Amlodipine (am-LOE-di-peen)

Lowers high blood pressure and relieves chronic stable angina (chest pain). This medicine is a calcium channel blocker.

Brand Name(s):

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid

• Take your medicine as directed. Your dose may need to be changed several times to find what works best for you. Take this medicine at the same time each day.
• Missed dose: Take a dose as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, wait until then and take a regular dose. Do not take extra medicine to make up for a missed dose.
• Store this medicine in the refrigerator. Do not freeze.

Drugs and Foods to Avoid:

Ask your doctor or pharmacist before using any other medicine, including over-the-counter medicines, vitamins, and herbal products.

• Some medicines can affect how amlodipine works. Tell your doctor if you are using clarithromycin, cyclosporine, diltiazem, erythromycin, itraconazole, simvastatin, or tacrolimus.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, heart disease (including aortic stenosis), or heart or blood vessel disease.
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Low blood pressure
  • Worsening chest pain
  • Increased risk of heart attack
• This medicine could lower your blood pressure too much, especially when you first use it or if you are dehydrated. Stand or sit up slowly if you feel lightheaded or dizzy.
• Do not stop using this medicine without asking your doctor, even if you feel well. This medicine will not cure your high blood pressure, but it will help keep it in normal range. You may have to take blood pressure medicine for the rest of your life.
• Your doctor will do lab tests at regular visits to check on the effects of this medicine. Keep all appointments.
• Keep all medicine out of the reach of children. Never share your medicine with anyone.

Possible Side Effects While Using This Medicine:

Call your doctor right away if you notice any of these side effects:

• Allergic reaction: Itching or hives, swelling in your face or hands, swelling or tingling in your mouth or throat, chest tightness, trouble breathing
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
• New or worsening chest pain
• Swelling in your hands, ankles, or legs
• Trouble breathing, nausea, unusual sweating

If you notice other side effects that you think are caused by this medicine, tell your doctor

Call your doctor for medical advice about side effects. You may report side effects to FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088