Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker used as an anti-hypertensive and in the treatment of angina. Common brand names of amlodipine are Aforbes, Alzor, Amaday, Ambloc, Amlong, Amlosyl, Bezam, Calbloc, Calcivas, Corvex, Derox, Envacar, Exford, Lodicap, Medipin, Norbloc, Norvasc, Sedipin, Stamlo, Teneze, and Vascar. Amlodipine is classified as a Calcium channel blocker, anti-hypertensive, and anti-anginal.

Indication for Amlodipine

Amlodipine is used to manage hypertension, chronic stable angina, and vasospastic angina. It may be used alone or with other anti-hypertensives or anti-anginals.

Routes and Dosage of Amlodipine

Alert: Dosage should be titrated over 7-14 days.

Hypertension

PO: ADULTS: Initially 5 mg/day as single dose. Maximum: 10 mg per day.

PO: SMALL-FRAME, FRAGILE, ELDERLY: Initially 2.5 mg/day as single dose.

Angina (Chronic, Stable, or Vasospastic)

PO: ADULTS: 5-20 mg. ELDERLY, HEPATIC, INSUFFICIENCY: 5 mg.

Dosage in Liver Impairment

PO: ADULTS, ELDERLY: Initially, 2.5 mg per day.

Action of Amlodipine

Amlodipine inhibits calcium movement across cell membranes of cardiac and vascular smooth muscle. It dilates coronary arteries, peripheral arteries and arterioles. Amlodipine decreases total peripheral vascular resistance by vasodilation.

Side Effects and Adverse Reactions of Amlodipine

Side Effects of Amlodipine

  • Peripheral edema
  • Headache
  • Flushing
  • Dizziness
  • Palpitations
  • Nausea
  • Unusual tiredness or weakness
  • Chest pain
  • Bradycardia
  • Orthostatic Hypotension

Adverse Reactions of Amlodipine

  • Excessive peripheral vasodilation
  • Marked hypotension
  • Reflex tachycardia

Nursing Considerations for Clients Taking Amlodipine

  • Assess baseline renal and liver function.
  • Assess blood pressure.
  • Assess apical pulse.
  • Assess for peripheral edema behind medial malleolus.
  • Assess skin for flushing.
  • Question for headache and weakness.
  • May be given without regards to food.
  • Grapefruit juice may increase drug concentration.

Patient Teachings for Clients Taking Amlodipine

  • Do not abruptly discontinue medication.
  • Compliance with therapy regimen is essential to control hypertension.
  • Avoid tasks that require alertness or motor skills until response to drug is established.
  • Avoid concomitant ingestion of grapefruit.