GENERIC NAME
Amlodipine (am-LODD-a-peen)
DRUG USES
For those patients who have high blood pressure, and is sometime used to
treat angina (chest pains).
HOW DRUG WORKS
This drug blocks normal passage of calcium through cell walls, preventing
arteriole narrowing.
HOW TO TAKE
Amlodipine is normally taken orally once daily. It is taken orally and may
be taken with or without food.
SIDE EFFECTS
headache, dizziness or lightheadedness, water retention (edema), nausea, or
abdominal discomfort, flushing and weakness.
PRECAUTIONS
This medication should probably not be used if you have any history of liver
disease or of congestive heart failure.
OVERDOSE
Seek medical attention immediately. For non emergencies, contact your local
or regional poison control center at 1-800-222-1222.
DRUG INTERACTIONS
The effects of beta blockers (also for blood pressure) may be increased by
amlodipine. Also, use of amlodipine at the same time as fentanyl (for
chronic severe pain) may cause severe drop in blood pressure, so caution is
advised. For more information on drug interactions, talk to your pharmacist.
MISSED DOSE
Take your next dose as soon as you remember. If it is time for your next
dose, skip the missed dose and go back to your regular schedule. Do not
double doses.
PREGNANCY / NURSING
If you suspect that you may be pregnant, talk to your doctor. There are no
clear answers, but animal studies suggest caution during pregnancy, and use
should only be when risks are outweighed by possible benefits. For nursing
mothers, it is not known if amlodipine is excreted in breast milk, so
caution is recommended.
STORAGE
Keep this medication in the container it came in, tightly closed, and out of
reach of children. Store it at room temperature and away from excess heat
and moisture (not in the bathroom). Throw away any medication that is
outdated or no longer needed.
