| name | Amlodipine |
| Classification | Calcium channel blocker, Dihydropyridine type |
| Pharmacokinetics | Amlodipine is rapidly absorbed after oral administration. Peak plasma concentrations are achieved within 6-12 hours. The drug is highly protein bound (approximately 97%) and is extensively metabolized in the liver. Elimination half-life is approximately 35-50 hours, leading to a sustained therapeutic effect. Renal excretion is minimal. The drug's prolonged half-life allows for once-daily dosing. |
| suggested dosage | | adult male 25y 70kg | | initial | 5 mg once daily | | typical maintenance | 5-10 mg once daily | | maximum | 10 mg once daily | | note | Dosage adjustments may be necessary based on individual patient response and blood pressure control. Consult with a healthcare professional for specific recommendations. |
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| indications | | 1 | Hypertension (high blood pressure) | | 2 | Angina pectoris (chest pain) | | 3 | Chronic stable angina | | 4 | Prevention of coronary artery spasms (Prinzmetal's angina) |
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| Safety in pregnancy | Amlodipine is generally considered to be a reasonable choice for managing hypertension during pregnancy, though there are still limited data. Consult with a healthcare professional regarding use during pregnancy to consider the risks and benefits. |
| Safety in breastfeeding | Amlodipine is generally considered safe during breastfeeding, though minimal amounts are excreted in breast milk. A healthcare professional should assess the balance of risks and benefits before prescribing this drug. |
| side effects | | 1 | Peripheral edema (swelling in the ankles and feet) | | 2 | Headache | | 3 | Dizziness | | 4 | Flushing | | 5 | Fatigue | | 6 | Palpitations | | 7 | Constipation | | 8 | Nausea | | 9 | Rash | | 10 | Very rarely, serious side effects like hypotension (low blood pressure) or heart failure can occur. |
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| alternatives | |
| contraindications | | 1 | Severe hypotension | | 2 | Severe left ventricular dysfunction | | 3 | Hypersensitivity to amlodipine or other calcium channel blockers | | 4 | Severe hepatic impairment (in patients with pre-existing liver disease) |
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| interactions | | 1 | CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin): May increase amlodipine levels, leading to increased risk of side effects. Avoid concurrent use, or adjust amlodipine dose. | | 2 | CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin): May decrease amlodipine levels, reducing its effectiveness. | | 3 | Other antihypertensives: Careful monitoring of blood pressure is necessary when combined with other antihypertensive medications. |
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| warnings and precautions | | 1 | Patients with impaired renal function may require dosage adjustments. | | 2 | Monitor blood pressure closely following the initiation of treatment. | | 3 | Use caution in patients with heart failure, as amlodipine may worsen symptoms. | | 4 | Avoid rapid dose changes; gradual adjustments are recommended. |
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| additional informations | | 1 | Amlodipine is available as a generic drug, offering cost-effectiveness. This information is for general knowledge only. Always consult with your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice and treatment. |
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