Amlodipine
Mechanism :
Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium antagonist (slow-channel blocker) that inhibits the transmembrane influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle.
Amlodipine is a peripheral arterial vasodilator that acts directly on vascular smooth muscle to cause a reduction in peripheral vascular resistance and reduction in blood pressure.
Indication :
Contraindications :
Amlodipine is contraindicated in dihydropyridine hypersensitivity. It can cause liver damage.
Dosing :
For <6 years of age:
Safety and efficacy not established.
For >6 years of age:
2.5-5 mg/day oral.
Adverse Effect :
Headache, edema, flushing, dizziness, palpitation, nausea, male sexual dysfunction, abdominal pain, somnolence, vomiting.
Interaction :
Itraconazole and Fluconazole: Inhibits amlodipine metabolism.
Rifampicin: Decreases effects of amlodipine.
Cyclosporine: Levels of cyclosporine are increased.
Renal Dose :
Dose in Renal Impairment GFR (mL/min)
| 20-50 | Dose as in normal renal function |
| 10-20 | Dose as in normal renal function |
| <10 | Dose as in normal renal function |
Dose in Patients undergoing Renal Replacement Therapies
| CAPD | Not dialysed. Dose as in normal renal function |
| HD | Not dialysed. Dose as in normal renal function |
| HDF/High flux | Unlikely to be dialysed. Dose as in normal renal function |
| CAV/VVHD | Not dialysed. Dose as in normal renal function |
Hepatic Dose :
Use with caution as elimination half-life of amlodipine is prolonged in patients with hepatic disease. Start with a reduced dose and adjust dosage based on clinical response.