Prescription Amlodipine Besylate (value) Drug Information

It is a calcium antagonist, sometimes known as a calcium-channel blocker. It is used to lower blood pressure and prevent the onset of chest pain associated with angina. In general this drug is used for high blood pressure - essential hypertension and for chest pain from angina including the rare forms - Prinzmetal's or variant angina. Benefits of being on this drug can include the prevention of chest pain from angina and a reduction in blood pressure. Listed below are the typical uses of amlodipine. High blood pressure Chronic stable angina Prinzmetal's or variant angina Take this medication orally, usually once daily with a drink of water, with or without food. Use this medication regularly in order to get the most benefit from it. Remember to use it at the same time each day - unless specifically told otherwise by your doctor. Certain medical conditions may require different dosage instructions as directed by your doctor. If amlodipine causes you to feel sick, tired, dizzy or gives you a headache, these symptoms could affect your ability to concentrate. Make sure you are not affected before driving or operating machinery. Consult your doctor or pharmacist for more details. It is important to continue taking this medication even if you feel well, unless your doctor tells you to stop. Before taking amlodipine, tell your doctor or pharmacist if you are allergic to it; or to other calcium antagonists; or if you have any other allergies. This medication should not be used if you have certain medical conditions. Before using this medicine, consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have: very low blood pressure making you feel faint or dizzy, are in shock or have cardiogenic shock, poor heart function because of severe heart disease or a heart attack, heart failure because of a heart attack within the last 28 days, narrowing of the heart valve of the aorta - aortic stenosis, unstable angina - angina is chest pain occurring when the heart muscle is not getting enough blood. Before using this medication, tell your doctor or pharmacist your medical history, especially any of the following: low cardiac reserve meaning that the heart is unable to cope with any extra demands placed upon it - when, for example, walking, acute porphyria, heart failure, or any liver problems. Amlodipine is not safe to take if you are, or are planning to become, pregnant. It is sensible to limit use of medication during pregnancy whenever possible. However, your doctor may decide that the benefits outweigh the risks in individual circumstances and after a careful assessment of your specific health situation. If you have any doubts or concerns you are advised to discuss the medicine with your doctor or pharmacist. BREAST FEEDING Amlodipine is not safe to take if you are breastfeeding