Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine type of calcium-channel blocker that prevents the influx of calcium into vascular muscle. The overall effect is to decrease the vascular tone of the vessels to lower blood pressure. Amlodipine does not affect heart rate or cardiac output. Amlodipine does not have a significant interaction with other cardiovascular drugs such as digoxin or warfarin, making it safer than other anti-hypertensives. Overall amlodipine is well-tolerated by the majority of patients.
Cardiac Side Effects
Amlodipine has been implicated in causing myocardial infarctions or heart attacks in some patients. Angina or chest pain can also be exacerbated by amlodipine. Heart palpitations or the sensation that the heart is beating too fast or beating out of one's chest is also a reported side effect. Severe hypotension is also a side effect of amlodipine.
Peripheral Edema
A well known side effect of amlodipine is peripheral edema or swelling. This lower extremity swelling can often be asymmetric.
Allergic Reactions
As with any medication, it is possible for an allergy to amlodipine ranging from hives or urticaria to anaphylaxis. Anaphylaxis is a condition where a patient may develop difficulty breathing.
Gastrointestinal Side Effects
Constipation in 10 percent of individuals according to "Lippincott's Illustrated Reviews: Pharmacology." Hepatitis and nausea are also side effects of amlodipine.
Skin/Dermatologic Side Effects
Erythema multiforme is a skin rash that can occur with amlodipine use. Skin flushing or redness has also been reported with amlodipine use.
Other Side Effects
Other reported side effects include headache, dizziness and fatigue.
References
- Epocrates: Amlodipine
- "Lippincott's Illustrated Reviews: Pharmacology (3rd ed)"; Dr Richard Howland, Dr Mary Mycek; 2006.
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