8 habits to stop or reconsider
-
Don’t stop amlodipine when your blood pressure improves.
A normal reading may mean the medication is working. Stopping it without your prescriber’s guidance can allow blood pressure to rise again. -
Don’t routinely drink grapefruit juice or eat grapefruit without checking your product information.
Some patient leaflets specifically advise avoiding grapefruit with amlodipine because it may increase drug levels and the blood-pressure-lowering effect. However, the U.S. prescribing information reports no significant pharmacokinetic effect in a small grapefruit-juice study, so guidance differs between sources. If you regularly consume grapefruit, ask your pharmacist about your specific formulation. -
Don’t drink heavily.
Alcohol can add to amlodipine’s blood-pressure-lowering effect and increase the likelihood of dizziness or low blood pressure. -
Don’t ignore persistent ankle or foot swelling.
Swollen ankles and feet are a common amlodipine side effect. Elevating your legs may help, but persistent or troublesome swelling should be discussed with your doctor rather than simply tolerated. -
Don’t stand up suddenly if you’re feeling dizzy.
Dizziness can occur with amlodipine. Sit or lie down until it passes, and avoid driving or operating machinery while you remain dizzy. -
Don’t take extra tablets to compensate for a missed dose.
If you miss a dose, NHS guidance advises skipping it and taking your next dose as usual rather than doubling up. Taking too much can cause dangerously low blood pressure. -
Don’t start supplements or medicines without checking for interactions.
Tell your doctor or pharmacist about prescription medicines, over-the-counter drugs, vitamins and herbal products. Certain medicines—including some antifungals, antibiotics, HIV medicines, immunosuppressants and St John’s wort—can interact with amlodipine. -
Don’t neglect the lifestyle factors that affect blood pressure.
Amlodipine controls blood pressure, but it doesn’t replace a heart-healthy lifestyle. Regular physical activity, a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, limiting excess sodium, avoiding tobacco, and moderating alcohol can all be important parts of blood-pressure management
