Amlodipine
Tablet
Quick Summary
Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker. It relaxes and widens blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure and improves blood flow to the heart.
Medical Uses
How it's taken
Amlodipine is a tablet taken once a day, with or without food, at about the same time each day. Your doctor decides the right dose for you and may change it over time.
Keep taking it even if you feel well. Don't stop suddenly without talking to your doctor.
Your doctor decides the right dose for you. Follow their instructions and the label.
Common Side Effects
Swollen ankles
Fluid can build up in the ankles and feet.
Headache and flushing
A headache or feeling hot and red in the face, often in the first weeks.
Dizziness and tiredness
Especially at the start of treatment.
Palpitations
A pounding or fast heartbeat.
Interactions
Grapefruit juice
Can increase the amount of amlodipine in the blood.
Simvastatin
Amlodipine can raise simvastatin levels; your doctor may adjust treatment.
Some antifungals and antibiotics
Medicines such as clarithromycin can increase amlodipine's effects.
Critical Warnings
Severe chest pain
Black Box Warning: Get emergency help for chest pain that's new, worse or doesn't go away.
Liver problems
Tell your doctor if you have liver disease.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding
Talk to your doctor if you're pregnant, planning a pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Sources and further reading
Last updated 21 October 2026. For more detail, see these trusted health organisations.
- Amlodipine(opens in a new tab) · NHS
- Amlodipine: drug information(opens in a new tab) · MedlinePlus, US National Library of Medicine