Amlodipine
Mechanism
Blocks L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, producing arterial vasodilation.
Uses
- Hypertension
- Chronic stable angina
- Vasospastic angina
- Coronary artery disease
Common effects
- Peripheral edema
- Dizziness
- Flushing
- Palpitations
Serious risks
- Symptomatic hypotension
- Worsening angina after initiation or dose increase
- Clinically significant edema
Monitoring
- Blood pressure
- Peripheral edema
- Angina symptoms
- Adherence
Counseling
- Take consistently each day
- Swelling at the ankles can occur
- Rise slowly if lightheaded
- Do not stop solely because blood pressure improves