In this blog we have discussed how to prevent amlodipine side effects
Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker. It affects the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. This way, it widens the blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. Therefore it is used in hypertension.
High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If this continues for a long time, then the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, which might result in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure.
So lowering blood pressure can reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks. And thats when amlodipine comes into the picture for the treatment of hypertension, chest pain and other conditions caused by coronary artery disease.
Like many other drugs, amlodipine too can cause mild to serious side effects. The list mentioned below are some of the most common side effects and it does not include all the possible side effects.
Table of Contents
Common side effects of Amlodipine:
- Swelling in your feet or ankles
- Difficult in breathing
- dizziness, lightheadedness
- fast, irregular, pounding, or racing heartbeat or pulse
- feeling of warmth
- redness of the face, neck, arms, and occasionally, upper chest
- Chest tightness
Mild side-effects :
- Stomach pain
- Nausea
- Joint pain
- Muscle problems, such as stiffness or tremor
- Irregular or fast heartbeat
- Lowered heart rate
- Fatigue
- Dizziness
- Extreme drowsiness or sleepiness
- Constipation
- Weight gain
- Edema
- Anxiety
- Erectile dysfunction (ED)
- Flushing (redness of the face, neck, arms and occasionally upper chest)
- Peripheral neuropathy
Serious side effects:
These side-effects of amlodipine are not that common. So, if you think you are experiencing any of these then call your doctor right away.
- Angina (a type of chest pain) that’s worse than usual
- Low blood pressure
- Heart attack
- Allergic reaction.
Some over-the-counter medicines, such as nasal decongestants, can also increase blood pressure and interact with blood pressure medicines. Inform your doctor about any medicines or supplements you are already taking.
How to prevent Amlodipine side effects?
How to avoid Amlodipine induced dizziness?
Avoid getting up too fast from a sitting or lying position, or you may feel dizzy. So get up slow and steady to prevent a fall. Otherwise, you can do one thing, First sit for a few moments before standing to prevent the dizziness.
Dizziness, lightheadedness, or fainting may also occur if you exercise or if the weather is hot. Heavy sweating can cause loss of too much water and result in low blood pressure. Therefore take extra care during exercise or hot weather.
Why you should not stop amlodipine suddenly?
Do not suddenly stop using Amlodipine if you have been taking this medicine regularly for several weeks. Stopping suddenly may cause chest pain or high blood pressure to come back or get worse. The best way is to check with your doctor and then reduce it gradually before stopping completely.
How to avoid Amlodipine induced headache?
When you start taking Amlodipine you may get a headache, and that is normal. This headache lasts for a short time in the beginning. This should become less noticeable after you have taken this medicine for a while. If this effect continues, or if the headaches are severe, check with your doctor.
How to avoid Amlodipine induced gum swelling & gum bleeding?
Sometimes you may find that your gum has swelling and the swelling is increasing day by day. In medical term it is called as gingival hyperplasia. If you have this problem then consult your doctor. Your doctor may switch you to an alternative medicine.
Some patients may have tenderness, swelling, or bleeding gums soon after starting Amlodipine. So Brush and floss your teeth carefully and regularly. Massaging your gums may help prevent this.
Regular dental follow up may help you maintain oral hygiene.
Interaction with other medicines:
Also, Do not take any other prescription or nonprescription (over-the-counter) medicines unless they have been discussed with your doctor. As some of this medicine might not be suitable for you or may cause any drug reaction with amlodipine.
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