: Peripheral edema, dizziness, flushing, headache; usually mild.
Monitor: Regular blood pressure checks recommended; inform doctor if hypotension or unusual swelling occurs.
Drug interactions: Inform healthcare provider about other medications including statins, antihypertensives, and grapefruit intake.
Lifestyle advice: Maintain low-salt diet, exercise regularly, avoid smoking, limit alcohol to enhance therapy.
Pregnancy and safety: Use during pregnancy or breastfeeding only if advised by physician.
Brand Names (Bangladesh & Global) ▼
Bangladesh (Local Brands):
Global / International Brands:
Amlogard
Norvasc
Amloc
Amlodipine
Norvasc
Istin
Amlodipine Sandoz
Medical Disclaimer: This clinical summary is for informational purposes only. Always follow guidance from a qualified healthcare professional for dosage, interactions, and use.
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