Amlodipine

Dosage Forms Available for Amlodipine

• Amlodipine is available for use via the oral route (tablet and suspension).

Age And Dosage Restrictions for Amlodipine

• This medicine is meant for adults and children above six years of age.

Contraindications of Amlodipine

• The medication is not recommended in patients with a known hypersensitivity to amlodipine.

Medications To Avoid With Amlodipine

• Amlodipine may interact with various medications, including those used to lower blood pressure (benazepril, metoprolol, ramipril, hydrochlorothiazide), drugs utilised to manage lipid levels in the blood (like atorvastatin simvastatin), medications for erectile dysfunction (sildenafil), antibiotics (including clarithromycin, erythromycin, rifampin), antifungal agents (such as itraconazole, ketoconazole), anti-HIV drugs (like ritonavir), anti-epilepsy medications (including carbamazepine, phenytoin, phenobarbital, primidone), immune-suppressing drugs (like cyclosporine, tacrolimus), and painkillers (such as ibuprofen, aspirin).

Overdose and Missed Dose

• An overdose of this medication may cause symptoms like low blood pressure and increased heart rate. If you observe these symptoms, inform your doctor and follow the advice accordingly.
• If you forget to take this medicine, take it as soon as you remember. But avoid repeating the dose.

Management of Side Effects

• Most side effects are temporary and generally harmless and resolve when discontinuing this medicine. However, if you experience any severe side effects or worsening of any of the symptoms, please consult your doctor.

Use in Driving and Operating Machinery

• This medication may impair your ability to drive and operate heavy machinery.

Use in Pregnancy and Lactation

• Amlodipine is not recommended for use in pregnancy and breastfeeding unless recommended by your doctor.

Caution in Other Conditions

• Patients with a history of kidney or liver issues, heart diseases, and heart attack should be cautious.
• Avoid alcohol when taking amlodipine.

Special Dietary & Lifestyle Recommendation

• Individuals managing hypertension and heart conditions should consider lifestyle changes, including dietary adjustments such as incorporating a low-sodium, low-carbohydrate, and low-fat diet alongside amlodipine.
• Proper education on recognising the signs and symptoms of heart attacks and strokes is essential. This knowledge can lead to quicker interventions, minimising complications and ultimately promoting a faster and more complete recovery.