8 Habits to Avoid or Change If You Take Amlodipine — And Why
Amlodipine is a commonly prescribed medicine for high blood pressure and angina. It is generally well tolerated, but certain habits and medication combinations can make side effects more likely or make blood-pressure control more difficult.
Here are eight things worth discussing with your doctor or pharmacist if you take amlodipine.
1. Don’t stop amlodipine suddenly without medical advice
Even when your blood pressure readings improve, that may be because the medicine is working. Stopping treatment without medical guidance can allow blood pressure to rise again.
If you want to stop or change your dose, discuss it with your prescriber first.
2. Don’t ignore persistent ankle or leg swelling
Swelling of the ankles and feet is a recognized side effect of amlodipine. It can become more noticeable at higher doses.
Don’t simply discontinue the medication yourself. If swelling is persistent or troublesome, tell your doctor; they can determine whether the dose or treatment needs adjusting.
3. Be careful with alcohol
Alcohol can add to the blood-pressure-lowering effect of amlodipine and may make dizziness or low blood pressure more likely. The NHS recommends limiting alcohol while taking amlodipine.
4. Don’t take new medicines without checking for interactions
Some medicines can increase amlodipine concentrations. These include certain strong CYP3A inhibitors, such as itraconazole and clarithromycin. Other blood-pressure medicines can also have additive effects.
Tell your pharmacist or doctor about prescription medicines, over-the-counter products and supplements before adding something new.
5. Don’t overlook dizziness
Amlodipine lowers blood pressure, and some people can experience dizziness, particularly when treatment is started or adjusted.
If you feel dizzy, sit or lie down until it passes and be cautious with driving or activities requiring alertness until you know how the medicine affects you.
6. Don’t assume herbal remedies are automatically safe
Some herbal products can interact with medicines. The NHS specifically lists St John’s wort among products that may interact with amlodipine.
Always mention supplements and herbal remedies when your medication is reviewed.
7. Don’t routinely exceed your prescribed dose
Taking extra amlodipine won’t safely bring down a high blood-pressure reading faster. Too much can cause excessive blood-pressure lowering and other complications.
Take the dose exactly as prescribed. If your readings remain high, contact your healthcare professional rather than taking an additional tablet.
8. Don’t ignore your other cardiovascular risk factors
Amlodipine lowers blood pressure, but it isn’t a substitute for the rest of your cardiovascular-care plan.
Maintaining a healthy weight, limiting excess sodium, staying physically active when appropriate, avoiding tobacco and following your clinician’s recommendations for cholesterol and diabetes can all be important.
