8 Habits to Avoid or Change While Taking Amlodipine
Amlodipine is commonly used for high blood pressure and angina. Most people can take it safely for years, but certain habits can increase side effects or interfere with treatment.
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Don’t stop amlodipine suddenly. Even if you feel well, stopping it without medical advice can allow your blood pressure to rise.
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Don’t double up after a missed dose. If you forget a dose, follow the instructions from your medication leaflet or pharmacist; don’t take two doses together.
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Don’t regularly drink large amounts of alcohol. Alcohol can add to amlodipine’s blood-pressure-lowering effect and make dizziness or low blood pressure more likely.
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Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice if your prescriber or local medication guidance advises it. The NHS currently recommends avoiding them with amlodipine because of the potential for increased side effects.
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Don’t ignore persistent ankle or leg swelling. Swollen ankles, feet, and legs are a common side effect of amlodipine. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if swelling is troublesome or doesn’t settle.
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Don’t casually add supplements or herbal remedies. Some medicines and herbal products—including St John’s wort—can interact with amlodipine. Check with a pharmacist before starting something new.
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Don’t routinely self-treat pain with NSAIDs without checking first. Medicines such as ibuprofen and naproxen can interact with blood-pressure treatment and can themselves cause kidney and cardiovascular problems in some people. Ask a pharmacist or doctor if regular use is appropriate.
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Don’t ignore dizziness or faintness. Amlodipine can cause dizziness, and significant symptoms may indicate that your blood pressure is too low or that your treatment needs reviewing.
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One more important point
Don’t change your amlodipine dose based on a single home blood-pressure reading. Keep a record of your readings and discuss consistently high or unusually low values with your healthcare professional.
Amlodipine should be taken exactly as prescribed. If you develop severe dizziness, fainting, chest pain, difficulty breathing, or a serious allergic reaction, seek urgent medical attention.
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