Medicine Information

Amlovas-VS

Name: Amlovas-VS
Brand: Amlovas-VS
Rating: 4.5 (117 reviews)

TabletAmlodipine 5 mg and Valsartan 80 mgAntihypertensive (Calcium Channel Blocker & Angiotensin II Receptor Blocker)ATC: C09DB01

Generic Name

Amlodipine and Valsartan

Manufacturer

Acme Laboratories Ltd.

Country

Bangladesh

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Price Details

Current market pricing information

Variant	Unit Price	Strip Price
amlovas vs 5 mg tablet	৳ 16.06	৳ 160.60

Description

Overview of the medicine

Amlovas-VS 5 mg tablet is a combination medicine containing Amlodipine (a calcium channel blocker) and Valsartan (an angiotensin II receptor blocker). It is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in adults. It helps to relax blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and thereby lowering blood pressure.

Uses & Indications

Treatment of essential hypertension in adults.

As a substitute for patients whose blood pressure is adequately controlled on amlodipine and valsartan taken as individual tablets.

Reduction of cardiovascular risk in hypertensive patients with left ventricular hypertrophy.

Dosage

Adults

The usual recommended dose is one tablet (Amlodipine 5 mg/Valsartan 80 mg) once daily. Dosage should be individualized and adjusted based on patient response.

Elderly

No special dosage adjustment is typically required, but caution should be exercised.

Renal_impairment

No initial dosage adjustment required for mild to moderate renal impairment. For severe impairment, caution is advised and dose adjustment may be necessary. Not recommended in patients undergoing dialysis.

How to Take

Take the tablet orally with a glass of water, once daily, with or without food. It is recommended to take it at approximately the same time each day.

Mechanism of Action

Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker that inhibits the transmembrane influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle. Valsartan selectively blocks the binding of angiotensin II to the AT1 receptor, inhibiting the vasoconstrictor and aldosterone-secreting effects of angiotensin II. Together, they lower blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the body's natural vasoconstrictor effects.

Pharmacokinetics

Onset

Within 2 hours for blood pressure reduction.

Excretion

Amlodipine: Primarily renal (60% as inactive metabolites). Valsartan: Primarily fecal (83%), renal (13%) as unchanged drug.

Half life

Amlodipine: 30-50 hours. Valsartan: ~6 hours.

Absorption

Amlodipine: Well absorbed, bioavailability 64-90%. Valsartan: Rapidly absorbed, bioavailability ~25%. Peak plasma concentrations within 2-4 hours for both.

Metabolism

Amlodipine: Extensively metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites. Valsartan: Minimally metabolized.

Side Effects

Contraindications

Hypersensitivity to amlodipine, valsartan, or any excipients.
Second and third trimesters of pregnancy.
Severe hepatic impairment, biliary cirrhosis or cholestasis.
Concomitant use with aliskiren in patients with diabetes or renal impairment (GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m²).

Drug Interactions

Lithium

Increased serum lithium concentrations and toxicity.

Diuretics and other antihypertensives

Increased antihypertensive effect.

NSAIDs (Non-Steroidal Anti-inflammatory Drugs)

May attenuate the antihypertensive effect and increase the risk of renal impairment.

CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, ritonavir)

Increased exposure to amlodipine.

CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin, St. John's wort)

Decreased exposure to amlodipine.

Potassium-sparing diuretics, potassium supplements, salt substitutes containing potassium

May lead to increased serum potassium.

Storage

Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.

Overdose

Symptoms may include excessive peripheral vasodilation with marked hypotension and possibly reflex tachycardia. Management involves symptomatic and supportive treatment, including monitoring of vital signs and hydration. In severe cases, intravenous fluids and vasopressors may be needed.

Pregnancy & Lactation

Not recommended during the first trimester of pregnancy and contraindicated during the second and third trimesters due to risk of fetal injury/death associated with valsartan. Amlodipine is Category C. Use in lactation is not recommended as it is unknown if valsartan is excreted in human milk, and amlodipine is excreted in breast milk.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about this medicine

Pack Sizes

30 tablets (3x10's)

Shelf Life

Typically 24 to 36 months from the date of manufacture.

Availability

Available in pharmacies nationwide

Approval Status

Approved by regulatory authorities (e.g., FDA/DGDA)

Patent Status

Generic versions available

Clinical Trials

The combination of Amlodipine and Valsartan has been extensively studied in clinical trials for its efficacy and safety in the management of hypertension, demonstrating superior blood pressure reduction compared to monotherapy.

Lab Monitoring

Regular monitoring of blood pressure.
Monitoring of renal function (serum creatinine, BUN) periodically.
Monitoring of serum potassium levels, especially in patients with renal impairment or those taking potassium supplements.

Doctor Notes

Advise patients on lifestyle modifications.
Monitor blood pressure regularly and adjust dose as needed.
Check renal function and serum potassium before and during therapy, especially in at-risk patients.
Counsel female patients of childbearing age regarding the risk of fetal toxicity if pregnancy occurs.

Patient Guidelines

Take the medicine exactly as prescribed by your doctor.
Do not stop taking the medicine suddenly without consulting your doctor.
Inform your doctor about all other medicines, supplements, and herbal products you are taking.
Report any unusual side effects or symptoms to your doctor immediately.

Missed Dose Advice

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not take a double dose to make up for a missed one.