Amlodipine is a prescription medication used mainly to treat:
- High blood pressure (hypertension)
- Chest pain (angina), including from coronary artery disease
It belongs to a group of drugs called calcium channel blockers.
How it works
Amlodipine relaxes and widens blood vessels, which:
- Lowers blood pressure
- Improves blood flow to the heart
- Reduces the heart’s workload
Common side effects
Some people may experience:
- Swelling in the ankles or feet (very common)
- Dizziness or lightheadedness
- Flushing (feeling warm or red in the face)
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Palpitations
Serious (less common) effects
Seek medical help if there is:
- Severe swelling or sudden weight gain
- Chest pain that worsens
- Fainting or very low blood pressure
- Irregular heartbeat
Important notes
- It is usually taken once daily
- It can take several days to weeks to show full blood pressure control
- Do not stop suddenly without medical advice
- Alcohol can increase dizziness or blood pressure-lowering effects
If you want, tell me why you’re asking (side effects, dosage, interactions, or something else), and I can tailor the explanation.