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| Comprehensive Guide About Using the Tablet Amlodipine for Blood Pressure |
Hypertension or high blood pressure is a common and serious medical condition that affects millions of people. It is referred to as the "silent killer" because it typically presents no symptoms in its early stages. Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to severe health complications including heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems. To combat this condition, healthcare providers often prescribe medications and one of the commonly prescribed drugs is amlodipine.
What is Hypertension
Blood pressure is the force of blood exerting on walls of arteries. It's measured in millimetres of mercury (mm Hg) and consists of two stages.
a) Systolic Pressure:Higher number, representing force exerting by blood against arteries when heart beats.
b) Diastolic Pressure: The lower number, representing the force of blood in your arteries when your heart is at rest between beats.
Normally blood pressure is around 120/80 mm Hg. Hypertension is diagnosed when your blood pressure consistently remains at or above 130/80 mm Hg. It can be divided into two main types:
a) Primary Hypertension: It is the most common form with no recognizable cause. It develops gradually with passage of time.
b) Secondary Hypertension: It is due to an inner medical condition or medication. It tends to be appeared suddenly and results into higher blood pressure levels.
Amlodipine: A Common Antihypertensive Medication
The amlodipine is a medication in the class of drugs called calcium channel blockers. These drugs work by relaxing and widening the blood vessels, making it less difficult for the heart to pump blood. Amlodipine is especially potent in lowering blood pressure and is commonly prescribed for the treatment of hypertension. Here's the important things to know about amlodipine if you are using it to manage your blood pressure:
1. Mechanism of Action
Amlodipine works by blocking the influx of calcium into the smooth muscle cells that line blood vessels and the heart. By reducing calcium levels, it causes these muscles to relax, which results into the dilation of blood vessels and a reduction in blood pressure. This effect makes it easy for the heart to pump blood that flows more smoothly through the arteries.
2. Benefits of Amlodipine
a) Blood Pressure Control: Amlodipine effectively lowers blood pressure, lowering the risk of complications related to hypertension.
b) Reduction of Chest Pain (Angina): It is also used to treat angina, a condition characterized by chest pain or discomfort that occurs when the heart muscle does not receive enough blood.
c) Well-Tolerated: Amlodipine is generally well-tolerated, with relatively few side effects.
3. Dosage and Administration
Amlodipine is taken orally as a tablet, usually once daily. The dosage may change based on your specific medical condition and the advice of your health care professional. It can be administered with or without food. It is necessary to follow your health care provider's instructions regarding the dosage and schedule for taking amlodipine.
4. Side Effects
Like all medications, amlodipine may have side effects. Common side effects include:
a) Swelling of the ankles and feet (peripheral edema): This is a common side effect of amlodipine, although it doesn't affect everyone.
b) Dizziness: Amlodipine can cause dizziness, especially when you first start taking it.
c) Flushing or warmth in the face or neck: This is typically mild and transient.
Not everyone feels these side effects and many people bear amlodipine well. If you do feel side effects, it's important to report them to your health care professional.
5. Interactions with Other Medications
Amlodipine can interact with certain medications including other antihypertensive drugs. So, it is essential to inform your healthcare provider about all the medications you are taking. He can assess potential interactions and adjust your treatment plan accordingly.
6. Importance of Regular Check-Ups
If you are taking amlodipine for hypertension, regular check-ups with your health care professional are of vital importance. These will allow your health care professional to monitor your blood pressure, assess the effects of the medication and make any essential adjustments to your treatment plan.
7. Lifestyle Modifications
Amlodipine is potent drug for blood pressure management, but it is not a standalone solution. Lifestyle modifications exert a profound function in maintaining healthy blood pressure. These modifications include:
a) Diet: A heart-healthy diet composed of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can help lower blood pressure.
b) Physical Activity: Regular exercise can lead to better blood pressure control.
c) Stress Reduction: An efficient stress management techniques like meditation and deep breathing exercises can also help in blood pressure management.
8. Adherence to Medication
Regular taking your amlodipine as prescribed is necessary for efficient blood pressure control. Missing doses or discontinuing the medication without consulting your health care professional can results into uncontrolled blood pressure.
9. Long-Term Use
Hypertension is a long-term or chronic condition and it may require continuous treatment. Amlodipine is typically used as part of a long-term strategy for managing blood pressure.
10. Personalized Care
It is vital to recognize every individual's response to amlodipine. Your health care provider will adjust your treatment plan to your specific medical condition, medical history, and any side effects you may experience.