Real stories: Three people describe what it’s like to take amlodipine, including how they managed side effects from the treatment.
Amlodipine interactions: Learn more about amlodipine interactions — from statins to Viagra — and how to manage them.
Talk to your prescriber if you experience swelling from amlodipine. They can determine if it’s likely from your medication or something else. Keep in mind that many other medications and health conditions can cause swelling in your legs, too.
They may recommend elevating your legs periodically throughout the day or trying compression socks. Other options may include lowering your amlodipine dose or switching you to a different medication.
2. Fatigue or drowsiness
Amlodipine may make you feel tired or fatigued. Unlike certain other side effects, this doesn’t seem to be related to the dose you’re taking. Less commonly, amlodipine can sometimes cause drowsiness.
It’s common for blood pressure medications to make people feel tired. Fatigue may improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication.
Most people take amlodipine once a day. If it’s making you tired or sleepy, try taking your dose in the evening. This may help limit daytime fatigue or drowsiness. Exercising regularly and making heart-healthy food choices can also help support daytime energy levels.
Tell your prescriber if fatigue or drowsiness is bothersome, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, such as shortness of breath or chest pain. These are potential symptoms of more serious amlodipine side effects.
3. Dizziness
3. Dizziness
Dizziness is another amlodipine side effect that’s more likely to happen with higher doses. You may also notice some dizziness as your body adjusts to the blood pressure changes from amlodipine, especially within the first few days of taking it. This should improve over time.
