Brand names: Norvasc, Istin
Uses: Amlodipine is used to treat high blood pressure and angina (chest pain).
Indications: Amlodipine is indicated for the treatment of hypertension, to lower blood pressure. Lowering blood pressure may reduce risk for stroke, heart attack, and kidney problems.
Contraindications: Amlodipine is contraindicated in patients with severe liver disease, known hypersensitivity to amlodipine, and other calcium channel blockers.
Mode of Action: Amlodipine blocks the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. This relaxes the blood vessels, allowing them to become wider and reducing the pressure of blood against the walls of the vessels.
Side Effects: Common side effects of amlodipine include headache, dizziness, swelling of the legs and ankles, nausea, and fatigue. Rare side effects include heart palpitations, changes in heart rate, chest pain, and rash.
