Why is this medication prescribed?

Amvaz (generic name: Amlodipine) is a medication commonly prescribed for the following reasons:

• High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): It helps lower blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels so the heart doesn’t have to pump as hard.
• Angina (Chest Pain): It can be used to prevent angina attacks by improving blood flow to the heart.

Amlodipine is a type of calcium channel blocker, which works by blocking calcium from entering the heart and blood vessel cells, leading to the relaxation of the blood vessels and improved blood flow.

How should this medicine be used?

Amvaz (amlodipine) should be used according to your healthcare provider’s instructions. Here are some general guidelines for its use:

• Dosage: Take the medication exactly as prescribed. The usual starting dose is often 5 mg once daily, which can be adjusted based on your condition and response to the medication. The maximum recommended dose is 10 mg per day.
• Administration: It is taken orally, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not chew or crush the tablet.
• Timing: Take it at the same time each day to help remember and maintain even levels in your bloodstream.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose; do not double up to make up for a missed dose.
• Consistency: Continue taking the medication even if you feel well, as high blood pressure or angina may not always present with symptoms.
• Monitoring: Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider are important to monitor your blood pressure and adjust the dosage if necessary.

If you have any specific concerns or experience side effects, consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice.

Other uses for this medicine

Other Uses for Amvaz (Amlodipine):

• Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): Amlodipine may be used to manage CAD, which involves reduced blood flow to the heart muscle.
• Hypertensive Crisis: In some cases, it’s used to treat severe high blood pressure, often as part of a combination therapy with other medications.

What special precautions should I follow?

Special Precautions for Amvaz:

• Allergies: Inform your healthcare provider if you have any known allergies to amlodipine or any other medications.
• Medical History: Share your full medical history, particularly if you have liver disease, heart problems, or a history of low blood pressure.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Discuss with your doctor if you are pregnant, plan to become pregnant, or are breastfeeding, as amlodipine should be used with caution in these situations.
• Interactions: Inform your healthcare provider about all other medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and herbal supplements, to avoid potential interactions.
• Side Effects: Be aware of potential side effects such as dizziness, swelling of the hands or feet, or rapid weight gain. If you experience severe side effects or symptoms of an allergic reaction (e.g., rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing), seek medical attention immediately.
• Driving and Operating Machinery: Since amlodipine can cause dizziness or drowsiness, use caution when driving or operating machinery until you know how the medication affects you.
• Alcohol: Limit alcohol intake, as it can increase the risk of side effects like dizziness and low blood pressure.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s advice and ask them if you have any concerns or questions regarding your treatment with Amvaz.

What special dietary instructions should I follow?

• Sodium Intake: Maintain a balanced diet, but there are no specific dietary restrictions with amlodipine. However, a diet low in sodium can help in managing high blood pressure.
• Alcohol: Limit alcohol consumption, as it can enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect and increase the risk of side effects such as dizziness.

What should I do if I forget a dose?

• Timing: If you remember within a few hours of your missed dose, take it as soon as you can.
• Next Dose: If it’s almost time for your next scheduled dose, skip the missed dose; do not take two doses at the same time to make up for a missed dose.
• Routine: Return to your regular dosing schedule.

What side effects can this medication cause?

Amvaz (amlodipine) can cause a range of side effects. While many people tolerate the medication well, potential side effects include:

• Common Side Effects:
  • Swelling: Fluid retention leading to swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or legs.
  • Dizziness: Especially when standing up quickly.
  • Headache: Can be a common reaction.
  • Fatigue: Feeling unusually tired or weak.
  • Flushing: A warm feeling or redness of the skin.
• Less Common but Serious Side Effects:
  • Rapid or Irregular Heartbeat: Feeling your heart racing or beating irregularly.
  • Severe Dizziness: Which might lead to fainting or feeling very light-headed.
  • Chest Pain: Especially if it’s new or worsening.
  • Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or unusual wheezing.
  • Liver Problems: Symptoms might include jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes), dark urine, or abdominal pain.
  • Severe Allergic Reactions: Symptoms may include rash, itching/swelling, severe dizziness, or trouble breathing.
  • Gum Overgrowth: Swelling or enlargement of the gums.
  • Nausea: Feeling sick to your stomach.

If you experience any of these serious side effects, or if you have any concerns about your reaction to the medication, contact your healthcare provider promptly. For less serious side effects that persist or become bothersome, discussing them with your healthcare provider is also advisable.

What should I know about storage and disposal of this medication?

Storage of Amvaz (Amlodipine):

• Store Amvaz at room temperature, typically between 68°F and 77°F (20°C and 25°C).
• Keep it in its original container, tightly closed, and protect it from moisture and light.
• Store it out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.

Disposal of Amvaz:

• The best way to dispose of Amvaz is through a medication take-back program or a pharmacy that offers disposal services. Many communities have these programs.
• If no take-back programs are available, you can dispose of the medication in your household trash. To do this safely, mix the medication with an undesirable substance like used coffee grounds or cat litter, place it in a sealed plastic bag, and throw it away in your household trash.

In case of emergency/overdose

• Contact Emergency Services: If you suspect an overdose or experience severe symptoms, seek immediate medical attention or call emergency services.
• Symptoms of Overdose: Symptoms might include severe dizziness, fainting, rapid heartbeat, or significant swelling.

What other information should I know?

• Regular Monitoring: Regularly check your blood pressure and follow up with your healthcare provider to ensure the medication is working effectively and to adjust the dosage if necessary.
• Drug Interactions: Be aware of potential interactions with other medications and inform your healthcare provider of all drugs you are taking.
• Consistency: Take Amvaz consistently and at the same time each day to maintain stable blood levels of the medication.

Always consult your healthcare provider if you have questions or concerns about your medication, its effects, or its management.