Amlodipine is a long-acting calcium channel blocker of the dihydropyridine type, used to treat hypertension and coronary artery disease. While not typically recommended in heart failure, amlodipine may be used if other medications are not sufficient for treating high blood pressure or heart-related chest pain. It is taken by mouth and has an effect that lasts for at least a day.
Common side effects include swelling, feeling tired, abdominal pain, and nausea.
Serious side effects may include hypotension or heart attack. Whether the use is safe during pregnancy or breastfeeding is unclear. When used by people with liver problems, and in elderly individuals, doses should be reduced. Amlodipine works partly by increasing the size of arteries.
Synonyms
Norvasc