Reviewed by Ashley Robinson, PharmD, Pharmacy Manager for TelyRx
Amlodipine (brand name Norvasc) is an oral prescription medication used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). It is also used to manage coronary artery disease and prevent chronic chest pain (angina).
Amlodipine is designed for long-term use and can be prescribed alone or in combination with other heart medications. Common side effects include fatigue, nausea, abdominal pain, and swelling in the hands and feet.
As a calcium channel blocker, amlodipine works by relaxing the blood vessels. This lowers blood pressure and makes it easier for oxygen to reach the heart, helping to prevent chest pain.
| Common Brands | Norvasc |
|---|---|
| Drug Class | Calcium channel blocker |
| Generic Status | Generic version of Norvasc |
| Availability | Prescription Only |
Note: Dosing information below is educational only. Your prescribing physician will determine your specific dose based on your individual health needs.
Amlodipine comes in three dosage strengths: 2.5 mg, 5 mg, and 10 mg. The recommended dose of amlodipine for adults is usually 5 mg daily taken by mouth. Your provider may increase the dose depending on how your blood pressure responds. The maximum dose is 10 mg daily.
A lower starting dose of 2.5 mg daily is recommended for small, fragile, or older adults, as well as adults with liver problems.
Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions for exact dosing.
Amlodipine is FDA-approved to treat cardiovascular conditions such as:
You may see amlodipine prescribed for uses that are not “FDA-approved.” This is a very common and legal practice called “off-label” prescribing, where a doctor uses their clinical judgment to prescribe a drug for a different (but well-researched) purpose.
While amlodipine is FDA-approved for blood pressure and angina, healthcare providers may prescribe it for other circulatory conditions such as Raynaud’s phenomenon, a condition where fingers and toes feel numb or cold in response to temperature changes.
Like all medications, amlodipine can cause side effects. Common side effects may improve as your body adjusts to the medication, but others may be serious and require medical attention.
Serious side effects are rare, but it’s important to know what to look for if they do occur. Stop using amlodipine and call your doctor immediately if you experience:
Call your doctor immediately if you experience any concerning or prolonged symptoms.
Amlodipine can interact with other medications, potentially altering their effectiveness or increasing side effects. For example:
Always give your doctor and pharmacist a complete list of all your medications, vitamins, and supplements to check for potential interactions.
Why does amlodipine cause swelling?
Amlodipine works by relaxing and widening blood vessels. This relaxation can sometimes cause fluid to leak from the small blood vessels into the surrounding tissues, leading to swelling (edema), particularly in the ankles, hands, and feet.
Is it better to take amlodipine in the morning or at night?
You can take amlodipine at any time of day, with or without food. However, it is recommended to take it at the same time every day.
How quickly does amlodipine lower blood pressure?
Amlodipine may start to lower blood pressure within a few hours of the first dose, but it typically takes a few weeks of consistent daily use to see the full effects.
Does amlodipine cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not a common side effect of the drug itself. However, because amlodipine can cause fluid retention (swelling), some people may notice a slight increase in weight due to water retention.
Is amlodipine safe for kidneys?
Yes, amlodipine is generally considered safe for the kidneys. It is processed primarily by the liver, so dose adjustments are typically not needed for kidney disease.
Can I stop taking amlodipine if my blood pressure is normal?
You should keep taking the medication as prescribed unless your doctor tells you to stop. High blood pressure can be a chronic condition, and the medication can help keep your levels normal.
Does amlodipine interact with other blood pressure medications?
Amlodipine may be prescribed with other blood pressure medications. However, taking multiple drugs that lower blood pressure can sometimes cause it to drop too low (hypotension). Your doctor may recommend extra monitoring to prevent this from happening.
What are the most common side effects of amlodipine?
The most common side effects of amlodipine are swelling of the hands or feet, tiredness, dizziness, nausea, abdominal pain, heart palpitations, and flushing of the face.
Does amlodipine cause erectile dysfunction?
It is rare, but some men have reported erectile dysfunction (ED) while taking amlodipine. However, high blood pressure itself is also a common cause of ED. If you experience ED, speak with your provider for treatment options.
There are several medications that your doctor can prescribe in place of amlodipine. Here are a few possible alternatives below.
Important: Information on this page is for educational purposes only. Prescribing decisions are made by independent, licensed providers. TelyRx operates technology-enabled pharmacies and a telehealth platform that connects patients with board-certified licensed providers. Prescriptions, when provider-approved and issued, are filled and shipped by TelyRx-affiliated pharmacies. We do not employ physicians or make prescribing decisions. Learn more about our editorial standards here.
