G-Amlo
Generic Name
Amlodipine
Manufacturer
General Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
Country
Bangladesh
Loading images...
Price Details
Current market pricing information
| Variant | Unit Price | Strip Price |
|---|---|---|
| g amlo 5 mg tablet | ৳ 2.87 | ৳ 28.67 |
| g amlo 10 mg tablet | ৳ 4.60 | ৳ 46.00 |
Description
Overview of the medicine
G-Amlo (Amlodipine) is a long-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and various forms of angina (chest pain). It works by relaxing blood vessels so blood can flow more easily, and by increasing the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.
Uses & Indications
Dosage
Adults
Hypertension: Initial 5 mg once daily; max 10 mg once daily. Angina: 5-10 mg once daily.
Elderly
Initial dose 2.5 mg once daily; dosage should be increased cautiously.
Renal_impairment
No dose adjustment required for patients with renal impairment.
Hepatic_impairment
Lower initial dose (2.5 mg) is recommended in patients with hepatic impairment and should be titrated carefully.
How to Take
Take orally once daily, with or without food. Swallow the tablet whole with a glass of water. Do not crush or chew.
Mechanism of Action
Amlodipine selectively blocks the transmembrane influx of calcium ions into cardiac and vascular smooth muscle. This leads to peripheral arterial vasodilation, reducing peripheral vascular resistance, and consequently lowering blood pressure. In angina, it reduces total peripheral resistance and dilates coronary arteries, increasing myocardial oxygen supply.
Pharmacokinetics
Onset
Antihypertensive effect: gradual, peak in 6-12 hours. Full effect may take 7-14 days.
Excretion
Primarily excreted renally (60% inactive metabolites, 10% unchanged drug) and hepatically (20-25%).
Half life
Approximately 30-50 hours (long elimination half-life).
Absorption
Well absorbed orally (bioavailability 64-90%), not affected by food.
Metabolism
Extensively metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites (90%).
Side Effects
Contraindications
- Known hypersensitivity to Amlodipine or other dihydropyridines
- Severe hypotension
- Cardiogenic shock
- Obstructive outflow tract disease (e.g., severe aortic stenosis)
Drug Interactions
Simvastatin
Amlodipine increases Simvastatin exposure. Limit Simvastatin dose to 20 mg/day.
Sildenafil/Tadalafil (PDE5 inhibitors)
May potentiate the hypotensive effects of Amlodipine.
CYP3A4 inducers (e.g., Rifampicin, Carbamazepine)
May decrease Amlodipine plasma concentrations, potentially reducing its efficacy. Dose adjustment may be necessary.
CYP3A4 inhibitors (e.g., Ketoconazole, Itraconazole, Ritonavir)
Increased exposure to Amlodipine, potentially leading to increased hypotensive effects. Monitor blood pressure closely.
Storage
Store in a cool, dry place below 30°C. Protect from light and moisture. Keep out of reach of children.
Overdose
Overdose may result in excessive peripheral vasodilation with marked and potentially prolonged systemic hypotension and reflex tachycardia. Management is symptomatic and supportive, including cardiovascular monitoring, active charcoal, gastric lavage, intravenous fluids, and vasopressors if necessary. Calcium gluconate may be helpful.
Pregnancy & Lactation
Pregnancy Category C. Use only if potential benefit justifies potential risk to the fetus. Small amounts of Amlodipine are excreted in human milk; generally advised to avoid during breastfeeding or weigh benefits vs. risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about this medicine
Pack Sizes
Shelf Life
36 months from manufacturing date
Availability
Available in pharmacies nationwide in Bangladesh
Approval Status
DGDA approved
Patent Status
Off-patent
WHO Essential Medicine
YesClinical Trials
Amlodipine has been extensively studied in numerous clinical trials demonstrating its efficacy and safety in the treatment of hypertension and angina. Key trials include the ALLHAT trial and the CAMELOT trial.
Lab Monitoring
- Blood pressure monitoring: Regularly, especially during initiation and dose titration.
- Heart rate monitoring: Regularly, especially during initiation and dose titration.
Doctor Notes
- Monitor blood pressure regularly, especially in the elderly and patients with liver impairment.
- Assess for peripheral edema and educate patients on its management.
- Consider alternative antihypertensives if significant edema or other intolerable side effects occur.
Patient Guidelines
- Take G-Amlo exactly as prescribed by your doctor, usually once daily.
- Do not stop taking this medicine abruptly without consulting your doctor, even if you feel well, as it can worsen your condition.
- Report any significant swelling in your ankles or feet, severe dizziness, or chest pain to your doctor.
- Avoid grapefruit and grapefruit juice while on this medication.
Missed Dose Advice
If a dose is missed, take it as soon as you remember. If it is almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and resume 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 headache. Patients should be cautioned about operating machinery or driving until they know how the medication affects them.
Lifestyle Advice
- Adopt a healthy, low-sodium diet and engage in regular physical activity.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol consumption.
Alternative Medicines in Bangladesh
Similar medicines available in the market
Global Brand Names
International brand names for this medicine. Click a brand to search for detailed information.