Amlodipine is a commonly prescribed medication used to treat high blood pressure and chest pain. While it is generally considered safe and effective, it is important to understand the potential interactions between amlodipine and other medications.
Tags: amlodipine, interactions, medications, blood pressure, chest pain, safety
What medications should not be taken with amlodipine?
Amlodipine can interact with a variety of medications, including:
- Simvastatin: Amlodipine can increase the levels of simvastatin in the body, increasing the risk of muscle pain and weakness.
- Grapefruit juice: Drinking grapefruit juice while taking amlodipine can increase the levels of the medication in the body, potentially leading to side effects such as dizziness and low blood pressure.
- Antibiotics: Certain antibiotics, such as clarithromycin and erythromycin, can increase the levels of amlodipine in the body, increasing the risk of side effects.
- Antifungal medications: Certain antifungal medications, such as ketoconazole and itraconazole, can increase the levels of amlodipine in the body, increasing the risk of side effects.
It is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist before taking any new medications while on amlodipine.
Tags: simvastatin, grapefruit juice, antibiotics, antifungal medications, interactions, side effects
What are the risks of taking amlodipine with other medications?
Taking amlodipine with other medications can increase the risk of side effects, including:
- Low blood pressure: Taking amlodipine with medications that lower blood pressure, such as beta-blockers, can increase the risk of low blood pressure.
- Kidney damage: Taking amlodipine with medications that can damage the kidneys, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), can increase the risk of kidney damage.
- Dizziness and lightheadedness: Taking amlodipine with medications that can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, such as benzodiazepines, can increase the risk of these side effects.
Tags: side effects, low blood pressure, kidney damage, dizziness, lightheadedness, beta-blockers, NSAIDs, benzodiazepines
That should you do if you are taking amlodipine and another medication?
If you are taking amlodipine and another medication, it is important to talk to your doctor or pharmacist about any potential interactions or side effects. Your doctor may adjust your medication doses or prescribe alternative medications to avoid these risks.
Tags: doctor, pharmacist, interactions, side effects, medication doses, alternative medications
Customer reviews:
"I have been taking amlodipine for years to control my high blood pressure. Recently, my doctor prescribed a new medication for my arthritis, and I was worried about the potential interactions. But my doctor explained everything to me and adjusted my doses, and I haven't had any problems."
"I made the mistake of drinking grapefruit juice while taking amlodipine, and I felt terrible. Dizzy, lightheaded, and nauseous. I learned my lesson and now I always check with my doctor before taking any new medications or supplements."