- Amlodipine is a commonly used blood pressure medication prescribed to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and heart conditions such as angina (chest pain)
- It belongs to a group of medicines called calcium channel blockers, which help blood vessels relax and improve blood flow
How it works
- As a calcium channel blocker, amlodipine causes blood vessels to widen, allowing blood to flow more easily
- This lowers blood pressure and reduces strain on the heart
- In people with angina, amlodipine improves oxygen supply to the heart muscle, helping to prevent chest pain
Who is amlodipine used for?
Amlodipine is used for people with:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Chronic stable angina and vasospastic (Prinzmetal) angina
- Reducing the risk of heart attack and stroke related to high blood pressure
Dose
The usual amlodipine dose depends on age and medical condition:
- Adults: 5 mg once daily, increased to 10 mg if needed
- Elderly or liver disease patients: 2.5 mg once daily (start low)
- Children (6–17 years): 2.5–5 mg once daily
Note. Patients should not stop taking amlodipine without medical advice.
Side-effects
Amlodipine side effects are usually mild and temporary.
- Swollen ankles or feet (amlodipine ankle oedema). This is common.
- Headache
- Dizziness and tiredness
- Flushing
- Increased heart rate
Serious side effects such as irregular heartbeat or severe palpitations are uncommon but require medical attention.
Monitoring
Your doctor should monitor:
- Blood pressure
- For ankle or leg swelling
- Heart rate if symptoms occur
- Liver function tests in patients with liver disease
