Amlodipine is a long acting dihydropyridine calcium channel antagonist with resultant antihypertensive activity related to smooth muscle relaxation.
Slow onset of action, do not repeat dose due to perceived lack of effect as this may precipitate overdosage.
Invasive or regular non invasive (1st reading 1-2 hours after dose then 3-6hrly blood pressure monitoring should occur for 48hrs after initiation and any dose titration)
Use with caution with left heart outflow obstruction (aortic stenosis, coarctation) and with heart failure
Adverse effects may include hypotension, feed intolerance and alteration of liver function tests, flushing, peripheral oedema and palpitations. Caution when used in combination with other medication which may lower blood pressure.
Overdose syndrome may cause profound treatment resistant shock, hypotension and bradycardia.
Caution when used with other medications metabolised via CYP3A4 (eg CYP3A4 inhibitors erythromycin, azole antifungals may potentiate effects causing hypotension; CYP3A4 inducers Phenobarbitone and rifampicin may reduce effects).
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