Amlopres 5 mg (Amlodipine Besylate)

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:

• Hypertension (high blood pressure)

• Chronic stable angina

• Variant angina (Prinzmetal’s angina)

By relaxing blood vessels and improving blood flow, Amlopres 5 mg helps reduce cardiac workload and prevent chest pain.

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Uses of Amlopres 5 mg

• Control of high blood pressure to reduce the risk of stroke, heart attack, and kidney issues.

• Prevention and management of angina by increasing oxygen delivery to the heart muscle.

• Treatment of coronary artery disease (CAD), especially in patients not suitable for beta-blockers.

• Combination therapy: Used with other antihypertensives when monotherapy is inadequate.

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Benefits of Amlopres 5 mg

• Provides 24-hour blood pressure control with a single daily dose.

• Reduces chest pain episodes and improves exercise tolerance in angina patients.

• Has fewer side effects compared to other antihypertensives.

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How Does Amlopres 5 mg Work?

Amlodipine acts by:

• Blocking calcium influx into vascular smooth muscle cells, causing vasodilation.

• Reducing systemic vascular resistance, leading to a decrease in blood pressure.

• Improving myocardial oxygen delivery in patients with angina by dilating coronary arteries.

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How to Take Amlopres 5 mg

• Route: Oral

• Timing: Once daily, preferably at the same time.

• With or without food: Can be taken either way.

• Swallow whole with water; do not crush or chew.

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Dosage of Amlopres 5 mg

• Typical starting dose: 5 mg once daily.

• Maintenance dose: Can be increased to a maximum of 10 mg/day based on clinical response.

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Missed Dose and Overdose

Missed Dose:

• Take it as soon as remembered.

• If it’s almost time for the next dose, skip the missed one—do not double dose.

Overdose:

• Symptoms: Severe hypotension, dizziness, fast heartbeat, or fainting.

• Action: Immediate medical help is necessary. Hospitalization and supportive care may be needed.

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Available Strengths of Amlopres

• Amlopres 2.5 mg

• Amlopres 5 mg

• Amlopres 10 mg

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Side Effects of Amlopres 5 mg

Common:

• Swelling of ankles/feet (edema)

• Flushing

• Headache

• Dizziness

• Fatigue

• Nausea

Serious (Rare):

• Worsening angina or heart attack (especially at therapy initiation)

• Hypotension

• Allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling)

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Drug Interactions

Increased effects or toxicity with:

• CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin, grapefruit juice)

• Simvastatin (limit dose when used concurrently)

• Other antihypertensives—risk of additive blood pressure lowering

Reduced effects with:

• CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampin, carbamazepine)

• NSAIDs—may blunt antihypertensive effects

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Precautions

• Liver impairment: Dose adjustment may be needed.

• Pregnancy & lactation: Use only if prescribed by a doctor.

• Heart failure patients: Use cautiously; may increase risk of edema.

• Driving/machinery: Dizziness can occur—exercise caution.

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Storage Information

• Store at room temperature (15–30°C)

• Keep away from moisture, heat, and light

• Keep out of reach of children

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Availability in the US and Australia

• India: Available under the brand name Amlopres by Cipla.

• United States: Available as Amlodipine (generic) or brand name Norvasc.

• Australia: Available under several brands (e.g., Norvasc, APO-Amlodipine); Amlopres brand may not be directly marketed.

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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.