Generic Name: E: AMLODIPINE (am-LOE-di-peen)
Drug Manufacturer: PFIZER U.S.
Common Uses: This medicine is a
calcium channel blocker used to control high blood pressure or angina (chest
pain). High blood pressure reduction helps prevent strokes, heart attacks
and kidney problems.
How to use this Medicine: Use this
medicine exactly as directed by your doctor. This medicine may be taken on
an empty stomach or with food. STORE THIS MEDICINE at room temperature
between 59 and 86 degrees F (15 and 30 degrees C) in a tightly-closed
container, away from heat and light. Do not store in the bathroom. CONTINUE
TO TAKE THIS MEDICINE even if you feel well. Do not miss any doses. Most
people with high blood pressure do not feel sick. IF YOU MISS A DOSE OF THIS
MEDICINE and remember it the same day, take it as soon as possible. If you
do not remember until the next day, skip the missed dose and go back to your
regular dosing schedule. Do not take 2 doses at once.
Cautions: IF YOU HAVE BEEN USING THIS
MEDICINE REGULARLY, do not stop using it without checking with your doctor.
IF YOU ARE TAKING THIS MEDICINE FOR ANGINA, it will not relieve the pain of
an acute attack if taken at the time of the acute attack. It prevents or
reduces the number of angina attacks only if you take it on a regular
schedule. THIS MEDICINE MAY CAUSE DIZZINESS. Do not drive, operate
machinery, or do anything else that could be dangerous until you know how
you react to this medicine. SIT UP OR STAND SLOWLY from a seated or lying
position to allow your body time to adjust. WHEN YOU BEGIN USING THIS
MEDICINE, it may cause a headache, which usually lasts for a short time.
With continued use of the medicine, headache usually becomes less
noticeable. LIMIT INTAKE OF ALCOHOL while taking this medicine. BEFORE YOU
BEGIN TAKING ANY NEW MEDICINE, either prescription or over-the-counter,
check with your doctor. This includes cough and cold products or diet aids
because they may contain ingredients that could increase your heart rate or
blood pressure. Ask your pharmacist about the safe use of these products.
WHILE YOU ARE USING THIS MEDICINE, brush and floss your teeth carefully to
reduce swelling and tenderness of your gums. CAUTION IS ADVISED WHEN USING
THIS MEDICINE IN THE ELDERLY because they may be more sensitive to the side
effects of the drug. FOR WOMEN: IF YOU PLAN ON BECOMING PREGNANT, discuss
with your doctor the benefits and risks of using this medicine during
pregnancy. IT IS UNKNOWN IF THIS MEDICINE IS EXCRETED in breast milk. DO NOT
BREAST-FEED while taking this medicine.
Possible Side Effects: SIDE EFFECTS,
that may go away during treatment, include nausea, fatigue, weakness,
stomach pain, drowsiness, muscle cramps, headache, or flushing. If they
continue or are bothersome, check with your doctor. CONTACT YOUR DOCTOR
IMMEDIATELY if you experience swelling of your feet or legs; tender,
bleeding, or swollen gums; worsening chest pain (attacks are more frequent,
more severe, or last longer); yellowing of the eyes or skin; dark urine; a
fast or irregular heartbeat; or difficulty breathing. AN ALLERGIC REACTION
TO THIS MEDICINE IS UNLIKELY, but seek immediate medical attention if it
occurs. Symptoms of an allergic reaction include rash, itching, swelling,
severe dizziness, or trouble breathing. If you notice other effects not
listed above, contact your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist.
