Typically supplied as the following:
Immediate Release Oral Tablet: 2 MG,5 MG, 10 MG
Oral Suspension (Katerzia): 1 MG/ ML
Amlodipine (Norvasc) belongs to the class of medicines commonly referred to as Calcium Channel Blockers (dihydropyridine). It works primarily by blocking the actions of calcium ion on the smooth muscles of the blood vessels and the heart. These muscles are able to contract effectively through the actions or movement of calcium ions across the cells. When this action is inhibited, as in the case of amlodipine, the consequent effect is the reduction in the resistance within the peripheral blood vessels (those that are away from the heart); they become dilated, which in turn leads to a reduction in the blood pressure.
High blood pressure literally translates to a higher than normal pressure inside the blood vessels. It is a very common and dangerous health condition, that when left untreated may result in various degrees of heart disease, stroke, and death. According the United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1 out of every 3 U.S adults (approximately 75 million people) has high blood pressure. Depending on the underlying health conditions or comorbidities, physicians generally work with patient to reach a set blood pressure goal (typically <140 (SBP) mmHg / 90 (DBP) mmHg).
As a part of a comprehensive treatment plan that usually includes non-drug approaches, amlodipine is typically prescribed by physicians for the treatment of hypertension. It is also often prescribed alone or in combination with other anti-angina agents for the symptomatic treatment of chronic stable angina. The common initial or starting dose for amlodipine is 5 mg. This is often titrated slowly to achieve a desired blood pressure goal.
When is a good time to take my Amlodipine?
You may take your medicine at any time of the day without regards to food. It may be beneficial to take it with a meal at same time every day, in order to remember to take it. According to the prescribing information, if you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it has been 12 hours since your last dose, wait until the next regular scheduled time before taking another dose.
I am looking into using CBD oil for a current condition. Does it interact with Amlodipine?
CBD oil may potentially interact with your amlodipine and other prescription medications. Discuss with your physician or pharmacist before starting CBD oil. Click lets chat to get connected with one of our pharmacist.
I have just been prescribed Simvastatin, and I am currently on Amlodipine for blood pressure control. Should I be worried about interaction?
The prescribing information for simvastatin recommends a maximum daily dose of 20 mg for simvastatin when taking in combination with amlodipine. Amlodipine is a moderate inhibitor of the 3A4 subgroup of the liver enzyme collectively referred to as cytochrome P450. This isoform of the P450 enzyme play a key role in the metabolism of many prescription drugs including simvastatin. Drugs like amlodipine which inhibit this metabolic pathway to some degree can raise the levels of simvastatin in the body, consequently increasing the risk of muscle damage (manifests as muscle pain and weakness).
When can I stop taking my Amlodipine? I now feel great!
High blood pressure does not always present with clinical symptoms. Thus, it is always important to routinely monitor your blood pressure, even while you are on a blood pressure lowering medication like amlodipine. You should always consult with your doctor or pharmacist before stopping your prescription medications. They should also be aware when you start or stop an over –the-counter medication.
Have more questions? Click Let's Chat to be connected with one of our pharmacists.
2020.
References:
Amlodipine Besylate tablet, [prescribing information]. East Windsor, NJ: Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc. 2020
ACC/AHA/AAPA/ABC/ACPM/AGS/APhA/ASH/ASPC/NMA/PCNA Guideline for the Prevention, Detection, Evaluation, and Management of High Blood Pressure in Adults: A Report of the American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association Task Force on Clinical Practice Guidelines. American Heart Association Website. Accessed Jan 27, 2020
Hypertension. United States Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Website. Accessed Jan 18, 2020
Mahajan R. Joint National Committee 8 report: How it differ from JNC 7. Int J Appl Basic Med Res. 2014;4(2):61–62. doi:10.4103/2229-516X.136773
Simvastatin tablet, film coated, [prescribing information]. East Windsor, NJ: Aurobindo Pharma USA, Inc.2020
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