Amlodipine
Generic Name: Amlodipine
Uses & Medical Indications
Treat high blood pressure
Hypertension, angina
Work Mechanism & Pharmacology
Patient Overview of Work Mechanism
Amlodipine relaxes and widens tight arterial blood vessels by regulating calcium movement into muscle cells, lowering blood pressure and relieving chest angina.
Clinical Mechanism of Action (MoA)
Long-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker (CCB). Selectively inhibits transmembrane influx of extracellular calcium ions through voltage-gated L-type calcium channels into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac myocytes during depolarization, inducing relaxation of peripheral and coronary arterial vascular beds.
Dosage & Administration Guidelines
5-10 mg daily
2.5-5 mg daily (6-17 yrs)
2.5 mg daily initially
10 mg/day
No adjustment needed
Start at 2.5 mg daily
Side Effects & Safety Warnings
Peripheral edema, dizziness
Severe hypotension, worsening angina
Severe hypotension
Caution in severe aortic stenosis
Interactions (Drugs, Food & Alcohol)
Simvastatin, CYP3A4 inhibitors
N/A
May increase dizziness
Identified Clinical Drug Interactions for Amlodipine:
Elevated Simvastatin Blood Levels & Rhabdomyolysis Risk
Pregnancy & Breastfeeding Safety
Use if benefit outweighs risk
Compatible
Patient Counseling & Practical Advice
Report swelling of ankles/feet
Take as soon as remembered
Blood pressure, edema
Frequently Asked Questions
When to Seek Urgent Medical Attention
Severe dizziness, fainting (syncope), crushing chest pain, extreme breathlessness.
Content for Amlodipine was synthesized from standardized public health monographs, official pharmacopoeias, and health authorities:
- AHA / ACC — Hypertension Clinical Practice Guidelines
- European Society of Cardiology (ESC) — ESC/ESH Guidelines for the Management of Arterial Hypertension
The information provided on this website is for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.