Is there anyone in your house who takes medicine for 'pressure'? Or has your doctor ever prescribed you a pill called 'Amlodipine' for 'pressure' or chest pain? This is a very common medicine used by many people in our country. So today, let's talk simply and politely about this medicine called Amlodipine, what it does, and what you should be careful about when taking it.
What kind of medicine is Amlodipine?
Simply put, Amlodipine is a medication that is used to control high blood pressure and certain types of chest pain, known as angina.
Think of the blood vessels in our body as pipes that carry water. When the 'pressure' increases, the pressure inside these pipes increases. Amlodipine relaxes our blood vessels a little and increases their space. Then the blood can move more easily without getting stuck. This reduces the effort the heart has to pump blood. This medicine belongs to the group called 'calcium channel blockers' .
Things to tell your doctor before taking this medicine
It is very important that your doctor is aware of these things before prescribing Amlodipine to you. Therefore, if you have any of the following conditions, do not hide it from your doctor.
- If you have heart disease .
- If you have any liver disease.
- If you have ever had an allergic reaction to Amlodipine, another medicine, food, or dye .
- If you are pregnant or hoping to become pregnant .
- If you are a breastfeeding mother .
Talking openly with your doctor about your health condition is very important for your own safety.
How to use the medicine?
The method of using this medicine is very simple.
- Correct timing: This medicine is taken by mouth. Taking it at the same time every day is the best way to get the best results. Take it exactly as your doctor has prescribed.
- With or without food: You can take it before or after a meal. However, if you experience stomach upset, it is best to take it with a meal.
- Do not stop: You should continue taking this medicine until your doctor tells you to stop. Do not stop taking it suddenly, even if you feel better.
- If you accidentally take too many pills: If you accidentally take too many pills, do not panic and immediately go to the nearest hospital Emergency Department (ETU) . Or call the National Poisons Information Centre at the Colombo National Hospital .
- Do not share: This medicine has been prescribed for you only. Never share it with anyone else.
What do you do if you forget to take your medicine?
If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it is almost time for your next dose (for example, it is within a few hours), skip the missed dose and take the next dose at the scheduled time. Do not take double doses.
Let's also learn about side effects.
Like any medicine, Amlodipine can cause some side effects. However, most people do not experience these. Let's break these down into two categories.
| Side Effect | Description |
|---|---|
| 🚨 Serious side effects that should be reported to your doctor immediately | |
| Allergic reactions | Skin rash, itching, swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat. |
| Heart attack signs | Tightness or pain in the chest, shoulders, arms, or jaw, nausea, difficulty breathing, feeling cold, fainting. |
| Low blood pressure | Dizziness, fainting, blurred vision. |
| 🙂 Side effects that are usually not dangerous but should be reported to the doctor if they persist | |
| Facial flushing | Feeling hot and red in the face. |
| Palpitations | Feeling like your heart is beating fast, pounding, or irregularly. |
| Swelling of the ankles, hands, or feet | Swelling caused by fluid accumulation in the body. |
| Nausea or stomach ache | Stomach discomfort. |
Have you had these problems too?
Here are answers to some common questions people have about Amlodipine.
Should I take Amlodipine in the morning?
There is no rule. Some doctors say to take it in the morning, some say to take it at night. The most important thing is to take your medicine at the same time every day. Choose the time that is most convenient for you and take it at that time every day.
Does this medicine lower the heart rate?
No. Amlodipine does not have a significant effect on heart rate. Although there are other types of 'calcium channel blockers' that reduce heart rate (e.g. Diltiazem, Verapamil), Amlodipine does not belong to that category.
Does Amlodipine cause weight gain?
Usually not. However, some people may experience swelling in their legs, ankles, or hands (edema) as a side effect. When fluid builds up in the body like this, it can look like weight gain. This is not actually fat gain.
How long does it take for this medicine to work?
Amlodipine starts working on the first day. However, it can take about 5 to 7 days for a steady level of the drug to be reached in your body. So, if you are taking it for chest pain (angina), it may take a little over a week for the pain to subside.
Things to avoid while taking Amlodipine
- Grapefruit: Avoid drinking too much grapefruit or grapefruit juice while taking amlodipine, as grapefruit can increase the amount of this medication in the body and increase side effects such as dizziness.
- Other medications: Do not take over-the-counter medications for coughs, colds, or other pain while you are taking this medicine. Some medications can increase your blood pressure. Ask your doctor before taking anything.
- Herbal supplements: Tell your doctor if you are taking herbal supplements, such as St. John's wort, as they may affect the effectiveness of this medication.
- Alcohol: Drinking alcohol can make you feel more sleepy and dizzy, so it's best to avoid alcohol.
Take-Home Message
- Amlodipine is a very important medication used to control high blood pressure and chest pain (angina).
- Take the medicine at the same time every day, exactly as the doctor prescribed, and in the prescribed dosage.
- Be sure to tell your doctor about any other medications, vitamins, or herbal supplements you are taking.
- If you feel sleepy or dizzy, avoid risky activities such as driving. Avoid alcohol completely.
- If you forget to take your medicine, never take two doses at once.
- If you experience any severe side effects or unusual symptoms, contact your doctor immediately.
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