Amlodipine tablets

What is this medicine?

AMLODIPINE (am LOE di peen) is a calcium-channel blocker. It affects the amount of calcium found in your heart and muscle cells. This relaxes your blood vessels, which can reduce the amount of work the heart has to do. This medicine is used to lower high blood pressure. It is also used to prevent chest pain.

How should I use this medicine?

Take this medicine by mouth with a glass of water. Follow the directions on the prescription label. You can take it with or without food. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food. Take your medicine at regular intervals. Do not take it more often than directed. Do not stop taking except on your doctor's advice.

Talk to your pediatrician regarding the use of this medicine in children. While this drug may be prescribed for children as young as 6 years for selected conditions, precautions do apply.

Patients over 65 years of age may have a stronger reaction and need a smaller dose.

What side effects may I notice from receiving this medicine?

Side effects that you should report to your doctor or health care professional as soon as possible:

• allergic reactions like skin rash, itching or hives; swelling of the face, lips, or tongue

• fast, irregular heartbeat

• signs and symptoms of low blood pressure like dizziness; feeling faint or lightheaded, falls; unusually weak or tired

• swelling of ankles, feet, hands

Side effects that usually do not require medical attention (report these to your doctor or health care professional if they continue or are bothersome):

• dry mouth

• facial flushing

• headache

• stomach pain

• tiredness

What may interact with this medicine?

This medicine may interact with the following medications:

• clarithromycin

• cyclosporine

• diltiazem

• itraconazole

• simvastatin

• tacrolimus

What if I miss a dose?

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you can. If it is almost time for your next dose, take only that dose. Do not take double or extra doses.

Where should I keep my medicine?

Keep out of the reach of children.

Store at room temperature between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C).

Throw away any unused medicine after the expiration date.

What should I tell my health care provider before I take this medicine?

They need to know if you have any of these conditions:

• heart disease

• liver disease

• an unusual or allergic reaction to amlodipine, other medicines, foods, dyes, or preservatives

• pregnant or trying to get pregnant

• breast-feeding

What should I watch for while using this medicine?

Visit your healthcare professional for regular checks on your progress. Check your blood pressure as directed. Ask your healthcare professional what your blood pressure should be and when you should contact him or her.

Do not treat yourself for coughs, colds, or pain while you are using this medicine without asking your healthcare professional for advice. Some medicines may increase your blood pressure.

You may get dizzy. Do not drive, use machinery, or do anything that needs mental alertness until you know how this medicine affects you. Do not stand or sit up quickly, especially if you are an older patient. This reduces the risk of dizzy or fainting spells. Avoid alcoholic drinks; they can make you dizzier.