Who Should Take Amlodipine?
Amlodipine is recommended as a first-line treatment for hypertension, particularly in people over 55 and in Black and African-Caribbean patients, where ACE inhibitors are often less effective. It's also used for stable angina.
| Dose | Use |
|---|---|
| 5 mg once daily | Starting dose for hypertension |
| 10 mg once daily | Maximum dose — if 5 mg insufficient |
| 5–10 mg once daily | Stable angina (chest pain prevention) |
Common Side Effects
- Ankle/leg swelling (oedema) — affects up to 20% of patients
- Facial flushing (warmth, redness)
- Headache
- Palpitations
- Dizziness on standing (postural hypotension)
- Rarely: gum overgrowth (gingival hyperplasia)
Ankle Swelling TipAmlodipine-related ankle swelling is not dangerous (it's not caused by heart or kidney problems — it's due to local blood pooling). Elevating your legs and adding an ACE inhibitor can reduce this. Don't stop amlodipine without talking to your doctor.
Drug Interactions
| Drug | Interaction |
|---|---|
| Simvastatin | Amlodipine raises simvastatin levels — use ≤20 mg simvastatin |
| Ciclosporin | Amlodipine significantly raises ciclosporin levels |
| Clarithromycin | Increases amlodipine blood pressure-lowering effect |
| St John's Wort | Reduces amlodipine effectiveness |
Can I take amlodipine and lisinopril together?
Yes — this is one of the most common and effective blood pressure combinations. The ACE inhibitor also helps reduce amlodipine-related ankle swelling.
Does amlodipine affect heart rate?
Unlike beta-blockers, amlodipine does not significantly slow the heart rate. It's preferred when a patient has asthma or cold extremities.
Should I take amlodipine in the morning or evening?
Either — amlodipine has a 35–50 hour half-life, so timing is less critical than for short-acting drugs. Morning is most common.
Medical Disclaimer: This page is for general education only and does not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider.