Medicine
Fact-checked

At TheHealthBoard, we're committed to delivering accurate, trustworthy information. Our expert-authored content is rigorously fact-checked and sourced from credible authorities. Discover how we uphold the highest standards in providing you with reliable knowledge.

Learn more...

What is Amlodipine Besylate?

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Amlodipine besylate is a calcium channel blocker, a medication that blocks calcium signaling in the muscles to limit muscle contractions. Doctors usually prescribe amlodipine besylate to treat high blood pressure, and the medication can also be used for coronary artery disease and certain kinds of angina. This drug is available by prescription only, and it needs to be kept in a safe place out of reach of children and pets, as it can be dangerous in people who do not have hypertension.

For reduction of hypertension, this drug works by relaxing the overall peripheral resistance in the cardiovascular system, lowering blood pressure. The relaxation of the heart muscle seen in patients taking amlodipine besylate can also have benefits for people with heart problems. Patients usually start on a low dosage and gradually taper up to find the best dosage, one where the patient's blood pressure improves and side effects remain minimal.

Amlodipine  besylate is often prescribed to help lower blood pressure.
Amlodipine besylate is often prescribed to help lower blood pressure.

The safety of amlodipine besylate in pregnancy is a potential issue. Pregnant patients, along with people who have a history of liver disease, should discuss the precautions associated with this drug before taking it. There may be a more appropriate alternative with fewer risks for these patients. Common amlodipine side effects can include nausea, dizziness, and swelling of the extremities. Patients who faint, develop chest pain, or experience worsening symptoms should report these issues to their doctors to receive evaluation and treatment.

People who take amlodipine besylate may develop hypotension.
People who take amlodipine besylate may develop hypotension.

Known by brand names like Norvasc®, amlodipine besylate can be a standalone prescription or part of combination therapy. If a doctor prescribes multiple medications to a patient, it is important to review all the drugs the patient is taking to check for signs of bad drug interactions and other issues. Patients on multiple drugs may also need a pill organizer or other tools to help them keep track of their medications.

Patients on multiple drugs may benefit from using a pill organizer.
Patients on multiple drugs may benefit from using a pill organizer.

Doctors may advise patients with high blood pressure to pursue multiple means for controlling their hypertension. This can include introducing diet and exercise modifications into the patient's life. These can support the action of medications and keep blood pressure under control. If a high blood pressure medication does not appear effective in a patient, other medications may be tried. Most of these medications have an adjustment period where the patient may feel unwell as the blood pressure returns to a safer level, and it is important to not stop hypertension medications abruptly unless there is a compelling medical reason to do so.

Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...
Mary McMahon
Mary McMahon

Ever since she began contributing to the site several years ago, Mary has embraced the exciting challenge of being a TheHealthBoard researcher and writer. Mary has a liberal arts degree from Goddard College and spends her free time reading, cooking, and exploring the great outdoors.

Learn more...

Discuss this Article

Post your comments
Login:
Forgot password?
Register:
    • Amlodipine  besylate is often prescribed to help lower blood pressure.
      By: Rob
      Amlodipine besylate is often prescribed to help lower blood pressure.
    • People who take amlodipine besylate may develop hypotension.
      By: Monkey Business
      People who take amlodipine besylate may develop hypotension.
    • Patients on multiple drugs may benefit from using a pill organizer.
      By: Lisa F. Young
      Patients on multiple drugs may benefit from using a pill organizer.
    • Generally, doctors recommend resting blood pressure levels be below 120/80.
      By: dambuster
      Generally, doctors recommend resting blood pressure levels be below 120/80.
    • Hypertension is caused by large amounts of blood pumping heavily against the walls of the arteries, which may begin to narrow and weaken.
      By: Alexandr Mitiuc
      Hypertension is caused by large amounts of blood pumping heavily against the walls of the arteries, which may begin to narrow and weaken.
    • Pregnant patients should discuss amlodipine besylate with a doctor before taking it.
      By: Gabriel Blaj
      Pregnant patients should discuss amlodipine besylate with a doctor before taking it.
    • People who develop side effects to amlodipine besylate, like fainting or chest pain, will need to receive treatment from a doctor.
      By: Tyler Olson
      People who develop side effects to amlodipine besylate, like fainting or chest pain, will need to receive treatment from a doctor.
    • Amlodipine besylate can be prescribed to treat certain types of angina.
      By: hriana
      Amlodipine besylate can be prescribed to treat certain types of angina.