Amocal
Generic Name
Amlodipine 5 mg
Manufacturer
Renata Limited
Country
Bangladesh
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Price Details
Current market pricing information
Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
---|---|---|
amocal 5 mg tablet | ৳ 5.00 | ৳ 70.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
Amocal 5 mg Tablet contains Amlodipine, a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker. It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and certain types of chest pain (angina pectoris). It works by relaxing blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Initial dose 5 mg once daily; max 10 mg once daily.
Elderly
Initial dose 2.5 mg once daily.
Renal_impairment
No dosage adjustment usually required.
How to Take
May be taken with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water.
Mechanism of Action
Amlodipine is a dihydropyridine calcium antagonist (calcium ion antagonist or slow-channel blocker) that inhibits the transmembrane influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle. This causes peripheral arterial vasodilation, reducing peripheral vascular resistance and blood pressure.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
6-12 hours for blood pressure lowering effect.
Excretion
Excreted primarily in urine as inactive metabolites (about 60%).
Half life
30-50 hours.
Absorption
Well absorbed from the GI tract (bioavailability 64-90%). Peak plasma concentrations are reached in 6-12 hours. Food does not affect absorption.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to amlodipine or other dihydropyridines
- Severe hypotension
- Cardiogenic shock
- Unstable angina (unless treated)
Drug Interactions
Tacrolimus
Increased tacrolimus blood levels; monitor tacrolimus concentrations and adjust dose.
Simvastatin
Amlodipine increases simvastatin exposure; limit simvastatin dose to 20 mg daily.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin)
May decrease amlodipine exposure.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin)
May increase amlodipine exposure, requiring dose adjustment.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms: Excessive peripheral vasodilation with marked hypotension and possibly reflex tachycardia. Management: Symptomatic and supportive treatment. If recent ingestion, gastric lavage may be considered. Administer activated charcoal. IV fluids and vasopressors may be needed for hypotension. Calcium gluconate may be beneficial.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Lactation: Amlodipine is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised.
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Hypersensitivity to amlodipine or other dihydropyridines
- Severe hypotension
- Cardiogenic shock
- Unstable angina (unless treated)
Drug Interactions
Tacrolimus
Increased tacrolimus blood levels; monitor tacrolimus concentrations and adjust dose.
Simvastatin
Amlodipine increases simvastatin exposure; limit simvastatin dose to 20 mg daily.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., rifampicin)
May decrease amlodipine exposure.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, erythromycin)
May increase amlodipine exposure, requiring dose adjustment.
Storage
Store below 30°C in a dry place, away from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Symptoms: Excessive peripheral vasodilation with marked hypotension and possibly reflex tachycardia. Management: Symptomatic and supportive treatment. If recent ingestion, gastric lavage may be considered. Administer activated charcoal. IV fluids and vasopressors may be needed for hypotension. Calcium gluconate may be beneficial.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy: Use only if the potential benefit justifies the potential risk to the fetus. Lactation: Amlodipine is excreted in human milk; caution should be exercised.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
Typically 24-36 months from manufacturing date.
Availability
Pharmacies, Hospitals
Approval Status
Approved by major regulatory bodies (e.g., FDA, DGDA)
Patent Status
Patent expired
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Extensive clinical trials have demonstrated amlodipine's efficacy and safety in hypertension and angina, including studies like ALLHAT and CAMELOT, showing cardiovascular benefits.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood pressure monitoring
- Heart rate monitoring
- Liver function tests (periodically)
Doctor Notes
- Counsel patients on potential ankle edema and its benign nature.
- Emphasize adherence to therapy for chronic conditions.
- Monitor blood pressure regularly, especially during initiation or dose changes.
Patient Guidelines
- Take this medicine regularly at the same time each day.
- Do not stop taking it suddenly without consulting your doctor.
- Inform your doctor about all other medications you are taking.
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.
Driving Precautions
Amlodipine may cause dizziness, fatigue, or visual disturbances. If affected, avoid driving or operating machinery.
Lifestyle Advice
- Maintain a healthy diet low in sodium and saturated fats.
- Engage in regular physical activity.
- Avoid smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
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Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.
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