8. Erectile dysfunction
You’re not alone if you’re wondering, “Does amlodipine cause erectile dysfunction?” It’s a common question. While uncommon, some people have reported erectile dysfunction (ED) while taking amlodipine. However, it’s important to note that ED can have many other causes, including high blood pressure. And ED is more likely with other blood pressure medications, such as thiazide diuretics and beta blockers.
If you’re experiencing ED after starting amlodipine, let your healthcare team know. They can help determine the underlying cause(s) and best next steps.
Keep in mind that ED medications like Viagra (sildenafil) can interact with amlodipine, causing your blood pressure to drop. Check with your healthcare team before taking an ED medication with amlodipine.
9. Increased urination
Urination problems are possible with calcium channel blockers, including amlodipine. This is because they can interfere with how your bladder fills, contracts, and empties. You may notice that you need to pee more frequently or that you’re getting up at night to use the bathroom.
People with benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) may be more likely to experience urination problems with amlodipine. But this can happen to anyone taking the medication. Talk to your prescriber if this side effect starts affecting your quality of life. They may adjust your dosage or suggest an alternative medication.
10. Abdominal pain
Although it’s not particularly common, amlodipine can cause abdominal pain. In most cases, this is mild and resolves on its own.
In rare cases, severe stomach pain could be a symptom of pancreatitis. Seek immediate medical help if you’re having stomach pain with other symptoms, such as vomiting, fever, or jaundice (yellowing of skin and eyes). Acute pancreatitis can be life-threatening.
11. Low blood pressure
Amlodipine is supposed to lower your blood pressure. But sometimes, it may lower it too much. This is called hypotension. And it’s possible with any blood pressure medication.
Hypotension is more likely to happen with high amlodipine doses, or if you take amlodipine with other blood pressure medications.
Common symptoms of low blood pressure include blurred vision and feeling lightheaded or dizzy. A fast or irregular heart rate, confusion, and fainting are more serious symptoms that warrant emergency medical care.
When you first start taking amlodipine, your prescriber may ask you to occasionally check your blood pressure at home. If they do, ask them what an ideal blood pressure range is for you. And be sure to tell them if your numbers are too low (or too high). Your prescriber may suggest dose changes to one or more of your medications. But don’t try to adjust your amlodipine dosage without their OK.
12. Worsening chest pain or heart attack
In rare cases, amlodipine can worsen chest pain, or even raise the risk of a heart attack. This risk seems to be highest in people with severe CAD after starting amlodipine or raising their dose.
Despite these rare risks, amlodipine has been shown to lower the risk of serious cardiovascular events, including heart attacks.
Call 911 or seek immediate medical attention if you experience new or worsening chest pain.
13. Shortness of breath
Shortness of breath has been reported by some people taking amlodipine. There are a few things to keep in mind if this happens while taking amlodipine.
Exercise: Blood pressure medications can make you feel more tired than usual. And some can slow your heart rate, including amlodipine. So you may experience more breathlessness while exercising. Talk to your healthcare team about how to safely incorporate exercise into your routine.
Allergic reaction: While rare, it’s possible to be allergic to amlodipine or any of its inactive ingredients. In severe cases, this could cause a reaction called anaphylaxis. Shortness of breath is one of many possible anaphylaxis symptoms. Call 911 if you’re experiencing trouble breathing, along with swelling of the mouth, tongue, or throat.
Chest pain or heart attack: Shortness of breath that happens with severe or worsening chest pain can indicate something more serious, such as a heart attack.
Tell your prescriber if you experience persistent shortness of breath while taking amlodipine. Get emergency medical attention if it’s severe, especially when accompanied by symptoms such as chest pain.
14. BRASH syndrome
In rare cases, amlodipine can cause a serious complication called BRASH syndrome. “BRASH” stands for the condition’s five hallmark symptoms:
Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
Renal (kidney) failure
AV node blockade (a problem with your heart’s conduction system)
Shock (a sudden drop in blood flow)
Hyperkalemia (high potassium levels)
This side effect is more likely to affect older adults living with heart and kidney problems. BRASH syndrome can be difficult to diagnose because its symptoms can mimic other amlodipine side effects.
If you notice your heartbeat becoming very slow or uneven, and you start to feel lightheaded or faint, get medical help right away. If any symptoms feel severe or life-threatening, call 911 or go to the nearest ER. If caught early enough, BRASH syndrome is reversible. But if left untreated, it can be fatal.
Frequently asked questions
How can you reduce swelling from amlodipine?
There are a few ways to manage swelling from amlodipine. Examples include:
Elevating your legs throughout the day
Incorporating more movement into your daily routine to prevent fluids from pooling in your legs and ankles
Wearing compression socks to help push fluids out of your legs
Eating less salt, since it can cause you to hold onto more fluid
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