Amlodipine

Amlodipine is a tablet that your doctor might prescribe if you have high blood pressure or chest pain due to heart disease. The medical terms for these conditions are hypertension and angina. If hypertension isn't treated, it can harm major organs and raise your risk of serious health issues, such as heart disease. This could result in heart attacks and strokes, which are very serious.

Amlodipine is available in several chemical forms, such as amlodipine besilate, amlodipine maleate, and amlodipine mesylate. However, they all work in the same way. Amlodipine is a type of medication known as a calcium channel blocker or calcium antagonist.

This medication is the generic form of Istin, so it's usually a bit more affordable. Amlodipine is also used in combination treatments, such as Exforge and Sevikar.

Calcium channel blockers, such as amlodipine, help manage high blood pressure by stopping calcium from entering the cells in your arteries and heart. By blocking calcium, your blood vessels can relax and expand, making it easier for your heart to pump, which in turn reduces your blood pressure.

Angina occurs when blood flow to the heart is limited. Calcium antagonists help manage angina by boosting the blood supply to the heart. Amlodipine can be used to prevent chest pain, but it won't stop it once it begins. Some calcium channel blockers can slow your heart rate, which also helps to lower blood pressure and ease chest pain.

Some research suggests that calcium channel blockers, such as Amlodipine, may be more effective than other hypertension treatments in lowering the risk of stroke.

Amlodipine is available in 5mg and 10mg tablets. The dose you take will depend on your age (older people are often given a lower dose), the severity of your high blood pressure or angina, and your overall health, including any liver or kidney issues. Typically, patients begin with a 5mg tablet once a day.

Studies indicate that taking daily doses of 5-10mg of amlodipine significantly lowers both systolic and diastolic blood pressure. This happens without noticeably affecting heart rate or reducing effectiveness compared to a higher dose.

Amlodipine is generally well-tolerated, with only a small number of patients experiencing side effects, which are usually mild or moderate. These side effects might lessen as you continue with the treatment. However, if you experience any side effects that are troublesome, it's a good idea to inform your prescriber. They can discuss alternative options with you.