Amlodipine (Besylate) - Indications, dose, side effects ...

Amlodipine besylate is a medication primarily used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain (angina). It belongs to a class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. Amlodipine works by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and reducing the workload on the heart.

Strong calcium channel blocker amlodipine is used to treat the following conditions:

  • Symptomatic chronic stable angina
  • Treatment of confirmed or suspected vasospastic angina
  • Treatment of hypertension.
  • Raynaud's phenomenon

Amlodipine Dose in Adults 

Amlodipine dose in treatment of angina:

For chronic stable angina:

  • A common starting dose of amlodipine is 5 to 10 milligrams once a day.

Note:

  • If you have chronic stable angina and are already taking a beta-blocker but still have symptoms, your doctor may add amlodipine.
  • If you have contraindications or bad side effects with beta-blockers, amlodipine can be used as an alternative therapy.

For vasospastic angina, which involves spasms in the blood vessels, amlodipine can be used alone or with nitrates.

  • The typical dose is 5 to 10 milligrams once daily.

Amlodipine dose in Hypertension:  

  • The typical starting dose of amlodipine is 2.5 to 5 milligrams once a day.
  • Your doctor will adjust the dose based on how your body responds, usually every 1 to 2 weeks, up to a maximum of 10 milligrams per day.
  • It's important to note that higher doses may not provide additional benefit and could lead to more side effects.

Note:

  • If your blood pressure is significantly higher than the goal by 20/10 mm Hg or more, your doctor may combine amlodipine with another medication like an ACE inhibitor, ARB, or thiazide diuretic.
  • If your blood pressure is just slightly above the goal, your doctor might start you on a single medication first (monotherapy), but many patients eventually need more than one medication (combination therapy).

Amlodipine dose in Raynaud phenomenon:  

  • The typical starting dose is 5 milligrams once a day.
  • Your doctor may adjust the dose gradually based on how you respond to the medication and how well you tolerate it.
  • The maximum recommended dose is 20 milligrams per day.

Amlodipine Dose in Children

Amlodipine dose in children with Hypertension:

Children aged 1 to 5 years:

  • Limited data are available, but there's some indication that younger children may need higher doses per kilogram of body weight compared to older children.
  • Initial doses in this age group have ranged from 0.05 to 0.1 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day.
  • However, these doses are subject to adjustment based on individual response.

Children and adolescents aged 6 to 17 years:

  • The typical starting dose is 2.5 to 5 milligrams once daily.
  • Doses higher than 5 milligrams per day have not been fully studied.
  • In a study involving children aged 6 to 16 years, both 2.5 milligrams and 5 milligrams once daily doses were effective in reducing systolic blood pressure.
  • The recommended initial dose is 0.06 milligrams per kilogram of body weight per day, up to a maximum of 0.34 milligrams per kilogram per day (not exceeding 10 milligrams total per day).

In both age groups, the dose may be adjusted based on the individual's response and tolerability.

Pregnancy Risk factor C

  • Amlodipine can pass from a pregnant person to their baby.
  • Studies have shown that the amount of amlodipine in the baby's bloodstream at birth is about one-third of what's in the mother's blood.
  • In some cases, the levels in newborns were too low to even measure within 48 hours of birth.
  • There isn't a lot of information about using amlodipine during pregnancy, but some studies suggest that it might not be the best option for treating high blood pressure in pregnant people because of changes in how the body processes drugs during pregnancy.
  • It's important to treat high blood pressure during pregnancy because it can cause problems for both the baby and the mother, but doctors usually prefer other medications over amlodipine in pregnant patients.

Amlodipine uses during breastfeeding

  • Amlodipine can pass into breast milk, but the amount is relatively low compared to the mother's dose.
  • Studies have shown that the relative amount of amlodipine in breast milk, compared to the mother's weight-adjusted dose, is about 4.18%, with some variability.
  • This falls within the acceptable range for breastfeeding, which is typically considered safe when the relative infant dose is below 10%.
  • Even though the maximum relative infant dose calculated was 15.2%, adverse events were not observed in breastfed infants in the study.
  • This suggests that breastfeeding while taking amlodipine is generally considered safe for both the mother and the baby.

Amlodipine Dose in Renal Disease:

  • For individuals with end-stage renal disease (ESRD) undergoing dialysis, such as hemodialysis or peritoneal dialysis, dosage adjustment of amlodipine is not necessary.
  • Both hemodialysis and peritoneal dialysis do not significantly increase the elimination of amlodipine from the body.
  • Therefore, there is no need for a supplemental dose of amlodipine in these patients.

Amlodipine Dose in Liver Disease:

  • For chronic stable angina and vasospastic angina, the typical starting dose of amlodipine is 5 milligrams once a day when taken orally. However, in patients with severe liver problems, the dose should be adjusted carefully, starting at the same 5-milligram dose but titrating slowly as needed.
  • For hypertension, the usual starting dose is 2.5 milligrams once daily when taken orally. Again, in patients with severe liver impairment, the dose should be titrated slowly and cautiously.

Common side effects of amlodipine:

  • Cardiovascular:
    • Peripheral edema
  • Respiratory:
    • Pulmonary edema
  • Cardiovascular:
    • Palpitations and flushing
  • Central nervous system:
  • Dermatologic:
    • Pruritus and skin rash
  • Gastrointestinal:
    • Nausea, constipation and abdominal pain
  • Neuromuscular & skeletal:
    • Muscle cramps and weakness.
  • Respiratory:
    • Dyspnea

Contraindications to Amlodipine include:

  • In both Canadian and US labeling, amlodipine is contraindicated if there's a known hypersensitivity to amlodipine itself or any component of the medication.
  • In Canadian labeling, additional contraindications include hypersensitivity to other dihydropyridines, severe hypotension (when systolic blood pressure is less than 90 mm Hg), and breastfeeding.
  • It's important to adhere to these contraindications to prevent adverse reactions and ensure safe use of the medication.
  • If any hypersensitivity reactions or severe hypotension occur, medical attention should be sought promptly.

Warnings and Precautions

Angina and Myocardial infarction:

  • When starting or adjusting the dosage of dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers, including amlodipine, there's a risk of increased angina or myocardial infarction (MI).
  • This can happen due to reflex tachycardia, which means the heart rate increases in response to the medication, potentially leading to more angina or MI episodes, especially in patients with obstructive coronary disease.
  • This risk is higher when dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers are used without concurrent beta-blockade.

Hypotension:

  • Symptomatic hypotension, where a person experiences low blood pressure with symptoms like dizziness or fainting, can happen with amlodipine.
  • However, it's unlikely to occur immediately after starting the medication because amlodipine takes time to have its full effect.
  • When using amlodipine to lower blood pressure, the rate at which blood pressure is reduced should be tailored to the individual's clinical needs.
  • This means adjusting the dose gradually and monitoring the patient's response closely to avoid excessive drops in blood pressure that could lead to symptoms.

Peripheral edema

  • Peripheral edema, swelling in the arms, legs, or ankles, is the most common side effect of amlodipine.
  • It typically appears within 2 to 3 weeks after starting the medication.
  • This swelling occurs because amlodipine relaxes blood vessels, allowing fluid to leak into surrounding tissues.
  • While peripheral edema can be uncomfortable, it's usually not serious.

Aortic stenosis and hypertrophic cardiomyopathy:

  • In patients with severe aortic stenosis, extreme caution should be exercised when using amlodipine.
  • Aortic stenosis is a condition where the heart's aortic valve is narrowed, restricting blood flow from the heart to the body.
  • Amlodipine may reduce coronary perfusion, which means it could decrease blood flow to the coronary arteries that supply the heart muscle.
  • This reduction in blood flow could lead to myocardial ischemia, a condition where the heart muscle doesn't receive enough oxygen-rich blood.
  • Therefore, patients with severe aortic stenosis should be closely monitored if prescribed amlodipine, and alternative treatment options may be considered.

Heart failure:

  • In patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF), calcium channel blockers are generally avoided due to concerns about worsening heart function.
  • However, amlodipine may be considered for managing hypertension or ischemic heart disease in these patients.

Hepatic impairment:

  • In patients with hepatic impairment (liver problems), amlodipine should be used cautiously.
  • Depending on the severity of the impairment, a lower starting dose may be necessary.
  • Additionally, in patients with severe hepatic impairment, the dose should be titrated slowly and carefully.
  • This cautious approach helps to ensure that the medication is well tolerated and effective while minimizing the risk of adverse effects.

Hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) with outflow tract obstruction:

  • In patients with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and outflow tract obstruction, amlodipine should be used cautiously.
  • This caution is due to the fact that amlodipine can reduce afterload, potentially exacerbating symptoms associated with this condition.
  • HCM involves thickening of the heart muscle, particularly the septum between the heart chambers, which can lead to obstruction of blood flow out of the heart.
  • By reducing afterload, amlodipine may inadvertently increase the obstruction and worsen symptoms in these patients.
  • Therefore, careful monitoring and consideration of alternative treatment options may be necessary in individuals with HCM and outflow tract obstruction who require treatment for conditions like hypertension or angina.

Amlodipine: Drug Interaction

Note: Drug Interaction Categories:

  • Risk Factor C: Monitor When Using Combination
  • Risk Factor D: Consider Treatment Modification
  • Risk Factor X: Avoid Concomitant Use

Risk Factor C (Monitor therapy).

Alfuzosin

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

Alpha1-Blockers

May intensify calcium channel blockers' hypotensive effects.

Amphetamines

May lessen the effects of antihypertensive medications in treating hypertension.

Antipsychotic Agents, Second Generation (Atypical)

Antipsychotic drugs can have a greater hypotensive effect when blood pressure-lowering medications are used (Second Gen [Atypical]).

Aprepitant

High risk of inhibitors increasing serum CYP3A4 substrate concentrations. It's crucial to keep an eye out for any heightened pharmacologic effects of aripiprazole. Depending on the indication and/or concurrent medication, aripiprazole dosage modifications may be required. Consult the interaction monograph in its entirety for more details.

ARIPiprazole

Weak CYP3A4 Inhibitors may raise serum levels of ARIPiprazole.

Atosiban

Calcium channel blockers may make atosiban's toxic/unwanted effects worse. The likelihood of developing pulmonary edoema or dyspnea may rise.

Barbiturates

Metabolism may be boosted by calcium channel blockers. Monitoring: When calcium channel blockers are administered in conjunction with barbiturate medication, look for any diminished therapeutic effects. It could be necessary to change the dosage of calcium channel blockers. The concurrent use of phenobarbital and nimodipine is not recommended.

Barbiturates

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

Benperidol

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

Bosentan

Could decrease serum levels of CYP3A4 substrates (High Risk with Inducers).

Brigatinib

May lessen the effects of antihypertensive medications in treating hypertension. The bradycardic effects of antihypertensive medications may be exacerbated by brutinib.

Brimonidine (Topical)

Might increase the hypotensive effects of Blood Pressure Lowering Agents.

Calcium Channel Blockers (Nondihydropyridine)

Dihydropyridine, a calcium channel blocker, may increase the hypotensive effects of calcium channel blockers (Nondihydropyridine). Nondihydropyridine may raise the serum level of calcium channel blockers (Dihydropyridine).

Calcium Salts

The therapeutic benefits of calcium channel blockers can be lessened as a result.

Clofazimine

High likelihood that inhibitors will raise serum concentrations of CYP3A4 substrates

Clopidogrel

Calcium channel blockers may reduce the therapeutic effects of clopidogrel.

CycloSPORINE Systemic

Dihydropyridine, a calcium channel blocker, may raise the serum level of CycloSPORINE Systemic. The serum levels of calcium channel blockers (Dihydropyridine) may increase after using CycloSPORINE Systemic.

Moderate CYP3A4 Inducers

Could decrease serum levels of CYP3A4 substrates (High Risk with Inducers).

Moderate CYP3A4 inhibitors

May raise serum levels of amelodipine

Strong CYP3A4 inhibitors

May increase serum AmLODIPine concentrations

Dapoxetine

May intensify calcium channel blockers' orthostatic hypotensive effects.

Deferasirox

Could decrease serum levels of CYP3A4 substrates (High Risk with Inducers).

Dexmethylphenidate

Antihypertensive agents may have a less therapeutic effect.

Diazoxide

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

Dofetilide

CYP3A4 inhibitors could increase the amount of dofetilide (Weak).

DULoxetine

By reducing blood pressure, DULoxetine may exacerbate hypotension.

Duvelisib

High likelihood that inhibitors will raise serum concentrations of CYP3A4 substrates

Efavirenz

Decrease serum calcium channel blockers

Flibanserin

CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in an increase in flibanserin (Weak).

Fluconazole

Serum calcium channel blockers may rise.

Fosaprepitant

High likelihood that inhibitors will raise serum concentrations of CYP3A4 substrates

Fosnetupitant

High risk of Inhibitors causing an increase in serum CYP3A4 Substrates concentrations

Herbs (Hypertensive Properties)

May lessen the effects of antihypertensive medications in treating hypertension.

Herbs (Hypotensive properties)

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

Hypotension-Associated Agents

The hypotensive action of hypotension-associated agents may be strengthened by blood pressure lowering medications.

Ivosidenib

Could lower serum concentrations of CYP3A4 substrates (High Risk with Inducers).

Larotrectinib

High likelihood that inhibitors will raise serum concentrations of CYP3A4 substrates

Levodopa-Containing Products

Levodopa-Containing Products' hypotensive effects may be amplified by blood pressure-lowering medications.

Lormetazepam

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

Lovastatin

AmLODIPine may raise the serum levels of lovastatin.

Magnesium Salts

Magnesium salts can have more hazardous or harmful effects when taken with calcium channel blockers. The hypotensive effects of calcium channel blockers can be enhanced by magnesium salts.

Melatonin

Dihydropyridine, a calcium channel blocker, may have less antihypertensive effects.

Methylphenidate

May lessen the effects of antihypertensive medications in treating hypertension.

Molsidomine

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

Naftopidil

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

Netupitant

High likelihood that inhibitors will raise serum concentrations of CYP3A4 substrates

Neuromuscular-Blocking Agents (Nondepolarizing)

The neuromuscular-blocking impact of neuromuscular-blocking agents may be enhanced by calcium channel blockers (Nondepolarizing).

Nicergoline

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

Nicorandil

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

NiMODipine

NiMODipine serum levels may rise in response to weak CYP3A4 inhibitors.

Nitrogen

Blood pressure lowering medications may intensify Nitroprusside's hypotensive effects.

Palbociclib

High likelihood that inhibitors will raise serum concentrations of CYP3A4 substrates

Pentoxifylline

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

Pholcodine

Pholcodine's ability to reduce blood pressure may help to increase hypotensive effects.

Phosphodiesterase 5 Inhibitors

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

Prostacyclin Analogues

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

Quinagolide

May intensify blood pressure lowering medications' hypotensive effects.

QuiNIDine

Dihydropyridine, a calcium channel blocker, may raise the serum levels of quinine. The serum concentration of calcium channel blockers (Dihydropyridine) may rise in response to quinine. Dihydropyridine, a calcium channel blocker, may reduce the serum levels of quinine.

Sarilumab

Could decrease serum levels of CYP3A4 substrates (High Risk with Inducers).

Siltuximab

Could decrease serum levels of CYP3A4 substrates (High Risk with Inducers).

Simeprevir

High likelihood that inhibitors will raise serum concentrations of CYP3A4 substrates

Tacrolimus (Systemic)

Dihydropyridine, a calcium channel blocker, may raise the serum concentrations of tacrolimus.

Tocilizumab

Could decrease serum levels of CYP3A4 substrates (High Risk with Inducers).

Yohimbine

Antihypertensive medications may not have as much of an effect.

Risk Factor D (Regard therapy modification)

Amifostine

The hypotensive effects of amifostine may be strengthened by blood pressure reducing medications. Treatment: Stop taking blood pressure medications at least 24 hours before taking amifostine. If taking blood pressure medicine cannot be stopped, amifostine should be avoided.

Antifungal Agents (Azole Derivatives, Systemic)

Itraconazole may make calcium channel blockers more toxic or harmful. Particularly itraconazole has the potential to worsen the inotropic side effects of verapamil and diltiazem. Calcium channel blocker metabolism can be decreased by antifungal agents (azole derivatives systemic). Fluconazole and isavuconazonium probably have less powerful effects than other azoles. In different monographs, these are covered. Management: Concurrent use of itraconazole and felodipine is not permitted under any circumstances. Any medicine combination involving these ones should undergo routine monitoring. Reduced dosages of calcium channel blockers might also be required. Fluconazole and isavuconazonium sulphate are exceptions.

Antihepaciviral Combination Products

Amlodipine serum levels might rise. When using an antihepaciviral combination treatment, reduce the dosage of amlodipine by at least half and keep an eye out for any heightened amlodipine side effects (such as hypotension).

CarBAMazepine

Dihydropyridine, a calcium channel blocker, may speed up metabolism. Treatment: Patients taking calcium channel blockers concurrently with carbamazepine should think about adjusting their doses (CCB). The Canadian labelling for nimodipine expressly forbids taking it alongside carbamazepine.

Strong CYP3A4 Inducers

May speed up CYP3A4 substrate metabolism (High Risk with Inducers). Management: You might think about switching out one of the interfering medications with another medication. Contraindications may apply to specific combinations. the relevant manufacturer's label.

Dabrafenib

High chance that inducers will lower serum CYP3A4 substrate levels. Management: If at all possible, look for CYP3A4 substrate substitutes. It is best to avoid concurrent therapy wherever possible. Keep a close eye on the substrate's clinical effects (especially therapeutic effects).

Enzalutamide

High chance that inducers will lower serum levels of CYP3A4 substrates. Management: Steer clear of using enzalutamide and CYP3A4 substrates simultaneously. When utilising enzalutamide or any other CYP3A4 sub-substance, you should use caution.

Fosphenytoin

Fosphenytoin serum levels can rise in response to calcium channel blockers. Management: After stopping the use of a calcium channel blocker (CCB), monitor for a decrease in the effects of phenytoin. Keep an eye out for diminished CCB therapeutic effects. The Canadian labelling for nimodipine specifically forbids the use of phenytoin.

Lomitapide

CYP3A4 inhibitors may result in a rise in lomitapide (Weak). Treatment: Patients who are currently taking lomitapide 5 mg/day can keep doing so. Patients must cut their lomitapide dosage in half if they are taking 10 mg or more per day. then you can change the dosage of lomitapide.

Lorlatinib

High chance that inducers will lower serum levels of CYP3A4 substrates. Management: Avoid taking lorlatinib at the same time as any CYP3A4 substrates. A therapeutic failure or negative clinical outcomes could result from even a modest drop in serum concentrations.

Antibiotics with Macrolide

The metabolic activity of calcium channel blockers may be reduced. Use a non-interacting macrolide for management. The Canadian labelling for felodipine expressly advises against using it in conjunction with clarithromycin. Fidaxomicin, Roxithromycin, and Spiramycin are exceptions to the rule; azithromycin (systemic).

MiFEPRIStone

High chance that inhibitors will raise serum levels of CYP3A4 substrates. Management: During and two weeks after mifepristone treatment, reduce doses of CYP3A4 substrates and keep an eye out for elevated amounts or toxicity. Avoid ergotamine and dihydroergotamine.

Mitotane

High chance that inducers will lower serum levels of CYP3A4 substrates. Treatment: Patients on mitotane may need to significantly change their CYP3A4 Substrates dosage.

Obinutuzumab

The effects of blood pressure lowering medications may become more hypotensive as a result. Treatment: Starting 12 hours before the obinutuzumab injection and continuing for 1 hour after the infusion, you may temporarily stop taking blood pressure-lowering medications.

Phenytoin

The serum level of phenytoin can rise after taking calcium channel blockers. Phenytoin may reduce the levels of calcium channel blockers in the serum. Management: Nimodipine and nifedipine shouldn't be used with phenytoin. With any concurrent use, it's crucial to monitor for phenytoin toxicities and/or diminished calcium channel blocking effects.

Pitolisant

High chance that inducers will lower serum levels of CYP3A4 substrates Avoid combining a CYP3A4 substrate with a low therapeutic index with pitolisant. Pitolisant and other CYP3A4 sub-substances shouldn't be mixed.

Rifamycin Derivatives

A reduction in serum calcium channel blockers may result from this. The main culprit here is an oral calcium channel blocker. Management: Using rifampin with certain calcium channel blockers is not advised according to the labelling in the US and Canada. Look up the relevant labelling.

Simvastatin

AmLODIPine may increase the effects of simvastatin. Amlodipine and simvastatin shouldn't be taken concurrently. Adults should not take more than 20 mg of simvastatin daily in combination.

Sincalide

Sincalide may be less effective if drugs that affect gallbladder function are taken. Management: Before Sincalide is used to stimulate the gallbladder, discontinue any drugs that affect gallbladder motility.

St John's Wort

High chance that inducers will lower serum CYP3A4 substrate levels. Management: You might think about switching out one of the interfering medications with another medication. Contraindications may apply to specific combinations. the relevant manufacturer's label.

Stiripentol

High chance that inhibitors will raise serum levels of CYP3A4 substrates. Treatment: Steer clear of using stiripentol with CYP3A4 substrates that have a limited therapeutic index. This is done to prevent negative consequences and toxicity. Any CYP3A4 substrate that is administered in conjunction with stiripentol should be strictly monitored.

Risk Factor X (Avoid Combination)

Bromperidol

The hypotensive effects of bromperidol may be strengthened by blood pressure-lowering medications. The hypotensive effects of blood pressure-lowering medications may be lessened by bromperidol.

Conivaptan

High risk of Inhibitors causing an increase in serum CYP3A4 Substrates concentrations

Fusidic Acid (Systemic).

High risk of Inhibitors causing an increase in serum CYP3A4 Substrates concentrations

Idelalisib

High risk of Inhibitors causing an increase in serum CYP3A4 Substrates concentrations

Pimozide

Pimozide may be increased by CYP3A4 inhibitors (Weak).

Monitoring parameters:

Heart Rate and Blood Pressure

Hypertension

  • Confirmed Hypertension with Known Cardiovascular Disease (CVD) or High Cardiovascular Risk:
    • Target blood pressure: <130/80 mm Hg as recommended by the 2017 ACC/AHA Guideline.
  • Confirmed Hypertension without Increased Cardiovascular Risk:
    • Target blood pressure: <130/80 mm Hg may be reasonable according to the 2017 ACC/AHA Guideline.
  • Diabetes and Hypertension:
    • Goal blood pressure: <140/90 mm Hg according to the American Diabetes Association (ADA) guidelines (2019).
  • Known Atherosclerotic Cardiovascular Disease (ASCVD) or High ASCVD Risk:
    • Goal blood pressure: <130/80 mm Hg if safely attainable.
  • ASCVD Risk <15% (Lower Risk of CVD):
    • Goal blood pressure: <140/90 mm Hg.

In summary, for individuals with hypertension, the target blood pressure goals may vary based on the presence of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and ASCVD risk factors. The overall aim is to reduce blood pressure to levels that decrease the risk of cardiovascular events and complications while considering individual patient characteristics and safety.

How to Administer Amlodipine?

  • Oral: Amlodipine is typically administered orally in adults. It can be taken with or without food, as its effectiveness is not affected by meals.
  • Oral: Amlodipine can also be given orally to children. Like in adults, it can be administered with or without food. This flexibility in administration allows for easier dosing in pediatric patients.

Mechanism of action of Amlodipine:

  • Amlodipine works by blocking calcium ions from entering specific areas in the vascular smooth muscle and myocardium, known as "slow channels" or voltage-sensitive areas, during depolarization.
  • This action leads to relaxation of the coronary vascular smooth muscle, causing dilation of the coronary arteries.
  • As a result, more oxygen-rich blood can flow to the heart muscle, particularly beneficial in patients with vasospastic angina.
  • Additionally, amlodipine directly acts on the vascular smooth muscle, causing peripheral arterial vasodilation, which reduces peripheral vascular resistance and subsequently lowers blood pressure.
  • Overall, amlodipine helps improve blood flow to the heart and throughout the body by relaxing blood vessels, thereby reducing strain on the heart and lowering blood pressure.

Onset of Action:

  • Antihypertensive Effect: Amlodipine typically starts reducing blood pressure significantly within 24 to 48 hours after the first dose. There might be a slight increase in heart rate within 10 hours of administration, reflecting some vasodilating activity.

Duration:

  • Antihypertensive Effect: The antihypertensive effect of amlodipine lasts for at least 24 hours after a dose. Studies have shown that this effect can extend to at least 72 hours when the medication is discontinued after 6 to 7 weeks of therapy.

Absorption:

  • Amlodipine is well absorbed into the bloodstream.

Distribution:

  • In adults, the mean volume of distribution (V) is about 21 liters per kilogram. In children over 6 years old, the weight-adjusted V is similar to adults. However, in younger children under 6 years old, the weight-adjusted V may be greater than in older children.

Protein Binding:

  • Approximately 93% of amlodipine binds to proteins in the blood.

Metabolism:

  • Amlodipine is primarily metabolized in the liver, with about 90% of it being converted into inactive metabolites.

Bioavailability:

  • The bioavailability of amlodipine ranges from 64% to 90%, indicating the percentage of the administered dose that reaches the bloodstream.

Half-life Elimination:

  • The terminal elimination half-life of amlodipine is biphasic, ranging from 30 to 50 hours. This half-life can be prolonged in individuals with hepatic dysfunction.

Time to Peak, Plasma:

  • It takes about 6 to 12 hours for amlodipine to reach its peak concentration in the blood plasma after administration.

Excretion:

  • Amlodipine is primarily excreted in the urine, with approximately 10% of the total dose being eliminated unchanged and about 60% as metabolites.

Clearance:

  • Clearance of amlodipine may be decreased in patients with hepatic insufficiency or moderate to severe heart failure. In children over 6 years old, weight-adjusted clearance is similar to adults. However, in younger children under 6 years old, weight-adjusted clearance may be greater than in older children.

International brands of Amlodipine:

  • A-B Vask
  • Actapin
  • Adipin
  • Aforbes
  • Agen
  • Aladin
  • Alopine
  • Alozur
  • Amaday
  • Ambesyl
  • Amcal
  • Amcard
  • Amdepin
  • Amdhapine
  • Amdipin
  • Amdixal
  • Amedin
  • Amilo
  • Amlate
  • Amlibon
  • Amlibon BES
  • Amlo-H10
  • Amlo-H5
  • Amlo-M
  • Amlober
  • Amloc
  • Amlocar
  • Amlocard
  • Amlocor
  • Amlodac
  • Amlodar
  • Amlode
  • Amlodigamma
  • Amlodin
  • Amlodine
  • Amlodno
  • Amloget
  • Amlogrix
  • Amlong
  • Amlopine
  • Amlopres
  • Amlopress
  • Amlor
  • Amlorine
  • Amlostar
  • Amlosyn
  • Amlotan
  • Amlotens
  • Amlotrene
  • Amlovasc
  • Amlovasc 5
  • Amlow
  • Amlozen
  • Amodin
  • Amodipin
  • Amopress
  • Ampliron
  • Amtas
  • Amvasc
  • Amze
  • An Nei
  • Zhen
  • Anoldin
  • Anydipine
  • Ao Wan Lu
  • Arainno
  • Asomex-5.0
  • Astudal
  • Avevasc
  • Avistar
  • Awar
  • Bezam
  • Cab
  • Calbloc
  • Calchek
  • Calvase
  • Cardilopin
  • Cardol
  • Cobisk
  • Cordarene
  • Covasc
  • CP-Lovac
  • Cydipin
  • DAILYvasc
  • Deten
  • Dipsope
  • Du.Q
  • Duactin 5
  • Ertensi
  • Evasc
  • Fulopin
  • Gensia
  • Gravask
  • Hovasc
  • Istin
  • Istolde
  • Konipid
  • Lama
  • Licodipin
  • Lodibes
  • Lodip
  • Lodipam
  • Lofral
  • Lomanor
  • Lotense
  • Lowdipine
  • Lowrac
  • Lowvasc
  • Lupin
  • Narvin
  • Nexus
  • Noloten
  • Nopidin
  • Nor-Lodipina
  • Nordip
  • Normodipine
  • Norvapine
  • Norvas
  • Norvasc
  • Norvasc ODT
  • Norvask
  • Novaspin
  • Odasyl
  • Opivask
  • Prelod
  • Presilam
  • Provasc
  • Remedopin S
  • Sinnorvapin
  • Sinop
  • Sistopress
  • Stadovas
  • Stamlo
  • Stamlo-10
  • Tenox
  • Tensiblat
  • Terloc
  • Varodipine
  • Vascodipine
  • Vascor
  • Vasocal
  • Vasotop
  • Vasten
  • Zynor
  • ACCEL-Amlodipine
  • ACT Amlodipine
  • AG-Amlodipine
  • APO-Amlodipine
  • Auro-Amlodipine
  • BIO-Amlodipine
  • DOM-Amlodipine
  • GD-Amlodipine
  • JAMP-Amlodipine
  • M-Amlodipine
  • Mar-Amlodipine
  • MINT-Amlodipine
  • MYLAN-Amlodipine
  • Norvasc
  • NRA-Amlodipine
  • PHARMA-Amlodipine
  • PHL-Amlodipine
  • PMS-Amlodipine
  • Priva-Amlodipine
  • Q-Amlodipine
  • RAN-Amlodipine
  • SANDOZ Amlodipine
  • Septa-Amlodipine
  • TEVA-Amlodipine
  • VAN-Amlodipine

Amlodipine Brands in Pakistan:

Amlodipine (Besylate) [Tabs 5 Mg]

Adoptin

Fynk Pharmaceuticals

Adoptine

Tread Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd

Amdipine

Nabiqasim Industries (Pvt) Ltd.

Amdipine

Nabiqasim Industries (Pvt) Ltd.

Amdocal

Bex Pharma (Pvt) Ltd.

Aml

Batala Pharmaceuticals.

Amlobest

Pearl Pharmaceuticals

Amlocard

Pharmatec Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.

Amlod

Atco Laboratories Limited

Amlodip

Searle Pakistan (Pvt.) Ltd.

Amlofine

Medline Health Care

Amlomak

Makson Pharmaceuticals

Amlomed

Medifine Laboratories

Amlopal

Alson Pharmaceuticals

Amlopin

Shaigan Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd

Amlopro

Wns Field Pharmaceuticals

Amlosaf

Saaaf Pharmaceuticals

Amlotac

Hygeia Pharmaceuticals

Amlowan

Nawan Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd.

Amodip

Mass Pharma (Private) Limited

Amolin

F.M. Pharmaceuticals International

Amotel

Ideal Pharmaceutical Industries

Ampress

Barrett Hodgson Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.

Amrx

Siza International (Pvt) Ltd.

Amvasc

Aries Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd

Amvazam

Cirin Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Anam

Tagma Pharma (Pvt) Ltd.

Angipin

Standpharm Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.

Ardepin

Ardin Pharmaceuticals

Aviant

Gray`S Pharmaceuticals

Bescard

Flow Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Besipine

Csh Pharmaceuticals-North (Pvt) Ltd

Ca-B

Saydon Pharmaceutical Industries (Pvt) Ltd.

Cabok

Platinum Pharmaceuticals (Pvt.) Ltd.

Caloc

Bosch Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Canta

Shaheen Pharmaceuticals

Cardiocare

Jawa Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd.

Cardiosil

Himont Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Cardiovasc

Werrick Pharmaceuticals

Co-Cardiovasc

Werrick Pharmaceuticals

Coram

Brookes Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pak.) Ltd.

Corcont

Swiss Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Cordfed

Fedro Pharmaceutical

Cordium

Pharmix Laboratories (Private) Limited.

Corinor

P.D.H. Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Dipivas

Fassgen Pharmaceuticals

Enalatac

Hygeia Pharmaceuticals

Endip

English Pharmaceuticals Industries

Envas

Lowitt Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd

Farlod

Un Pharma International

G-Sac

Global Pharmaceuticals

Hartvasc-Plus

Scotmann Pharmaceuticals

Hibiohit

Unipharma (Pvt) Ltd.

Hiblohit

Unipharma (Pvt) Ltd.

Hodip

Heal Pharmaceuticals Pvt Ltd

Hypercor

Novins International

Hypotin

Don Valley Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Hypres

Don Valley Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Leaf

Scotmann Pharmaceuticals

Lipinox

Friends Pharma (Pvt) Ltd

Lodipin

Schazoo Zaka

Lodivasc

Dosaco Laboratories

Lodopin

Merck Private Ltd.

Lopin

Ambrosia Pharmaceuticals

Megadip

Mega Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd

Mevodip

Alliance Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Midopine

Welmark Pharmaceuticals

Miosil

Europak Pharma (Pvt) Ltd

Mlow

Scilife Pharma (Private) Ltd

Modopine

Askari Pharmaceuticals.

Nencure

Nenza Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Limited

Neopres

Biogenics Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.

Norvasc

Pfizer Laboratories Ltd.

Norvasc

Pfizer Laboratories Ltd.

Onato

Sami Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Orelop

Flow Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Quvasc

Novartis Pharma (Pak) Ltd

Rasdipin

Rasco Pharma

Ravapine

Rakaposhi Pharmaceutical (Pvt) Ltd.

Ravapine

Rakaposhi Pharmaceutical (Pvt) Ltd.

Rydem

Werrick Pharmaceuticals

S-Dip

Shrooq Pharmaceuticals

Salome

Lahore Chemical & Pharmaceutical Works (Pvt) Ltd

Sicknor

Everest Pharmaceuticals

Sofvasc

Wilsons Pharmaceuticals

Sofvasc

Wilsons Pharmaceuticals

Sofvasc Plus

Wilsons Pharmaceuticals

Swint

Libra Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd

Tarovasc

Everest Pharmaceuticals

Vasic

Miracle Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd

Vasodil

Pharmedic (Pvt) Ltd.

Vasodipine

Alfalah Pharma (Pvt) Ltd.

Vespin

Amson Vaccines & Pharma (Pvt) Ltd.

Wincoram

Polyfine Chempharma (Pvt) Ltd.

Zamlo

Zafa Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd.

Zodip

Zafa Pharmaceutical Laboratories (Pvt) Ltd.

 

Amlodipine (Besylate) [Tabs 10 Mg]

Amdipine

Nabiqasim Industries (Pvt) Ltd.

Amdipine

Nabiqasim Industries (Pvt) Ltd.

Amlobest

Pearl Pharmaceuticals

Amlocard

Pharmatec Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.

Amlodip

Searle Pakistan (Pvt.) Ltd.

Amlofine

Medline Health Care

Amlomak

Makson Pharmaceuticals

Amlomed

Medifine Laboratories

Amlopal

Alson Pharmaceuticals

Amlopro

Wns Field Pharmaceuticals

Amlosaf

Saaaf Pharmaceuticals

Amlosyl

Lexicon Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd.

Amlotac

Hygeia Pharmaceuticals

Amodip

Mass Pharmaceuticals(Private) Limited

Amotel

Ideal Pharmaceuticals Industries

Ampress

Barrett Hodgson Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.

Amrx

Siza International (Pvt) Ltd.

Amvasc

Aries Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd

Anam

Tagma Pharma (Pvt) Ltd.

Angipin

Standpharm Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.

Ardepin

Ardin Pharmaceuticals

Aviant

Gray`S Pharmaceuticals

Bescard

Flow Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd.

Ca-B

Saydon Pharmaceuticals Industries (Pvt) Ltd.

Cabok

Platinum Pharmaceuticals(Pvt.) Ltd.

Caloc

Bosch Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd.

Canta

Shaheen Pharmaceuticals

Cardiocare

Jawa Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Cardiosil

Himont Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd.

Cardiovasc

Werrick Pharmaceuticals

Coram

Brookes Pharmaceuticals Laboratories (Pak.) Ltd.

Corcont

Swiss Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Corinor

P.D.H. Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd.

Dipcare

Silver Oak Corporation.

Dipivas

Fassgen Pharmaceuticals

Enalatac

Hygeia Pharmaceuticals

Endip

English Pharmaceuticals Industries

Envas

Lowitt Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd

Farlod

Un Pharma International

Hartvasc-Plus

Scotmann Pharmaceuticals

Hodip

Heal Pharmaceuticalspvt Ltd

Hypercor

Novins International

Hypocard

Caylex Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Hypotin

Don Valley Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd.

Hypres

Don Valley Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd.

Lodipin

Schazoo Zaka

Lodopin

Merck Private Ltd.

Lopin

Ambrosia Pharmaceuticals

Megadip

Mega Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd

Midopine

Welmark Pharmaceuticals

Miosil

Europak Pharma (Pvt) Ltd

Mlow

Scilife Pharma (Private) Ltd

Modopine

Askari Pharmaceuticals.

Nencure

Nenza Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Limited

Neopres

Biogenics Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.

Norvasc

Pfizer Laboratories Ltd.

Norvasc

Pfizer Laboratories Ltd.

Onato

Sami Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd.

Orelop

Flow Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd.

Provasc

Genome Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd

Quvasc

Novartis Pharma (Pak) Ltd

Ravapine

Rakaposhi Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd.

Ravapine

Rakaposhi Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd.

Rydem

Werrick Pharmaceuticals

S-Dip

Shrooq Pharmaceuticals

Sicknor

Everest Pharmaceuticals

Sofvasc

Wilsons Pharmaceuticals

Swint

Libra Pharmaceuticals(Pvt) Ltd

Tarovasc

Everest Pharmaceuticals

Vasic

Miracle Pharmaceuticals (Pvt) Ltd

Vatlo

Alkemy Pharmaceuticals Laboratories (Private) Ltd.

Wincoram

Polyfine Chempharma (Pvt) Ltd.

 

Amlodipine (Besylate) [Tabs 2.5 Mg]

Amlocard

Pharmatec Pakistan (Pvt) Ltd.

Amodip

Mass Pharma (Private) Limited

Cardiovasc

Werrick Pharmaceuticals

Hartvasc-Plus

Scotmann Pharmaceuticals

Lodopin

Merck Private Ltd.

Quvasc

Novartis Pharma (Pak) Ltd

Rydem

Werrick Pharmaceuticals

Sofvasc

Wilsons Pharmaceuticals