8 Habits You Should Stop If You Take Amlodipine
Amlodipine is commonly used to control high blood pressure and prevent angina. Most people take it long term, but certain habits can make side effects or blood-pressure control worse.
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Don’t stop amlodipine suddenly. Even if you feel well, stopping it without medical advice can allow your blood pressure to rise and increase cardiovascular risk.
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Don’t regularly drink large amounts of alcohol. Alcohol can increase the blood-pressure-lowering effect of amlodipine and make dizziness or low blood pressure more likely.
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Don’t ignore persistent ankle or foot swelling. Swollen ankles, feet, and legs are among amlodipine’s common side effects. Tell your doctor if swelling is troublesome or persistent rather than simply accepting it.
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Don’t stand up abruptly if the medicine makes you dizzy. Move slowly from lying or sitting to standing, particularly when you’re first starting treatment or your dose has changed.
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Don’t routinely take ibuprofen, naproxen, or other NSAIDs without checking first. These medicines can interact with blood-pressure treatment and can themselves cause kidney and cardiovascular problems, particularly with prolonged use or in people at higher risk.
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Don’t start herbal remedies or supplements without checking with a pharmacist or doctor. Some medicines and herbal products—including St John’s wort—can interact with amlodipine.
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Don’t forget to check other prescriptions for interactions. For example, amlodipine interacts with some medicines, including certain antibiotics, antifungals, HIV medicines, and immunosuppressants.
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Don’t neglect regular blood-pressure monitoring. Feeling fine doesn’t necessarily mean your blood pressure is controlled. Keep taking amlodipine as prescribed and have your blood pressure checked as recommended.
One important clarification about grapefruit
Some health websites warn people taking amlodipine to avoid grapefruit, and the current NHS advice does recommend avoiding it because of potential increased side effects. However, older FDA prescribing information reports that grapefruit juice did not significantly affect amlodipine exposure in a small study. If you regularly consume grapefruit, the safest approach is to ask your pharmacist about your particular product and other medications.
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Never change or stop your amlodipine dose because of a social-media health claim. If you’re experiencing dizziness, fainting, significant swelling, or very low blood pressure, contact your healthcare professional.
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