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This is an information resource — not medical advice.

PillCodex provides general educational information about medications. This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Never start, stop, or change a medication based on what you read here. Always speak to your doctor, pharmacist, or qualified healthcare provider with questions about your medications.

🚨 If you are experiencing a medical emergency or think you may have taken too much of a medication, call emergency services (911 in the US) or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.

Calcium Channel Blocker🔒 Prescription only

What Is Amlodipine (Norvasc) Used For?

Brand names: Norvasc

Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure and angina (chest pain). It relaxes blood vessels so the heart works less hard.

What is Amlodipine used for?

High blood pressure (hypertension)
Chest pain (stable angina)
Vasospastic angina
Coronary artery disease

How does Amlodipine work?

Amlodipine blocks calcium from entering blood vessel smooth muscle cells, causing them to relax and widen, lowering blood pressure and reducing heart workload.

Dosage information

💊Available forms

2.5mg tablets
5mg tablets
10mg tablets

📏Typical dosage

Usually 5–10mg taken once daily with or without food at any time of day.

⚠️ Dosage varies by individual. Always follow your doctor's or pharmacist's instructions — never self-dose based on general information.

Side effects

Common

Swelling of ankles and feet (very common)
Flushing
Headache
Fatigue
Dizziness

⚠️ Serious — contact your doctor

Severe low blood pressure
Worsening chest pain (rare, when starting)
Liver problems (rare)

Important warnings

Ankle swelling is common but tell your doctor

Do not stop suddenly without consulting your doctor

Be careful when rising — can cause dizziness

Tell your doctor if chest pain worsens

Drug interactions

These substances may interact with Amlodipine. This is not a complete list — always tell your doctor and pharmacist ALL medications and supplements you take.

Simvastatin (dose limits apply)CyclosporineGrapefruit juiceCYP3A4 inhibitors

Pregnancy & breastfeeding

🤰 Use with caution — discuss with your doctor

Always consult your doctor or obstetrician before taking any medication during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.

Frequently asked questions

What is amlodipine used for?

Amlodipine treats high blood pressure and chest pain (angina). Lowering blood pressure reduces risk of heart attack, stroke, and kidney problems.

Why does amlodipine cause ankle swelling?

It affects up to 10% of users. The drug dilates small blood vessels causing fluid to leak into nearby tissues. Usually harmless but can be uncomfortable.

Can I take amlodipine at night?

Amlodipine can be taken at any time of day. Consistency matters most. Some research suggests evening dosing may be slightly better.

How long does amlodipine take to work?

It begins to lower blood pressure within 24 hours but maximum effect takes 7–14 days.

What foods should I avoid with amlodipine?

Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice — they increase amlodipine levels raising risk of low blood pressure and dizziness.

Related medications

💊LisinoprilACE Inhibitor 💊AtorvastatinStatin (HMG-CoA reductase inhibitor)💊MetoprololBeta-Blocker 💊HydrochlorothiazideThiazide Diuretic (Water Pill)

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This is an information resource — not medical advice.

🚨 If you are experiencing a medical emergency or think you may have taken too much of a medication, call emergency services (911 in the US) or go to your nearest emergency room immediately.

Information on this page is sourced from general pharmaceutical references and is provided for educational purposes only. Drug information may change — always verify with your pharmacist or prescriber. PillCodex.com is not affiliated with any pharmaceutical company.