Amlodipine

What Is Amlodipine?

Amlodipine is a medication used to treat chest pain (angina) and high blood pressure. Angina occurs when the heart muscle doesn’t get enough oxygen, often due to narrowed or spasming arteries or physical exertion.
By helping relax blood vessels, Amlodipine reduces the heart’s workload and oxygen demand.
Generic Norvasc is also commonly prescribed to patients with coronary artery disease to help prevent angina episodes.

How Amlodipine Works

The active ingredient, amlodipine besylate, is a long-acting calcium channel blocker (dihydropyridine).
It works by:

• Blocking calcium from entering the smooth muscle cells of blood vessels

• Relaxing and widening the arteries—including the coronary arteries

• Lowering blood pressure

• Reducing strain on the heart and preventing spasms

This helps improve blood flow and makes it easier for the heart to pump without discomfort.

How to Store It

• Keep at room temperature

• Store in a tightly closed, dark container

• Protect from heat, moisture, and direct light

How to Take Amlodipine

• Take by mouth with water

• Can be taken with or without food

• Swallow the tablet whole—do not crush or chew

• Do not use the medication past its expiration date

Try to take it at the same time each day for the best effect.

Dosage

Your doctor will determine the right dose based on your condition and how you respond to treatment.
Typical adult dosage:

• 5 mg once daily to start

• Up to 10 mg once daily as a maintenance dose

Always follow your doctor’s instructions.

Missed Dose

• Take it as soon as you remember

• Skip it if your next dose is soon

• Do not double-dose

Overdose Warning

Seek emergency medical help if you suspect an overdose.
Symptoms may include:

• Severe dizziness

• Fainting

• Vomiting

Warnings & Precautions

Before using Amlodipine, inform your doctor if you have:

• Aortic stenosis

• Very low blood pressure

• Liver disease

• Any other ongoing medical conditions

Important notes:

• Avoid alcohol, as it may increase dizziness

• Avoid driving or operating heavy machinery if you feel lightheaded

• Tell your doctor about all medications, supplements, and herbal products

• Use caution during pregnancy or breastfeeding

Possible Side Effects

Common side effects:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness

• Flushing

• Swelling of the feet or ankles

These often improve as your body adjusts.
Seek medical help for more serious but less common effects:

• Fast or irregular heartbeat

• Fainting

• Worsening chest pain

• Signs of an allergic reaction (rash, swelling, trouble breathing)

Amlodipine for Angina & Hypertension

Amlodipine is widely used to reduce the frequency of angina episodes and to manage high blood pressure. Many patients notice improved comfort during activities such as exercise and an overall better quality of life.

Note: It is not meant to relieve sudden chest pain attacks—medications like nitroglycerin are used for that purpose.

When Should Amlodipine Not Be Used?

Do not use Amlodipine if you have:

• A known allergy to amlodipine

• Severe aortic stenosis

• Cardiogenic shock

• Unstable angina

How Long Should You Take It?

Amlodipine is typically used long-term for ongoing management of blood pressure and angina.
Do not stop taking it unless your doctor advises you to—even if you feel better.