1. Swelling in your legs or ankles
Swelling of the legs or ankles is one of the most common amlodipine side effects. It happens because amlodipine dilates your blood vessels, which improves blood flow. But this can put pressure on smaller blood vessels (called capillaries), causing fluid to leak out into surrounding tissues. When it occurs, swelling usually happens in both legs.
Swelling is more likely to happen with higher doses of amlodipine (10 mg daily). And women were about 2 to 3 times more likely to report swelling compared to men during clinical trials.
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Talk to your prescriber if you experience swelling from amlodipine. They can determine if it’s likely from your medication or something else. Keep in mind that many other medications and health conditions can cause swelling in your legs, too.
They may recommend elevating your legs periodically throughout the day or trying compression socks. Other options may include lowering your amlodipine dose or switching you to a different medication.
2. Fatigue or drowsiness
Amlodipine may make you feel tired or fatigued. Unlike certain other side effects, this doesn’t seem to be related to the dose you’re taking. Less commonly, amlodipine can sometimes cause drowsiness.
It’s common for blood pressure medications to make people feel tired. Fatigue may improve over time as your body adjusts to the medication.
Most people take amlodipine once a day. If it’s making you tired or sleepy, try taking your dose in the evening. This may help limit daytime fatigue or drowsiness. Exercising regularly and making heart-healthy food choices can also help support daytime energy levels.
Tell your prescriber if fatigue or drowsiness is bothersome, or if it’s accompanied by other symptoms, such as shortness of breath or chest pain. These are potential symptoms of more serious amlodipine side effects.
3. Dizziness
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