Amlodipine Besylate Tablets USP 10mg

About Amlodipine Besylate Tablets USP 10mg

Amlodipine Besylate Tablets USP 10mg is a medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and certain types of chest pain (angina). It belongs to a class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers, which work by relaxing the blood vessels and improving blood flow.

Active Ingredient:

• Amlodipine Besylate: A calcium channel blocker (CCB) that works by inhibiting the entry of calcium into the smooth muscle cells of the heart and blood vessels, leading to vasodilation (relaxation of blood vessels). This helps to lower blood pressure and reduce the workload on the heart, thereby preventing angina.

Common Uses:

Amlodipine Besylate Tablets 10mg are primarily used for:

1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): By relaxing the blood vessels, amlodipine helps to reduce blood pressure, which can lower the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems.
2. Angina: Used to treat certain types of chest pain (angina), including stable angina (caused by coronary artery disease) and variant angina (Prinzmetal™s angina). It helps by improving blood flow to the heart muscle.
3. Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Amlodipine is used in some cases of CAD to reduce the frequency and severity of angina attacks.

Dosage and Administration:

• Concentration: Each tablet contains 10 mg of Amlodipine Besylate.

• Typical adult dosage:

  • Hypertension: The typical starting dose is 5 mg once daily, which can be increased to 10 mg once daily, depending on the patient™s response.
  • Angina: The usual dose is 5 mg once daily, with an option to increase to 10 mg once daily if needed.
  • Maximum dose: The maximum recommended dose is 10 mg per day.

• How to take:

  • Amlodipine is usually taken once a day, with or without food.
  • Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush the tablet.
  • Try to take the medication at the same time every day to help you remember.

Side Effects:

• Common side effects:

  • Swelling (edema), particularly in the ankles and feet.
  • Headache.
  • Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
  • Fatigue or tiredness.
  • Flushing (warmth or redness of the skin).

• Serious side effects (less common but serious):

  • Severe dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness due to low blood pressure.
  • Fast or irregular heartbeats.
  • Chest pain or worsening of angina symptoms.
  • Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing.
  • Allergic reactions: Rash, itching, swelling, especially of the face, tongue, or throat, and difficulty breathing.

Precautions and Warnings:

• Allergies: Do not take amlodipine if you are allergic to amlodipine or any of the other ingredients in the tablet.
• Heart problems: If you have a history of heart problems like heart failure, aortic stenosis, or low blood pressure, use amlodipine with caution.
• Liver problems: People with liver issues may require a dose adjustment, as amlodipine is metabolized in the liver.
• Kidney problems: Amlodipine can affect kidney function. Inform your healthcare provider if you have kidney issues.
• Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Amlodipine is generally considered safe during pregnancy (Category C), but you should consult with your doctor before using it if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.
• Drug interactions: Amlodipine can interact with other medications, including beta-blockers, digoxin, other antihypertensive drugs, and grapefruit juice (which can increase the effects of amlodipine). Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking.

When to consult a doctor:

• If you experience severe side effects such as extreme dizziness, fainting, or chest pain.
• If you develop swelling in your legs or feet that worsens.
• If you notice any signs of an allergic reaction, such as rash, difficulty breathing, or swelling of the face or throat.
• If your blood pressure drops too low (symptoms may include dizziness, fainting, or lightheadedness).
• If you have persistent or worsening chest pain or angina.

Conclusion:

Amlodipine Besylate Tablets 10mg is an effective medication for managing high blood pressure and angina. By relaxing blood vessels and reducing the heart's workload, it helps prevent complications such as heart attack and stroke. However, like any medication, it is essential to follow the prescribed dosage and monitor for side effects. If any severe or unusual symptoms occur, consult your healthcare provider immediately.