Amlodipine (Besylate) Uses, Side Effects

Amlodipine (Besylate) is a calcium channel blocker. It lowers the blood pressure, relaxes heart muscles and dilates the heart blood vessels to prevent spasm. Amlodipine (Besylate) has been known since the late 1800s that calcium influx was necessary for the contraction of muscle. It inhibits the calcium influx across the cell membrane.

• It was approved by FDA in july1992 for clinical use. Its long duration of action allows once daily dosage.

In patients with high blood pressure your medicine works by relaxing blood vessels, so that blood passes through them more easily. In patients with angina Lodopin (Amlodipine Besylate) works by improving blood supply to the heart muscle which then receives more oxygen and as a result chest pain is prevented. Your medicine does not provide immediate relief of chest pain from angina.

Amlodipine (Besylate) is primarily indicated in conditions like:

• Angina pectoris.
• Essential hypertension.
• Hypertension.
• Prophylaxis of angina.
• Vasospastic angina.

• The severe or irreversible adverse effects of Amlodipine (Besylate), which give rise to further complications include: Peripheral edema Sinus bradycardia.
• Amlodipine (Besylate) produces potentially life-threatening effects which include Myocardial infarction which are responsible for the discontinuation of Amlodipine (Besylate) therapy.
• The signs and symptoms that are produced after the acute overdosage of Amlodipine (Besylate) include Hypotension, Bradyarrhythmias, Congestive heart failure, Conduction system Delay.
• The symptomatic adverse reactions produced by Amlodipine (Besylate) are more or less tolerable and if they become severe, they can be treated symptomatically, these include Flatulence, Dizziness, Vertigo, Headache, Drowsiness, Fatigue, Nausea, Vomiting, Diarrhea, Palpitation,
• Tremors, Constipation, Abdominal pain, Blurred
• vision, Peripheral edema
• Skin erythema, Facial flushing
• Hypotension, Coughing
• Flushing
• Syncope, Wheezing
• dysthesia.

Amlodipine should be used with caution in patients with heart, liver disease or if have any allergy. Limit intake of alcohol while taking this drug. This medication should be used with extreme caution during pregnancy.

Drug should not be given to Paediatrics, Pregnant Mothers, and Neonates. If prescribing authority justifies the benefits of the drug against the possible damages he/she should reevaluate them and consult the reference material and previous studies.

BUY NOW

1. What is amlodipine besylate used for?

• Amlodipine besylate is a calcium channel blocker used to treat:
  • Hypertension (high blood pressure)
  • Angina (chest pain) including chronic stable angina and vasospastic angina (Prinzmetal’s angina)
  • Coronary artery disease (CAD) without heart failure

2. How does amlodipine besylate work?

• Amlodipine besylate works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle. This action relaxes and dilates blood vessels, which helps to lower blood pressure and reduce the workload on the heart, thus relieving chest pain.

3. How should amlodipine besylate be taken?

• Amlodipine besylate is typically taken once daily, with or without food. It is important to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.

4. What are the common side effects of amlodipine besylate?

• Common side effects include:
  • Swelling of the ankles or feet (edema)
  • Headache
  • Dizziness
  • Flushing (warmth, redness, or tingly feeling)
  • Fatigue
  • Palpitations

5. What are the serious side effects of amlodipine besylate?

• Serious side effects are rare but can include:
  • Severe hypotension (very low blood pressure)
  • Worsening of chest pain or heart attack, especially when the dose is first started or increased
  • Allergic reactions (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, trouble breathing)

6. Can amlodipine besylate be taken with other medications?

• Amlodipine can interact with other medications. Some important interactions include:
  • Other blood pressure medications: Can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effects.
  • Simvastatin: Risk of increased levels of simvastatin, which can lead to muscle pain or weakness. The dose of simvastatin should not exceed 20 mg daily when taken with amlodipine.
  • CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole): Can increase the levels of amlodipine, leading to more pronounced effects and side effects.

7. What should I do if I miss a dose of amlodipine besylate?

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule. Do not double up on doses to make up for a missed dose.

8. Can amlodipine besylate be stopped abruptly?

• It is generally not recommended to stop amlodipine abruptly without consulting your healthcare provider, as this can lead to a sudden increase in blood pressure or worsening of angina. Always follow your healthcare provider’s guidance on how to stop the medication.

9. Can amlodipine besylate be used during pregnancy?

• Amlodipine should be used during pregnancy only if clearly needed and if the potential benefits outweigh the risks. It is important to discuss with your healthcare provider if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.

10. How long does it take for amlodipine besylate to work?

• The antihypertensive effects of amlodipine can be noticed within 24-48 hours, but the full effect may take a week or longer. For angina, it may take a few days to experience relief.

11. Can I drink alcohol while taking amlodipine besylate?

• Drinking alcohol can lower your blood pressure further and may increase some side effects of amlodipine. It’s best to discuss alcohol consumption with your healthcare provider.

12. Can amlodipine besylate cause weight gain?

• Weight gain is not a common side effect of amlodipine, but fluid retention (edema) can occur, which might appear as weight gain. If you notice significant changes in weight, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider.

13. Is it safe to take amlodipine besylate with grapefruit or grapefruit juice?

• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice can increase the level of amlodipine in your blood, potentially leading to more pronounced effects and side effects. It is generally advised to avoid grapefruit products while taking amlodipine.

14. Can I take over-the-counter pain relievers with amlodipine besylate?

• Some over-the-counter pain relievers, especially NSAIDs (e.g., ibuprofen, naproxen), can affect blood pressure control. It’s best to consult with your healthcare provider before taking any new medications, including over-the-counter drugs.

15. How should I store amlodipine besylate?

• Store amlodipine at room temperature, away from moisture, heat, and light. Keep it out of reach of children and pets.

Disclaimer

The information provided on this platform is for general informational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health providers with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this platform.