Health Library

Amlodipine (By mouth)

Amlodipine (am-LOE-di-peen)

Treats high blood pressure and angina (chest pain). This medicine is a calcium channel blocker.

Brand Name(s):

Katerzia, Norliqva, Norvasc

When This Medicine Should Not Be Used:

How to Use This Medicine:

Liquid, Tablet, Dissolving Tablet

• 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.
• Oral liquid: Measure the oral liquid medicine with a marked measuring spoon, oral syringe, or medicine cup.
• Read and follow the patient instructions that come with this medicine. Talk to your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions.
• 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 the medicine in a closed container at room temperature, away from heat, moisture, and direct light. Store the oral liquid 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 also using clarithromycin, cyclosporine, diltiazem, itraconazole, ritonavir, sildenafil, simvastatin, or tacrolimus.

Warnings While Using This Medicine:

• Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have liver disease, or heart or blood vessel disease (including coronary artery disease, aortic stenosis).
• This medicine may cause the following problems:
  • Low blood pressure
  • Worsening chest pain
  • Increased risk of heart attack
  • Liver problems
• This medicine may make you dizzy, drowsy, or lightheaded. Stand or sit up slowly if you feel lightheaded or dizzy. Do not drive or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how this medicine affects you.
• Do not stop using this medicine suddenly without asking your doctor, even if you feel well.
• 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
• Dark urine or pale stools, nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, stomach pain, yellow skin or eyes
• Fast, pounding, or uneven heartbeat
• Lightheadedness, dizziness, fainting
• New or worsening chest pain, trouble breathing, unusual sweating
• Rapid weight gain, swelling in your hands, ankles, or feet

If you notice these less serious side effects, talk with your doctor:

• Warmth or redness in your face, neck, arms, or upper chest

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

Last Updated: 9/6/2024