amlodipine
a calcium channel blocker (CALCIUM ANTAGONIST) used to treat hypertension and angina pectoris. It is administered by mouth. Possible side-effects include headache, dizziness, fatigue, nausea, and fluid retention.
Amlodipine is used to treat high blood pressure and certain types of angina (chest pain) and coronary artery disease (narrowing of the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart). Amlodipine is in a class of medications called calcium channel blockers. It lowers blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart does not have to pump as hard. It controls chest pain by increasing the supply of blood to the heart. If taken regularly, amlodipine controls chest pain, but it does not stop chest pain once it starts. Your doctor may prescribe a different medication to take when you have chest pain. Untreated high blood pressure can damage the brain, heart, blood vessels, kidneys and other parts of the body. This damage may cause heart disease, a heart attack, stroke, kidney failure, loss of vision, and other problems. Along with medication, making the following changes will also help to control your blood pressure: eating a diet low in fat and salt, maintaining a healthy weight, exercising at least 30 minutes most days, not smoking, and using alcohol in moderation.
Full drug information on MedlinePlus →This is general information, not medical advice. Pregnancy and breastfeeding decisions should always be made with your healthcare provider.
Can taking amlodipine affect fertility or make it harder to get pregnant?
Studies have not been done to see if amlodipine can make it harder to get pregnant. If you have questions or concerns about fertility while taking amlodipine, it is best to discuss them with your healthcare provider.
Does taking amlodipine increase the risk of miscarriage?
Miscarriage can occur in any pregnancy for many reasons, and studies have not specifically looked at whether amlodipine increases that chance. One study of 78 people who took calcium channel blockers as a group did not find a higher chance of miscarriage. Your healthcare provider can help you weigh this information in the context of your own situation.
Does taking amlodipine increase the risk of birth defects?
The fact sheet notes that information on amlodipine use in pregnancy is very limited, and about 3 out of 100 babies are born with a birth defect in the general population. Most available information on calcium channel blockers as a group does not suggest an increased chance of birth defects. Decisions about using amlodipine in pregnancy should be made together with your healthcare provider.
Can taking amlodipine during pregnancy cause other pregnancy-related complications?
One study comparing amlodipine to nifedipine found no difference in pregnancy-related problems such as c-section, preterm delivery, placental abruption, or growth restriction, and data on calcium channel blockers as a group does not suggest an increased chance of pregnancy complications. It is also noted that uncontrolled high blood pressure itself has been associated with growth restriction and a higher chance of preterm delivery. Your healthcare provider can help you balance these considerations.
Can taking amlodipine during pregnancy affect the child's brain development, learning, or behavior?
The fact sheet states that studies have not been done to see if amlodipine can increase the chance of behavior or learning issues for the child. Because this question has not been studied, any concerns are best discussed with your healthcare provider.
Is it safe to breastfeed while taking amlodipine?
Information on amlodipine use during breastfeeding is limited, but the amount in milk is usually low and side effects in breastfed infants have not been reported. The product label recommends that people who are breastfeeding not use this medication, though the benefits of treatment and of breastfeeding may outweigh possible risks in some situations. Your healthcare provider can talk with you about what approach is best for you and your baby.
Source: National Library of Medicine
amlodipine