What are the side effects of amlodipine?

Updated February 21, 2017

Amlodipine is a prescription medication for the medical condition hypertension, which is also commonly known as high blood pressure. Amlodipine is also known by the brand names Norvasc, Lotrel and Lipinox. It is also used to treat angina, which is a type of severe chest pain. The medicine is considered a calcium channel blocker. Amlodopine (like most other medications and nutritional supplements) comes with the risk of side effects occurring, though they do not happen to everyone.

Common Side Effects

Many users of amlodipine experience minor side effects. These side effects are generally not perceived to be dangerous because they usually fade away very quickly (within a few days of starting the medicine, in general). If you find the side effects particularly unpleasant or uncomfortable, you should notify your doctor about them. These side effects include lingering dry cough; lightheadedness or dizziness upon standing or sitting; and swelling of the ankles, hands and feet.

Serious Side Effects

Serious side effects are less common but also possible. If you find yourself in the position of experiencing possibly dangerous side effects of amlodipine, you should get emergency medical care as soon as possible. Some often dangerous side effects of amlodipine include lingering or extreme nausea, chest ache, darker coloured urine, throwing up, diarrhoea, wheezing, abnormal exhaustion or weakness, yellowing of the eyes or the skin, extreme stomachache, muscle weakness, pain, cramps, chills, fever, persistent sore throat and abnormal weight gain.

Allergic Reactions

Allergic reactions are also classified as being severe effects of the medication. If you suspect that you are handling an allergic reaction to the medicine, it is vital that you get medical help for the matter. Some telling signs of allergic reaction to amlodipine include skin rash; tightness of the chest; swelling of the face, mouth, tongue and lips; problems with breathing; abnormal hoarseness; hives; and itchiness.


It is very important to refrain from consuming alcohol while taking amlodipine, for your own safety benefits. Alcohol can lower the blood pressure even more and can potentially raise the risk of a person experiencing amlodipine's various side effects.


If you have taken more than your appropriate dosage of amlodipine, you have overdosed and as a result must immediately seek medical assistance. Some warning symptoms of amlodipine overdose are extreme dizziness, passing out, and warm tingling sensations.


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