What is Amlopres 5 mg?
Amlopres 5 mg is a prescription medication containing Amlodipine Besylate, a long-acting calcium channel blocker (CCB) of the dihydropyridine class. It is primarily used to treat:
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Hypertension (high blood pressure)
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Chronic stable angina
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Variant angina (Prinzmetal’s angina)
By relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow, Amlopres 5 mg helps reduce cardiac workload and prevent chest pain.
Uses of Amlopres 5 mg
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Control of high blood pressure to reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney issues.
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Prevention and management of angina by increasing oxygen delivery to the heart muscle.
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Treatment of coronary artery disease (CAD), especially in patients not suitable for beta-blockers.
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Combination therapy: Used with other antihypertensives when monotherapy is inadequate.
Benefits of Amlopres 5 mg
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Provides 24-hour blood pressure control with a single daily dose.
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Reduces chest pain episodes and improves exercise tolerance in angina patients.
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Has fewer side effects compared to other antihypertensives.
How Does Amlopres 5 mg Work?
Amlodipine acts by:
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Blocking calcium influx into vascular smooth muscle cells, causing vasodilation.
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Reducing systemic vascular resistance, leading to a decrease in blood pressure.
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Improving myocardial oxygen delivery in patients with angina by dilating coronary arteries.
How to Take Amlopres 5 mg
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Route: Oral
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Timing: Once daily, preferably at the same time.
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With or without food: Can be taken either way.
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Swallow whole with water; do not crush or chew.
Dosage of Amlopres 5 mg
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Typical starting dose: 5 mg once daily.
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Maintenance dose: Can be increased to a maximum of 10 mg/day based on clinical response.
Missed Dose and Overdose
Missed Dose:
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Take it as soon as remembered.
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If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one—do not double dose.
Overdose:
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Symptoms: Severe hypotension, dizziness, fast heartbeat, or fainting.
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Action: Immediate medical help is necessary. Hospitalization and supportive care may be needed.
Available Strengths of Amlopres
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Amlopres 2.5 mg
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Amlopres 5 mg
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Amlopres 10 mg
Side Effects of Amlopres 5 mg
Common:
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Swelling of ankles/feet (edema)
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Flushing
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Dizziness
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Fatigue
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Nausea
Serious (Rare):
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Worsening angina or heart attack (especially at therapy initiation)
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Hypotension
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Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)
Drug Interactions
Increased effects or toxicity with:
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CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, grapefruit juice)
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Simvastatin (limit dose when used concurrently)
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Other antihypertensives—risk of additive blood pressure lowering
Reduced effects with:
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CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine)
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NSAIDs—may blunt antihypertensive effects
Precautions
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Liver impairment: Dose adjustment may be needed.
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Pregnancy & lactation: Use only if prescribed by a doctor.
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Heart failure patients: Use cautiously; may increase risk of edema.
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Driving/machinery: Dizziness can occur—exercise caution.
Storage Information
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Store at room temperature (15–30°C)
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Keep away from moisture, heat, and light
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Keep out of reach of children
Availability in the US and Australia
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India: Available under the brand name Amlopres by Cipla.
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United States: Available as Amlodipine (generic) or brand name Norvasc.
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Australia: Available under several brands (e.g., Norvasc, APO-Amlodipine); Amlopres brand may not be directly marketed.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I take Amlopres 5 mg long-term?
Yes. It is safe and effective for long-term use when prescribed and monitored by your doctor.
Q: When will I see improvement?
Blood pressure usually improves within 1–2 weeks; angina relief can occur within days.
Q: Is it safe to drink alcohol while taking Amlopres?
It’s best to limit alcohol as it can increase dizziness or lower your blood pressure further.
Q: What if I experience swelling in my legs?
Mild swelling is a common side effect. Report it to your doctor if it becomes uncomfortable or persistent.
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