Amlodipine: Uses, actions, main adverse effects Flashcards
What drug class does amlodipine belong to?
Dihydropyridine calcium-channel blocker
What condition is amlodipine a first-line drug for?
Hypertension
Why is amlodipine commonly prescribed for diabetic patients?
First-line antihypertensive agent that can treat diabetic hypertension
Diabetic hypertension is a common comorbidity
What are the 3 main contra-indications against prescribing amlodipine?
Unstable angina
Aortic stenosis
Cardiogenic shock
What is unstable angina?
Acute coronary syndrome that causes chest pain and can lead to heart attack
What is aortic stenosis?
Aortic valve narrows so that blood can’t be pumped properly
What is cardiogenic shock?
Heart suddenly can’t pump blood to brain and vital organs
What is the mechanism of action of amlodipine, and what is the main physiological mechanism involved?
Inhibits calcium channels from opening in vascular smooth muscle walls, so calcium influx can’t stimulate muscle contraction
This maintains vasodilation
When amlodipine is administered, how does it affect the width of blood vessels?
Causes vasodilation so that width increases
What are the 2 common GI side effects of amlodipine?
Abdominal pain
Nausea and vomiting
What common side effect of amlodipine affects peripheral joints, and which joint is mostly affected?
Peripheral oedema
Most commonly causes swollen ankles
What 3 common side effects of amlodipine can affect patient’s energy?
Headaches
Dizziness
Drowsiness
What 2 common side effects of amlodipine affect a patient’s pulse rate?
Tachycardia
Palpitations (aware of missing, racing, pounding heartbeats)
What are the 4 rare side effects of amlodipine?
Syncope (fainting)
Depression
Erectile dysfunction
Paresthesia
What medical emergency occurs due to amlodipine overdose, and what are the 4 common signs?
Calcium channel blocker poisoning
Nausea, vomiting, confusion, coma (severe)
