Amlodipine 10mg tablets

Amlodipine tablet is a prescription medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and certain types of angina (chest pain). It belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers, which work by relaxing the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily, and reducing the workload on the heart.

Usage
Hypertension: Amlodipine is effective in lowering high blood pressure, which helps prevent serious complications such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney problems.
Angina: It is also used to manage chronic stable angina and vasospastic angina (Prinzmetal’s angina), improving exercise tolerance and decreasing the frequency of angina attacks.
Other Conditions: Amlodipine may be prescribed for other cardiovascular conditions as determined by a healthcare provider.
Dosage
Starting Dose: The typical starting dose for adults is 5 mg once daily. Depending on the individual’s response, the doctor may adjust the dosage.
Maintenance Dose: The usual maintenance dose ranges from 5 mg to 10 mg once daily.
Elderly Patients: For elderly patients or those with liver issues, a lower starting dose of 2.5 mg may be recommended.
Children: Amlodipine can be prescribed for children aged 6 years and older with hypertension, with dosing based on weight and clinical response.
Administration
Amlodipine tablets should be taken orally, with or without food. It is important to take the medication at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
Precautions
Consult a Doctor: Always consult a healthcare professional before starting Amlodipine, especially if you have a history of heart disease, liver impairment, or are pregnant or breastfeeding.
Side Effects: Common side effects may include swelling of the ankles or feet, dizziness, flushing, and fatigue. Serious side effects should be reported to a healthcare provider immediately.
Conclusion
Amlodipine is a widely used medication for managing hypertension and angina, helping to improve cardiovascular health. Adhering to the prescribed dosage and regularly consulting with a healthcare provider is essential for optimal treatment outcomes.

Amlodipine can interact with several medications, which may affect its effectiveness or increase the risk of side effects. Here are some potential drug interactions:

### 1. **Other Antihypertensives**
– **Beta-blockers**: May enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect, which could lead to hypotension.
– **Diuretics**: Combining with diuretics can lead to an additive effect on blood pressure.

### 2. **CYP3A4 Inhibitors**
– **Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, and Other Azole Antifungals**: These can increase Amlodipine levels, leading to an increased risk of side effects.
– **Macrolide Antibiotics**: Such as Erythromycin and Clarithromycin can also increase Amlodipine levels.

### 3. **CYP3A4 Inducers**
– **Rifampicin**: May decrease Amlodipine levels, reducing its effectiveness.
– **St. John’s Wort**: Can also reduce Amlodipine effectiveness.

### 4. **Grapefruit Juice**
– Consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice can increase Amlodipine blood levels and enhance its effects, leading to an increased risk of side effects.

### 5. **Anticonvulsants**
– **Carbamazepine and Phenytoin**: May reduce the effectiveness of Amlodipine.

### 6. **Simvastatin**
– High doses of Simvastatin (greater than 20 mg) in conjunction with Amlodipine can increase the risk of muscle-related side effects.

### 7. **Nitrates**
– When used together with nitrates, Amlodipine can enhance the effects on lowering blood pressure, which may lead to hypotension.

### **Recommendations**
– Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
– Regular monitoring may be required when starting or stopping any medications that interact with Amlodipine.
– Consult your doctor or pharmacist for personalized advice regarding potential interactions.

By being aware of these interactions, you can help ensure safe and effective use of Amlodipine.