Amlodipine is a widely prescribed calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure, certain types of angina (chest pain), and coronary artery disease. It comes in both generic and brand-name forms, including Norvasc......See Full Story>>.....See Full Story>>
Amlodipine is also available as an oral suspension under the brand names Katerzia and Norliqva. If you are taking amlodipine, it’s essential to be aware of potential drug interactions.
Some interactions may require dose adjustments or monitoring for side effects, while others should be avoided entirely.
Here’s a look at 12 drug interactions with amlodipine:
Alprazolam Alprazolam (brand name Xanax) is often prescribed for anxiety and panic disorders. When combined with amlodipine, alprazolam levels in the body may increase, leading to enhanced sedation and breathing problems. If both medications are necessary, a lower dose of alprazolam and close monitoring may be required.
Barbiturates Drugs like phenobarbital, used to treat seizures, can interact with amlodipine by lowering its effectiveness. Barbiturates may decrease amlodipine levels in the body, requiring higher doses of amlodipine and careful blood pressure monitoring.
Certain Antifungal Medications Antifungals like fluconazole, ketoconazole, and itraconazole can elevate amlodipine levels, increasing the risk of side effects such as fluid retention and low blood pressure. If both are prescribed, dose adjustments and blood pressure monitoring may be necessary.
Certain Antibiotics Antibiotics like clarithromycin and erythromycin can interact with amlodipine, especially in older adults, leading to low blood pressure and kidney issues. If these antibiotics are needed, your healthcare provider may adjust your amlodipine dose or choose a safer alternative.
Certain Immunosuppressants Immunosuppressants like cyclosporine, tacrolimus, and sirolimus can increase amlodipine levels, potentially causing low blood pressure or increased side effects from the immunosuppressant. Dose adjustments and close monitoring are typically required.
Pseudoephedrine Pseudoephedrine, found in many over-the-counter cold medications, may counteract the blood pressure-lowering effects of amlodipine. This could lead to higher blood pressure and increased heart rate, so it’s best to consult your healthcare provider before using pseudoephedrine.
General Anesthetics Anesthetics used during surgery can amplify the effects of amlodipine, causing dangerously low blood pressure. Prior to surgery, make sure to inform your healthcare provider and anesthesiologist about all medications you are taking.
Oxymetazoline This ingredient in nasal decongestants like Afrin may interfere with amlodipine’s blood pressure-lowering effects. Speak to your healthcare provider before using any nasal sprays containing oxymetazoline.
Sildenafil Sildenafil (Viagra) and amlodipine both lower blood pressure, and using them together can cause blood pressure to drop too low. If prescribed together, your blood pressure will need to be carefully monitored.
Simvastatin and Lovastatin Statins such as simvastatin (Zocor) and lovastatin can interact with amlodipine, raising the risk of muscle damage and kidney problems. Your healthcare provider may prescribe a different statin or adjust the dose.
Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors (MAOIs) MAOIs like tranylcypromine (Parnate) may cause dangerously low blood pressure when combined with amlodipine. Close monitoring of your heart rate and blood pressure is necessary if this combination is prescribed.
Beta-Blockers Combining amlodipine with beta-blockers like metoprolol (Lopressor) may lower blood pressure too much, especially in people with heart conditions like aortic stenosis or arrhythmia. Close monitoring is needed to avoid complications.
Summary Amlodipine is an effective medication for managing high blood pressure and other heart-related conditions, but it can interact with various drugs. To ensure safe and effective treatment, always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs, vitamins, and supplements. Your provider can help adjust dosages or offer alternatives to minimize the risk of adverse interactions.