Amlodipine - instructions for use, analogs, reviews and release forms of 5 mg and 10 mg tablets for the treatment of blood pressure and its reduction in adults, children and pregnancy

Cardiovascular pathology requires the prescription of medications. Today the most prescribed drug is Amlodipine. It has powerful antihypertensive (lowers blood pressure), anti-ischemic and antiarrhythmic effects.

But amlodipine often causes swelling of the feet and legs. This forces you to stop taking the medication in order to switch to an analogue. The article discusses how to replace Amlodipine if your legs swell or other undesirable reactions occur. The most common analogues are listed.

List of contraindications

We have reviewed the indications for the use of Amlodipine. Let's talk about contraindications. The medication is not prescribed for the following pathological and natural conditions of the body:

  • collapse;
  • severe arterial hypotension (if systolic pressure is less than 90 mm Hg);
  • severe aortic stenosis;
  • cardiogenic shock;
  • unstable angina (except Prinzmetal's angina);
  • lactose intolerance, lactase deficiency or glucose/galactose malabsorption;
  • age under 18 years;
  • lactation, pregnancy;
  • high sensitivity to amlodipine, other components of the drug or dihydropyridine derivatives.

The drug "Amlodipine" is prescribed with caution in case of impaired liver function, with severe tachycardia, bradycardia, chronic heart failure of non-ischemic origin, stenosis of the mitral or aortic valves, obstructive hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, acute myocardial infarction (and for 1 month after it), patients in old age

Which manufacturer is better?

As stated in the complete drug reference book, amlodipine is the basis of a medication that is produced in Germany and is called Norvasc.

When evaluating Amlodipine - which manufacturer is better - reviews often speak in favor of the German drug. But many patients respond positively to Amlodipine, produced in Hungary, Serbia, Belarus, India, Macedonia and the Russian Federation .

Perhaps the whole point is in the individual tolerability of this medicine or in the correct selection of the dose and adherence to the dosage regimen, but it is not easy to select from the manufacturers of Amlodipine which is better. Although you can focus on aspects that do not raise doubts - the more famous the pharmaceutical company, the higher the quality of its products, but the cost of these products can be tens of times higher.

Benefits and Side Effects

These inexpensive tablets are liked by most, both patients and experienced doctors. They are prescribed for the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension.

Amlodipine is preferred because it has a minimum of contraindications and side effects, and the drug has a number of advantages:

  • has a gentle effect on the body as a whole, pressure decreases gradually without sudden jumps;
  • to be in shape, the patient only needs to take one tablet in the morning on an empty stomach, or after a meal;
  • validity period – 28-32 hours. And it’s not scary if you miss one day of taking Amlodipine. There will be no sharp change in the picture of the disease;
  • does not affect cholesterol levels of any type in the patient’s blood;
  • These small tablets can reduce the risk of heart attack and stroke. Suitable for patients with diabetes;
  • the drug does not affect the heart rhythm in any way, and is perfectly combined with other dosage forms of the same category;
  • can be taken with anti-inflammatory drugs, the effect of amlodipine besylate will not be impaired by this combination.

According to numerous reviews from people suffering from hypertension, the drug generally justifies its price and quality. And it is directly effective for normalizing blood pressure.

But there are patients who have developed health problems after taking this drug.

All medicinal drugs, in addition to beneficial properties, also have side effects. Amlodipine should not be taken by people with lactose intolerance, with an allergic reaction to the active components of the substance, with low blood pressure and angina pectoris.

Amlodipine can cause loose gums, noise in the head, ears, problems with the gastrointestinal tract, and joint pain.

Under the supervision of the attending physician, patients with a heart attack, chronic insufficiency in the acute stage, liver failure, abnormal heart rhythm, and in old age take the tablets.

Among other things, taking pills becomes impossible if a person suffering from hypertension develops pain in the limbs and swelling of the legs. It is the active ingredient of this drug, amlodipine besylate, that gives such a reaction in some patients.

At what pressure should I take it?

Since the medication has vasodilating properties, it is worth asking at what pressure Amlodipine is recommended for use according to the instructions for use. But this document does not name specific blood pressure values ​​at which treatment with blood pressure tablets Amlodipine is indicated. If we focus on the indications for use, then arterial hypertension is one of the indications for the use of this drug. However, only a specialist can determine whether a patient has arterial hypertension.

You should consult a doctor, who will decide which drug is appropriate in a particular case, at what pressure to take Amlodipine according to the instructions for use for you personally.

Indications and contraindications

Due to the fact that Normodipine and Amlodipine are analogues, they have identical indications for use. The course of treatment is prescribed for:

  • arterial hypertension;
  • vasospastic angina (another name is Prinzmetal’s angina);
  • stable angina (stress).

Prinzmetal's angina

To eliminate the symptoms of any of the listed pathologies, monotherapy or complex treatment, including several medications, is used. The scheme and selection of methods are drawn up by specialists.

Medicines are not suitable for everyone. Therefore, patients should familiarize themselves with the list of contraindications:

  1. Cardiogenic shock.
  2. Arterial hypotension (severe low blood pressure).
  3. Hypersensitivity to the main active ingredient or intolerance to one of the excipients.
  4. Collapse.
  5. Unstable form of angina.

Cardiogenic shock

Normodipine is not recommended for use in diagnosing aortic stenosis. Pregnancy and lactation are also considered contraindications for use. To date, there is no information on the safety of taking drugs during pregnancy or breastfeeding.

In this regard, a specialist may prescribe pills if their benefits are much higher than the risk of complications in the development of the fetus. These medications are not used in pediatrics. They are prescribed to persons over 18 years of age.

Contraindications

The drug is strictly contraindicated for use in a number of cases:

  • during pregnancy, because the active component can penetrate the placental barrier;
  • during lactation - it has been scientifically proven that the substance is excreted in small quantities through breast milk;
  • with increased blood sugar;
  • with low blood pressure;
  • patients under 18 years of age;
  • with lactose intolerance;
  • with hypersensitivity to the components of the product.

If the patient has an allergic reaction for a long time, you should consult your doctor.

Structural analogues of Amlodipine

1. Amlotop (Serbia). Antihypertensive substitute and analogue of the drug Amlodipine with anti-ischemic action. Dilates the coronary arteries, thereby reducing the heart's need for oxygen. Stabilizes the center of blood pressure regulation.

In case of coronary heart disease, it improves the functional and structural state of the heart muscle.

Tablets 5 milligrams 30 pieces - 100 rubles, 10 ml - 210 rubles.

2. Kalchek (India). Increases the supply of oxygen to the myocardium. Improves blood supply during physical or emotional stress. This analogue of the drug Amlodipine is prescribed for the treatment of:

Arterial hypertension.

Angina syndrome.

Has a relaxing effect on vascular smooth muscles. If well tolerated, it allows you to reduce the intake of other auxiliary agents.

Tab. 5 ml 3 pieces - 180 rubles, 10 ml - 310 rubles.

3. Tenox (Slovenia). One of the best generics. In terms of therapeutic equivalence, it is closest to the original amplodipine (Norvasc). Reduces peripheral vascular resistance. Creates conditions for oxygen to enter the myocardium.

Reduces the likelihood of developing angina symptoms.

Combines well with other medicinal medications.

Tab. 5 ml 3 pieces - 270 rubles, 10 ml - 480 rubles.

4. Cardilopin (Hungary). Another high-quality analogue of Amlodipine tablets stabilizes the condition of patients with hypertension. It has a direct relaxing effect on smooth muscle cells inside the vascular wall.

In patients with arterial hypertension, it improves blood pressure regardless of body position.

The therapeutic effect develops slowly, preventing a sharp drop in pressure.

Table 5 mg No30 - 350 rub., 10 mg - 610 rub.

5. Normodipin (Hungary). A one-time dose ensures the effect of the medicine throughout the day. Reduces the severity of myocardial ischemia. Reduces pressure levels gradually without sudden jumps.

Relaxes the smooth muscle muscles of the arteries, preventing their spasm.

Does not have a negative effect on metabolism. The effectiveness of treatment largely depends on an adequately selected dosage.

Table 5 mg No30 - 370 rub., 10 mg - 680 rub.

6. Norvask (USA). The original drug is an analogue and substitute for Amlodipine from the American company Pfizer. Well researched. Quickly normalizes blood pressure to target levels with a single dose for up to 24 hours.

Has a prolonged effect due to a long half-life. In this regard, it is well suited for evening use in patients with nocturnal hypertension.

Prescribed in monotherapy and in a combination treatment regimen. Well tolerated. The disadvantages include high cost.

Tablets 5 milligrams 30 pieces - 470 rubles, 10 ml - 980 rubles.

How to normalize blood pressure if Amlodipine does not work?

Although hypertensive patients are quite satisfied with the price of Amlodipine, the sharp deterioration in well-being caused by taking it makes them think about what can replace it without loss of effectiveness. There are such medicines, and there are quite a lot of them, but they usually cost an order of magnitude more.

Important: it is forbidden to stop taking Amlodipine on your own and abruptly, since after 5-6 days blood pressure may jump to critical limits. It is necessary to stop using it gradually and first find an alternative.

Here are drugs that are almost complete analogues of Amlodipine in action (however, replacing one drug with another can only be done with the doctor’s permission):

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  • Lerkamen. A new drug from the same nifedipine family. Its main active substance is lercandipine hydrochloride. It has a long-lasting effect and is taken only once a day. With long-term use, it slows down pathological changes in vascular walls, produces a pronounced anti-ischemic effect and has a cardioprotective effect. Does not provoke tachycardia. Causes unwanted reactions much less frequently than other drugs of similar action (clinical studies have shown that this happens 2-11 times less often than with treatment with Amlodipine). It is not cheap: a pack of 28 tablets of 10 mg will cost 320 rubles; the same number of pills, but 20 mg each, is sold for 550 rubles. If the pack contains 60 tablets (20 mg), then you will have to pay 1000 rubles;
  • Normodipin. It has a hypotensive and antianginal effect and contains amlodipine. Stabilizes blood pressure for 24 hours. Costs from 350 to 420 rubles. (almost 10 times more expensive than its “colleague”);
  • Cardilopin. Also developed on the basis of amlodipine. It has a prolonged effect, keeps pressure within acceptable limits for 24 hours. Sold at prices from 345 to 500 rubles;
  • Norvasc. An absolute “double” of the drug in question in composition (includes the same amlodipine). But it has the same number of side effects, and the cost is 260-340 rubles;
  • Perindopril (RUB 150-330) Helps with high blood pressure and coronary artery disease, in addition, it is prescribed to prevent recurrent strokes. The main component is perindopril argonine. Usually the medicine is well tolerated, undesirable effects (usually a dry cough) are rare;
  • Lisinopril (RUB 70-230) One of its main advantages is that it is approved for people with diabetes. The active ingredient is lisinopril.

The list of medications containing amlodipine or another component that helps hypertensive patients bring themselves to their senses can be continued: Cordi Cor, Amlodipine, Kalchek, Stamlo, Tenox, Amlovas, Amlong, Acridipine, Amlodigamma, Enalapril. The indications for their use are identical, but, unfortunately, they can all cause quite serious side effects.

The difference between drugs of the same type lies in the degree of purification and additional components. If this is the case, then you can look for a replacement for Amlodipine among synonymous drugs. Sometimes it happens that the expensive original actually turns out to be healthier than the generic.

Side effects

Amlodipine may cause the following adverse reactions:

  1. Cardiovascular system: peripheral edema (mainly swelling of the feet and ankles), palpitations, excessive decrease in blood pressure, vasculitis, orthostatic hypotension, development or worsening of chronic heart failure, disturbances in the rhythm of heart contractions (ventricular tachycardia, slow pulse , atrial fibrillation), pain in the chest, myocardial infarction, migraine.
  2. Central nervous system: headaches, fatigue, dizziness, malaise, asthenia, fainting, paresthesia, hypoesthesia, tremor, peripheral neuropathy, emotional lability, insomnia, unusual dreams, depression, nervousness, anxiety, convulsions, agitation, apathy, amnesia, ataxia.
  3. Visual organs: diplopia, blurred vision, changes in accommodation, xerophthalmia, pain in the eyeballs, conjunctivitis.
  4. Hematopoietic system: leukopenia, thrombocytopenia, thrombocytopenic purpura.
  5. Respiratory system: rhinitis, shortness of breath, cough.
  6. Digestive organs: nausea, abdominal pain, vomiting, defecation disorders (including flatulence, constipation), dyspepsia, diarrhea, dry mouth, anorexia, thirst, taste perversion, gum hyperplasia, increased appetite, gastritis, hyperbilirubinemia, pancreatitis, jaundice (cholestatic), increased liver transaminase activity, hepatitis.
  7. Urinary system: nocturia, painful urge to urinate, pollakiuria, polyuria, dysuria.
  8. Mammary glands and reproductive system: impotence, symptoms of gynecomastia.
  9. Musculoskeletal system: muscle cramps, arthralgia, arthrosis, myalgia (with prolonged use), myasthenia gravis, back pain.
  10. Skin: increased sweating, sticky cold sweat, xeroderma, dermatitis, alopecia, purpura, changes in pigmentation.
  11. Allergic phenomena: rashes, skin itching, angioedema, erythema multiforme.
  12. Other: ringing in the ears, changes in body weight, nosebleeds, chills, hyperglycemia, parosmia.

What is the difference and which is better for reducing blood pressure?

What drug should hypertensive patients choose? Your doctor will help you make the right choice. But if in this case it turns out that the medication is not suitable for you, what can you replace Amlodipine with? There are several dozen options for replacing and analogues of Amlodipine.

Amzaar

Korean-made white or pinkish Amzaar tablets are a combination of two active ingredients - amlodipine and losartan, respectively BMCC and an angiotensin II inhibitor.

This is a significant difference between the medication and the one under consideration, since complex treatment is traditionally considered more effective. The medication is one of the newest high-quality antihypertensive drugs, as evidenced by its high price, but is not a direct analogue of Amlodipine.

Amlodipine Prana

White or cream-colored oblong tablets Amlodipine-Prana are produced in the Russian Federation and are a direct substitute for Amlodipine, containing only this active substance in their composition. This is one of the cheapest options for Amlodipine that can replace the original drug.

Amlodipin-Teva

Easily recognizable by their appearance, white round Amlodipine-Teva tablets are produced by the Hungarian branches of the Israeli pharmaceutical enterprises Teva. You can recognize them by the engraving on one of the sides - “AB 5” (or 10, depending on the dosage of the active ingredient in the pill). This is a direct substitute for the medicine in question.

Amlorus

The Russian drug Amlorus is also a structural substitute for Amlodipine. It is a white, flattened, cylindrical tablet. Amlorus is available in three dosages: 2.5 mg, 5 mg and 10, which is convenient for patients with impaired liver function who are indicated for small doses, especially at the initial stage of therapy.

Amlotop

Similar to Amlorus and other Russian pills for arterial hypertension - Amlotop. They are available in dosages of 5 and 10 mg and look like flattened cylindrical pills with a score in the middle. The excipients also contain lactose, as the instructions for use warn about. They are a direct analogue of Amlodipine.

Aprovask

Another Russian drug, produced in dosages of 5 and 10 mg, is Aprovask. These are whitish cylindrical pills, flattened and divided by a groove in the middle. The composition contains milk sugar and other auxiliary components, which are not much different from the ingredients of similar medications.

Vamloset

The Russian combination medicine Vamloset is interesting for its composition. It contains amlodipine (a calcium channel blocker) and valsartan (an angiotensin II enzyme blocker) and is available in five dosages:

  • 5 + 80 mg (round yellowish-brown pills);
  • 5 + 160 mg (oval brown-yellow);
  • 5 + 320 mg (orange-brown capsules);
  • 10 + 160 mg (oval brown-yellow);
  • 10 + 320 mg (brown-yellow capsules).

Dosage variability facilitates more careful individual selection of doses for the treatment of arterial hypertension. This disease is indicated in the instructions for use as the only indication for the use of Vamloset.

Vero-Amlodipine

A feature of Russian Vero-Amlodipine tablets is the absence of lactose in the auxiliary components, so patients with intolerance to this carbohydrate can be treated with this medication. In all other respects, the drug is similar to the original one.

Dalneva

The active ingredients of Russian-made Dalneva tablets are amlodipine and perindopril (ACE inhibitor). Available in dosages:

  • 5 + 4 mg - round whitish tablets;
  • 10 + 4 mg - white or whitish convex capsule-type tablets with a score on one side;
  • 5 + 8 mg - white tablets, convex on both sides;
  • 10 + 8 mg - whitish tablets with a score on one side.

This combination product does not contain lactose.

Kalchek

A structural analogue of Amlodipine made in India, Kalchek, also does not contain lactose as excipients. This means that it can be safely used in the treatment of patients intolerant of this carbohydrate. Kalchek tablets are round in shape and white in color.

Cardilopin

The Hungarian structural analogue of Amlodipine is flat white or yellowish flattened round-shaped tablets Cardilopin. They are available in three dosage options, as evidenced by the engraving on the surface of the tablets:

  • 2.5 mg - embossed “251”;
  • 5 mg – “252” engraved;
  • 10 mg - number “253”.

On the side opposite the numbers on tablets with any dosage, an “E” is engraved.

Ko-Dalneva

Ko-Dalneva’s drug is also intended for the treatment of arterial hypertension. No other indications are indicated in the instructions for use of the drug. This is a combined antihypertensive drug consisting of the BMCC amlodipine, the diuretic indapamide and the ACE inhibitor perindopril erbumine. Available in several dosages and does not contain lactose.

Co-Exforge

Another combination drug produced by a Swiss company is also available in a polyvariant dosage of three active ingredients: amlodipine, valsartan (angiotensin II receptor antagonist) and hydrochlorothiazide (diuretic). In the instructions for use, the only indication for use is arterial hypertension; there is no lactose in the composition.

Lortenza

The active ingredients of the Russian drug Lortenza are amlodipine and the angiotensin II receptor antagonist losartan. The tablets are available in several dosage options and have the form of oval pills ranging from white and light yellow to reddish-brown.

Norvask

When patients ask which is better, Amlodipine or Norvasc, there is only one answer - Norvasc is the original drug with the active ingredient amlodipine. It is produced in Germany and its quality and effectiveness are beyond doubt.

However, the price of this drug is quite high, so not all patients can afford prolonged therapy with this drug.

Normodipine

White, oblong-round tablets of Normodipine contain one active ingredient and are marked with “5” or “10” embossed, depending on the dosage. If you compare Normodipine and Amlodipine, what is the difference, there are not too many differences. One of the few is the absence of lactose in the auxiliary ingredients.

Prestance

White Prestance tablets have various geometric shapes (including triangular and square) and engraving indicating the dose (4 options in total) of the active ingredients - amlodipine and perindopril - on one surface. The opposite side is occupied by the manufacturer's logo.

Twinsta

According to the instructions for use, amlodipine and telmisartan (angiotensin II receptor antagonist) are the main components of the German drug Twynsta. These are oval tablets, two-layer (white and blue-gray), not coated, smooth on one side and marked “A1” - “A4” on the other. Intended for the treatment of hypertension.

Tenox

Russian branches of the Slovenian company KRKA produce drugs with the active ingredient amlodipine maleate in dosages of 5 and 10 mg. These are white, round pills with a score line on one side. Indications for use according to the instructions are similar to Amlodipine.

Tenochek

The Indian pharmaceutical industry drug Tenochek contains 2 main ingredients - BMCC and the beta-blocker atenolol. These are flat, round pills with a dividing groove on one side. Application: therapy of hypertension and prevention of angina attacks.

Triplixam

The multicomponent drug Triplixam is produced in the Russian Federation and Ireland using the technologies of the French company Servier Laboratories. The basis is amlodipine besilate, the diuretic indapamide and the ACE inhibitor perindopril arginine. Several dosage options. There is no lactose in the composition.

Egipres

BMCC and ACEI ramipril are a successful combination of active ingredients in the drug Egipres. Available in the form of gelatin capsules from light pink to dark burgundy with a “filling” of white powder and granules. 5 dosage options, no lactose.

Equacard

For the treatment of essential hypertension (primary hypertension of unknown origin), according to the instructions for use, Indian pills Eucacard are cylindrical in pink and white colors with a mark on one side. 2 dosage options. Contains lactose.

Equamer

The Hungarian drug Equamer is the first (at the level of evidence-based medicine) poly-tablet with a fixed combination of BMCC, an ACEI (lisinopril) and a statin (rosuvastatin). The pills are available in the form of capsules from light pink to dark purple, in 4 dosage options. Expanded list of indications for use. Contains lactose.

Equator

Hungarian Equator tablets are a combined drug (BMCC and ACEI lisinopril) and are available in three dosage options. According to the instructions for use, they are intended for the treatment of essential hypertension. Appearance: whitish round pills with a groove on one side and “A+L” markings on the opposite side.

Exforge

Exforge tablets complete our fascinating journey through analogues and substitutes of Amlodipine, indicated in the treatment of hypertension. Exforge, according to the instructions for use, contains 2 active ingredients: amlodipine and the angiotensin II antagonist valsartan, does not contain lactose. Available in three dosages in the form of round and oval pills of various shades of yellow, but on one of the flat surfaces of which “NVR” is engraved. Indications for use: hypertension.

Main differences, effectiveness and safety

Often patients have a question about how one medication differs from another, because they are developed on the same substance and have a similar mechanism of action. The main difference is the cost. Normodipine is much more expensive than Amlodipine. The high price of the medicine corresponds to its quality. The drug is produced by a proven and reliable company. Therefore, patients can be sure that they will not buy a fake.

Amlodipine is a product of a Russian manufacturing company. Today you can find not much information about it, and therefore some patients doubt the quality of the drug.

Considering the significant difference in price and list of components, the question arises which is better - Normodipine or Amlodipine. Both drugs cope with the task assigned to them. They lower blood pressure and dilate the walls of blood vessels. According to experts, both drugs have a high level of effectiveness.

The only difference is in the manifestation of adverse reactions. The list of negative effects of Amlodipine is much longer than that of Normodipine. The second medication is better tolerated by patients and is much less likely to lead to negative reactions from the body.

Normodipin is produced by a Hungarian company. High quality components are used in the manufacturing process. For this reason, negative effects are extremely rare. If taken incorrectly or allergic to the components, various dysfunctions of the internal systems of the body may occur.

NormodipineAmlodipine
DrowsinessNausea, dry mouth
VomitTachycardia, chest pain
Fainting conditionsPainful urination
Frequent urge to urinateExacerbation of heart failure
Dermatitis/urticariaMyalgia
Increased heart rateArthrosis
Feeling of aching jointsApathy
Tremor
Pancreatitis

Judging by patient reviews, adverse reactions when using Russian drugs are much more common.

Reviews from patients who took the drug

Analysis of reviews about Amlodipine is unlikely to please the manufacturers of this medication. In contrast to the assessments of doctors, who are distinguished by restraint, the opinions of patients were divided into diametrically opposed ones.

  1. Among those who took Amlodipine according to the instructions for use, there are practically no people who consider the medication to fully comply with the information contained in the instructions. For example, they write that Amlodipine is not indicated for use during a hypertensive crisis, but patients noticed that this medicine very quickly, and most importantly, significantly reduces blood pressure.
  2. There are no reviews about the compatibility of Amlodipine and alcohol, which indicates the literacy of patients taking antihypertensive drugs. There can be no talk of any such combination.
  3. A small proportion of patients named Amlodipine as an integral part of their daily medication list. They use these pills as prescribed by the doctor after individually selecting the dose of amlodipine. Reviews from patients who took the drug according to an individually selected regimen are usually positive.
  4. Most of the patients who have tried this BMCC on themselves are dissatisfied with the severity of the side effects. The most common are: fatigue, severe general malaise, problems with the eyes and joints, swelling of the legs. Some patients call this medication a “terrible drug.”
  5. Negative reviews are also caused by side effects such as skin itching and rashes. After such undesirable manifestations, patients switched to the drug amlodipine under the trade name Norvasc, which was much better tolerated by them.

By the way, doctors write about the same thing. They point out the questionable quality of the medicine, which is 100 times cheaper than the original.

List of substitutes

Amlodipine is a Russian-made medication that has a low price and is available to a wide range of patients. There are contraindications, so you can find a replacement among analogues. Russian analogues with the least side effects:

Amlotop

The active ingredient in Amlotop is amlodipine benzilate. It is a first-line drug in the treatment of high blood pressure. Can be used in monotherapy, as well as in complex treatment of hypertension.

It is used in the treatment of coronary heart disease (CHD), angina pectoris, and also as a prophylaxis for fatal and non-fatal types of strokes and heart attacks. Prescribe medication for vasospasms or vasoconstriction. It is prohibited to use during pregnancy and lactation, as well as for children under 18 years of age.

Amlodifarm

The medication increases the flow of oxygen molecules into myocardial cells in patients with vasospastic angina, and also has an effect on blood flow and the functioning of cardiomyocytes:

  • prevents the development of coronary spasm;
  • reduces the frequency and intensity of angina attacks;
  • has a long-term hypotensive effect;
  • The vasodilating effect promotes peripheral arteriolar resistance, which reduces the symptoms of Raynaud's syndrome.

Lercanidipin-SZ

A Russian drug containing the active substance of the same name, which is BMCC. Lercanidipine relaxes smooth muscle cells in the walls of blood vessels and has virtually no effect on the heart muscle. Reduces blood pressure gradually, while protecting the kidneys from the effects of hypertension. Lercanidipine-SZ and domestically produced analogues - Lercanorm, Lernikor - medicines for “pressure” with the least side effects. They are prescribed for the treatment of grade 1 and 2 hypertension.

Pharmacodynamic characteristics

As already mentioned, the main component is classified as BKK (second generation). It demonstrates antihypertensive and antianginal effects. It interacts with dihydropyridine receptors, disables Ca channels, and reduces the transmembrane current of Ca ions into the cellular space.

The antianginal factor is associated with the expansion of coronary and also peripheral arteries/arterioles. With existing angina, the component reduces ischemic severity by dilating the arterioles of the periphery, it lowers the peripheral vascular resistance. It has been proven that the ingredient minimizes preload on the heart muscle and also reduces the oxygen demand of the myocardium.

The substance is inherent in dilating the main coronary arteries/arterioles in unaffected areas of the myocardium, as well as those that have undergone ischemia, which avoids the progression of arterial constriction.

The basic component shows a long-lasting dose-dependent antihypertensive effect. It can be explained by a direct vasodilating effect on vascular smooth muscle tissue. For hypertension, a single dose provides a clinically significant decrease in blood pressure throughout the day. It does not provoke a rapid drop in blood pressure, but it also does not reduce the tolerance to physical activity, as well as the left ventricular ejection fraction.

The component allows you to reduce the degree of left ventricular hypertrophy and can act as a means of cardioprotective and antiatherosclerotic action in case of cardiac ischemia.

Amlodipine does not affect myocardial contractility and conductivity, nor does it result in a reflex change in heart rate. It slows down platelet aggregation, increases glomerular filtration rates, and has a natriuretic effect (albeit weak). It does not negatively affect the metabolism and lipids of the plasma part of the blood.

You need to wait two to four hours for the effect, but the total duration of action of one serving is a day.

Instructions for use and interaction with other products

The dosage is calculated as follows:

  1. The standard instructions indicate that Amlodipine is taken orally once a day. The initial dose should not exceed 5 mg. Over the course of 10-14 days, if necessary, it can increase to 10 mg.
  2. Patients diagnosed with arterial hypertension are recommended to take 2.5 mg as a maintenance dose. The same amount of the drug is prescribed to people with low body weight, short stature or old age.
  3. In the presence of heart failure (chronic), the initial dose is 2.5 mg. If the patient tolerates the drug well, the dosage is increased to 10 mg.
  4. For angina pectoris and arterial hypertension, Normodipine is taken 5 mg once a day. The maximum amount is 10 mg. At the end of the course of therapy, doses are gradually reduced. This will help avoid withdrawal symptoms.
  5. Dosage adjustments should be made by a specialist. Self-medication can lead to a sharp decrease in blood pressure and a deterioration in general condition.

The main component included in these dosage forms can lead to various reactions when used simultaneously with other drugs. Features of complex use of Normodipin with:

  • ACE inhibitors, thiazide diuretics - the hypotensive effect of tablets is enhanced;
  • anti-cold medications - the level of concentration of the active component in the blood increases;
  • arrhythmic drugs - the negative ionotropic effect is noticeably enhanced;
  • lithium – patients experience nausea, tinnitus, tremors, disorders of the gastrointestinal tract;
  • Cimetidine, Digoxin, Cyclosporine – no obvious changes in the pharmacokinetics of the drug were recorded.

The interaction of Amlodipine with various medications is characterized by similar features, since both drugs are based on the same component. Experts consider it safe to combine the substance with classic NSAIDs, antianaginal medications, as well as hypoglycemic and antibacterial medications.

Why do you have to change an effective drug?

Before analyzing analogues of amlodipine, let's consider the instructions for use, price and reviews of this popular remedy.

Amlodipine is an active substance in itself. The drug of the same name is produced in Russia. It belongs to the second generation of drugs from the nifedipine group. The medicine is indicated for hypertension and angina pectoris. Just one tablet a day will qualitatively lower your blood pressure for a day without increasing your heart rate. This is a convenient and good drug with an affordable price - 45-50 rubles.

It is usually taken according to the following regimen: 5 mg once a day, maximum 10 mg at a time. The maintenance dose is 1/2 or a whole tablet (5 mg) per day. But the medicine showed a big drawback - many adverse reactions. Most often it provokes edema, tachycardia, flushing of the face, shortness of breath, headache, fatigue, nausea, dizziness, stool disorders, cough, and convulsions. And this is only a small part of the possible adverse reactions.

Not all patients with blood pressure can take advantage of the healing “abilities” of Amlodipine. It is prohibited for pregnant and lactating women, hypotensive patients, children under 18 years of age, people with unstable angina and individual intolerance to its components.

Pharmacokinetic characteristics

What else does the instructions for use of Amlodipine tell us? During oral administration, the active component is well absorbed from the structures of the digestive system. Eating food does not affect its absorption processes. The time to reach the highest concentration of the active substance in the blood serum is 6–12 hours. Bioavailability ranges from 60 to 65%. The drug binds to plasma proteins by 90–97%. The approximate volume of distribution is 21 l/kg patient weight.

Amlodipine can cross the blood-brain barrier. It is slowly metabolized (90%) in the liver to inactive metabolites. The half-life of this substance averages 35–50 hours, which corresponds to its use once a day. After approximately 7–8 days of treatment, an equilibrium stable concentration of the main element in the plasma is achieved. The drug is excreted by the kidneys, as well as in the form of metabolites with bile and through the intestines. This is confirmed by the instructions for Amlodipine.

Hemodialysis does not remove amlodipine. In case of liver failure or severe forms of chronic heart failure, as well as in elderly people, the half-life is slightly increased and can be up to 60–65 hours. In cases of renal dysfunction, this indicator does not change.

Composition and mechanism of action

According to the instructions for use of the drug Amlodipine, it contains the only active ingredient - amlodipine besilate. The list of auxiliary components, in addition to magnesium and calcium salts, starch and cellulose, contains milk sugar (lactose) - a carbohydrate that can cause an intolerance reaction in people predisposed to this.

In the drug Amlodipine, the mechanism of action of the active substance is based on complementary effects:

  • blockade of calcium channels;
  • dilation of blood vessels - coronary (heart) and periphery;
  • reducing capillary resistance;
  • reducing preload on the myocardium and its oxygen demand.

All this helps to reduce the severity of hypertension and ischemia of the heart muscle.

Contraindications and side effects

Valsartan, unlike Amlodipine, has completely different contraindications and does not contribute to swelling of the limbs.
However, his list of side effects on the patient’s body is also quite large. Valsartan should not be used in patients with severe impairment of the liver or kidneys.

It is not recommended for pregnant, nursing mothers or those with allergic reactions to any component of its component.

Foridon also belongs to the subgroup of calcium ion antagonists. The medicine does not cause swelling; some patients sometimes experience negative reactions to the drug: redness of the facial skin, migraine, tachycardia.

It is contraindicated if the patient has heart failure, acute heart attack, heart rhythm disturbance, or low blood pressure. Pregnant and nursing mothers are not allowed to take Foridon

It is recommended that drivers and people with other professions requiring increased attention and good reaction take pills with extreme caution.

Zanidip-Recordati is prescribed to patients with stage 1-2 hypertension. It is undesirable for patients with an allergy to the drug, heart failure, angina pectoris, previous heart attack, kidney or liver pathologies to take the tablets. Pregnant, lactating, and persons under 18 years of age should not take the drug.

Adverse reactions may occur after long-term use of Zanidip-Recordati or exceeding the dose of the dosage form:

  • the patient experiences an increase in liver enzymatic activity, in particular: nausea, discomfort in the abdominal region, pain, vomiting;
  • disturbances occur in the nervous system. The person becomes lethargic, sleep is disturbed, dizziness, weakness, and severe fatigue appear;
  • allergic reactions occur (rash, redness on the skin, itching);
  • There are also failures in the cardiovascular system. The patient sometimes loses consciousness, feels a rush of blood to the upper body, to the face, there is tachycardia, pain in the solar plexus.

Lisinopril is effective for high blood pressure, heart failure in patients and for maintaining the normal condition of patients who have suffered a stroke or heart attack.

Contraindicated in severe forms of heart failure, exacerbation of liver and kidney diseases, and allergies to the components of the drug. You should not take Lisinopril if there is a problem with blood circulation in the brain. The drug is not recommended for adolescents under 18 due to insufficient study of the effect on the young body. The product is prohibited during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Lisinopril, like any pharmaceutical drug, causes adverse reactions. Sometimes patients complain of a persistent decrease in blood pressure, drowsiness, weakness, nausea, dizziness, bowel movements, tremors in the limbs. Using the product in large doses can lead to an unpleasant taste in the mouth, loss of appetite, anemia, dry cough, allergic reactions, and skin rashes.

During pregnancy

There is also separate information on the use of Amlodipine during pregnancy in the official instructions for use. It is explained here that in studies on a control group of animals, the drug showed neither teratogenicity (structural changes leading to deformities in intrauterine development) nor embryotoxicity (toxic effects on the fetus). However, there is no clinical experience with its use in pregnant or lactating women. Therefore, the instructions for use warn against use not only by these groups of patients, but also by all women of reproductive age with a high risk of unplanned pregnancy.

About Amlodipine

Amplodipine belongs to the group of antihypertensive drugs that have antianginal properties. This drug stops calcium metabolic processes in the intercellular space with the muscle tissue of the heart and arterial walls. The result of this phenomenon is a lack of calcium component and a decrease in tension in the myocardium, coronary and peripheral vessels.

This drug affects the patient’s body as follows:

  • Restores the outflow of blood fluid into the heart;
  • Has hypotensive properties;
  • Reduces the number of heart contractions;
  • Prevents the development of left-sided ventricular hypertrophy.

Compatibility of the drug with alcohol

The instructions for use do not address the issue of Amlodipine and alcohol. The compatibility of these substances is impossible due to their synergistic effect on the body. Alcohol has a psychotropic effect, slows or increases heart rate, and causes a slight decrease in blood pressure. But this is immediately after taking it.

In the process of assimilation of alcohol, ethanol has a toxic effect on the heart muscle, promotes lipid deposition in myocardial cells, deterioration of its contractile function, and vasospasm. All this leads to arrhythmic disorders, increased blood pressure and other consequences that neutralize treatment with Amlodipine tablets. Alcohol is in no way compatible with them.

Side effects of Amlodipine

Adverse reactions observed in clinical studies:

  • common ─ palpitations, peripheral edema, facial flushing, headache;
  • rare ─ shortness of breath, loose gums, skin rashes, blurred vision, psycho-emotional state disorders;
  • very rare ─ deterioration of enzymatic activity, constipation;
  • isolated cases ─ heart pain, heart attack, arrhythmia.

Contraindications to taking Amlodipine:

  • pregnancy and lactation period;
  • after an acute attack of heart attack;
  • chronic heart failure;
  • hypotension;
  • liver and kidney diseases.

What to replace if your legs swell?

During amlodipine therapy, it often turns out that the use of the drug causes swelling in the patient's lower extremities. Then you have to look for something to replace Amlodipine if your legs swell. Below are antihypertensive drugs of other pharmacological groups that can replace the drug, as well as analogues of Amlodipine that do not cause swelling of the lower extremities.

Aprovel

The medicine of the French company Sanofi Avenitis Group - Aprovel - belongs to the pharmaceutical group of angiotensin II enzyme antagonists with the active ingredient irbesartan. It is indicated for the treatment of hypertension and nephropathy in hypertension and diabetes mellitus. Contains lactose.

Lorista

Russian and Slovenian (KRKA companies) Lorista pills belong to combined antihypertensive drugs with 2 active ingredients - the angiotensin II inhibitor losartan and the diuretic hydrochlorothiazide. The auxiliary components contain lactose. Appearance: oval tablets in a gelatin shell, yellowish or greenish-yellow in color. You can replace Amlodipine with these pills, using green or yellow tablets according to the instructions for use if your legs swell from amlodipine. If we compare which is better for lowering blood pressure - Amlodipine or Lorista, then everything is individual, both drugs have both positive and negative reviews.

Lozap

Lozap, a Slovak and Czech product, which is very popular among hypertensive patients, contains losartan as an active ingredient and belongs to the pharmaceutical group of angiotensin II antagonists. The oblong-convex white tablets do not contain lactose, are available in a dosage of 100 mg, and are divided by a groove in the middle for ease of breaking. When comparing which is better - Lozap or Amlodipine, many patients would probably say - Lozap, but Amlodipine also has its adherents, so it is better to compare based on practical experience.

Lozap plus

Lozap Plus tablets from the same company are a combination drug where the active ingredient losartan (50 mg) is combined with the diuretic hydrochlorothiazide (12.5 mg).

These are yellowish, elongated tablets with a dividing groove on both sides; lactose is not present in their composition; the likelihood of developing edema during use is minimal.

Telzap

The Russian drug directory lists the Turkish-made drug Telzap Plus. This is a combined antihypertensive drug with the angiotensin II antagonist telmisartan and the diuretic hydrochlorothiazide as a base. The instructions for use provide very little information about this medicine.

Felodipin

It is difficult to say which is better - Felodipine or Amlodipine. Both medications are calcium channel blockers, both are indicated for the treatment of hypertension and various types of angina. However, the instructions for use of Felodipine do not indicate such a side effect as swelling, which means that it can be used as an analogue of Amlodipine that does not cause swelling of the legs. Although Felodipine is not its direct (structural) substitute.

Lisinopril

If the question is: Amlodipine or Lisinopril, which is better, you should carefully study the patient’s medical history for a predisposition to allergic reactions to ACE inhibitors. The angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor lisinopril is the basis of this medication and can cause a cough reflex, angioedema and other allergic reactions. At the same time, swelling of the extremities is not included in the list of side effects in the instructions for use of Lisinopril. This means that if the ACEI is well tolerated, lisinopril can be used to replace Amlodipine.

Prestarium

The basis of the French drug Prestarium is the ACE inhibitor perindopril. For this active ingredient, almost all the instructions and warnings set out in the instructions for use for any ACEI are relevant. The list of indications includes hypertension, chronic heart failure, various types of coronary artery disease. What is better - Amlodipine or Prestarium? Neither in terms of the active substance, nor even in the pharmacological group, it is not an analogue of Amlodipine, but if necessary (if the legs swell), Prestarium can replace it in antihypertensive therapy.

Enalapril

Another representative of ACE inhibitors is Enalapril with the active ingredient of the same name.

This active ingredient is present in more than 30 trade names of medications of this pharmacological group, therefore it is very popular among hypertensive patients. But if you compare which is better - Amlodipine or Enalapril, you will have to consider all the possible consequences for the patient from using both. In some, amlodipine causes swelling of the legs, in others, Enalapril leads to angioedema or a painful cough. So the drug of choice is a purely individual matter.

Lerkamen

Pharmacological enterprises in Germany and the Russian Federation produce round yellow tablets Lerkamen. The basis of this drug is lercanidipine, a selective BMCC with a predominant effect on blood vessels. The medication, according to the instructions for use, is indicated for the treatment of essential hypertension. Contains lactose and is accompanied by a significant list of side effects, including peripheral edema. Therefore, it is not easy for a doctor to answer the question of which is better - Amlodipine or Lerkamen. It is easier to suggest that the patient be treated first with one and then with another medication in order to have good grounds for comparison.

Bisoprolol

Bisoprolol tablets are produced by both Russian and European manufacturers. The drug belongs to the pharmaceutical group of beta-blockers, it is based on bisoprolol hemifumarate, the drug is indicated for the treatment of hypertension and coronary artery disease. To compare Amlodipine or Bisoprolol, which is better, you will have to try the effects of both drugs on yourself, since even the most praised medication may turn out to be unsuitable for a particular organism. Judging by the instructions for use, the lists of side effects for both of them are impressive in their volume.

To each their own opinion of patients about analogues

Patients with hypertension respond positively to the medicinal properties of Amlodipine. They claim that it reduces blood pressure well and keeps it at an acceptable level. But the problem of swelling of the legs is relevant for him: in 40% of patients, when taking it, the legs and feet swell. Moreover, ordinary diuretics in this case are powerless. If this simply interferes with your life, then nothing can be done - you will have to give up the cheap medicine and take a more expensive one, which will lower your blood pressure and not worsen your overall well-being.

Most often, especially in the last couple of years, hypertensive patients switch to Lerkamen. According to many, Concor works no less effectively. Some people rate Normodipin positively. But reviews confirm once again: there is no universal cure for blood pressure! The drug is selected strictly individually.

It is advisable to look for analogues of Amlodipine with a different composition if a negative reaction of the body to the active substance itself is detected. But buying the same product under a different name, produced by a foreign manufacturer, hoping that it will help avoid side effects, hardly makes sense. It is much better to discuss the choice of blood pressure medication with your doctor. After all, the same medicine for hypertension can be harmless and effective for someone, but deadly for another. And this fully applies to Amlodipine.

How does it work with other medications?

It has been proven that the hypotensive effect of the drug can be weakened by drugs from the NSAID pharmaceutical group. In particular, indamethacin has been noticed in this - this is due to Na retention and renal blockade of prostaglandin synthesis. Alpha-agonists, estrogens and sympathomimetics will also weaken the hypotensive status.

Increases hypotensive/antianginal effects:

  • Loop and diazide diuretics;
  • Beta blockers;
  • ACE inhibitors;
  • Nitrates.

Amlodipine does not affect the pharmacological activity of warfarin and digoxin. Cimetidine does not affect the pharmacokinetics of amlodipine.

If you take Amlodipine together with lithium medications, then it is likely that their neurotoxicity will increase. And this manifests itself, meanwhile, in vomiting/nausea, indigestion, ataxia, tinnitus and tremor.

Ca medications reduce the effect of CCBs, which is quite expected. As for grapefruit juice, which is not recommended to take medications, it is indeed capable of somewhat reducing the concentration of the main substance in the blood, but the decrease is so small that it does not actually change the effect of the medicine. Although, try to wash down the medicine with water, so as not to accidentally mix it up and take a medicine with grapefruit juice that you absolutely cannot take with this drink (and there are a lot of them).

Overview and principle of action of Amlodipine and Normodipine

Amlodipine is included in most hypertension treatment regimens today. The action of this calcium antagonist causes antianginal and hypotensive effects. The main active ingredient is amlodipine besylate (5 or 10 mg in one tablet). The list of auxiliary components includes: lactose monohydrate, povidone, calcium stearate, crospovidone.

The absorption process of the main substance occurs rather slowly and occurs in the gastrointestinal tract. The average bioavailability is 64%. The level of maximum concentration in plasma is recorded after 7-9 hours. The use of tablets does not depend on food intake. After a single dose, the half-life is 40-50 hours. The substance is excreted from the body by the intestines, kidneys, and bile. The average cost is 25-27 rubles (10 mg/30 pcs.).

Mechanism of action of Amlodipine

Normodipine is considered an analogue of the domestic drug Amlodipine. It is also available in the form of tablets based on amlodipine besylate (10 and 5 mg). The following additional ingredients were used: starch, cellulose, magnesium stearate and calcium hydrogen phosphate. Absorption and bioavailability are similar to Amlodipine, since both drugs have the same active substance. The average cost of drugs in Russian pharmacies is 670 rubles (10 mg) and 400 rubles (5 mg).

Both drugs are dihydropyridine antagonists of Ca (calcium) ions. Penetrating into the body, the active component of the tablets blocks calcium channels and prevents the transmembrane transition of ions into the cell.

The medicine helps relax the smooth muscles of arterioles. It also significantly reduces the overall precardiac load and angina attacks. The antianginal effect consists of dilating the vascular intima in both ischemic and unaffected areas of the myocardium.

Features of the pharmacokinetics of Normodipine

The dosage of drugs affects the antihypertensive properties. With a single dose, blood pressure returns to normal within a couple of hours. The effect lasts for 24 hours.

Amlodipine helps accelerate glomerular filtration and slow platelet aggregation. It has no effect on heart rate and is characterized by a mild natriuretic effect.

pharmachologic effect

Amlodipine is a slow calcium channel blocker. The drug belongs to the group of antihypertensive drugs with an antianginal effect on the body.

Pharmacodynamics

The antianginal effect is due to the expansion of the coronary arteries and arterioles. With angina pectoris, the severity of myocardial ischemia decreases, peripheral arterioles dilate, the load on the heart muscle decreases, and as a result, its need for additional oxygen. The product prevents spasms in the coronary arteries in tobacco lovers. A single daily dosage of the drug normalizes physical activity and prolongs the period between angina attacks.

Amlodipine stably reduces blood pressure and has a dose-dependent constant effect due to its vasodilating effect on vascular smooth muscle. The drug reduces the degree of hypertrophy of the left ventricular myocardium, reduces the likelihood of further development of atherosclerotic plaques and has a cardioprotective effect in ischemic heart disease. The medicine does not have a negative effect on metabolic processes in the body and the concentration of lipids in the blood plasma.

Pharmacokinetics

The active substance Amlodipine is slowly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract and does not lose its activity when taken simultaneously with food. Average bioavailability is 64%, maximum concentration in the blood is achieved after 6-9 hours. Constant concentration in plasma - after 8 days of course administration. Binding to blood proteins is 95%. The medicine penetrates the blood-brain barrier.

The half-life of the substance is up to 35 hours. More than 60% of the drug dose is excreted through the kidneys, of which up to 10% is excreted unchanged. Up to 25% - in the form of metabolites, bile and feces. In case of drug overdose, hemodialysis is not used.

The half-life of the drug in patients with persistent high blood pressure is 48 hours, in elderly people this figure is increased to 65 hours, and in case of liver failure - up to 60 hours. Similar indicators are found in patients with heart and kidney failure.

Same composition, but different names

Almost all known drugs are on the pharmacological market under several names, including Amlodipine. Synonyms are the names of the drugs “Normodipin”, “Emlodin”, “Amlong”, “Stamlo”, “Kalchek”, “Tenox”, “Norvasc”, “Cardilopin”, “Cordi kor”, “Amlotop”, “Amlovas”, "Amlodifarm", "Acridipine", "Amlodigamma". Each of these drugs has identical medical indications, method of administration, elimination time from the body and contraindications. However, the drugs “Norvasc”, “Stamlo” and “Tenox” are in a different price category and are much more expensive than other analogues, and the drug “Acridipine” is characterized by an increased time required for the onset of action; these factors are often decisive when planning a purchase.

Recipe in Latin

Since we are talking about a medication sold by prescription in pharmacies, it would be useful to familiarize yourself with what the prescription for Amlodipine looks like in Latin:

Rp: Tab. Amlodipini 0.005 (0.010)

D.t. d: No. 30 (or No. 10) in tab.

S: 1 tablet 1 time per day.

Doctors have to write so much that only a pharmacy worker can decipher their handwriting. But now patients will be able to figure out what is written in the prescription: on the top line is the international name of Amlodipine in Latin in the genitive case, the second line is the number of tablets in the package, the third is the method of administration.

Prevention

What to do to prevent leg swelling and other diseases of the lower extremities? — To do this, doctors recommend following the following preventive rules:

  • Balance your diet, eat more vegetables and fruits, limit your consumption of pickles, smoked foods and sweets;
  • Lead an active lifestyle, engage in any type of sports activity;
  • Stop drinking alcoholic beverages and smoking tobacco;
  • Take walks in the fresh air more often;
  • Wear comfortable and high-quality clothes and shoes;
  • If you have the slightest health problem, visit a medical facility in a timely manner.

By adhering to the described rules, you can significantly improve your condition and reduce the likelihood of developing swelling.

People prone to high blood pressure simply need to always have some kind of drug in their first aid kit that can quickly bring them to their senses. An excellent choice is Amlodipine and its analogues. This is one of the most effective medications that has a hypotensive effect. The effect of using Amlodipine tablets occurs quite quickly, but unfortunately, this drug is not suitable for everyone and not in all cases.

The principle of action of Amlodipine

The main active ingredient in the tablets is amlodipine. In addition to it, the drug contains several excipients:

  • calcium stearate;
  • lactose monohydrate;
  • potato starch;
  • povidone.

Once in the body, Amlodipine affects the muscles of the blood vessels - relaxes them. This helps to reduce their peripheral resistance, and accordingly, reduce pressure. Amlodipine, together with its analogues, have also proven themselves to be good antispasmodics, vasodilators and antianginal agents.

One of the main advantages of the medication is its prolonged action. That is, the first positive changes in the patient’s health status are felt within a few minutes after taking the pill. But at the same time, the decrease in pressure occurs gradually and is not a shock to the nervous system. Thanks to its mild action, Amlodipine can be used even by diabetics, patients with gout and bronchial asthma.

Indications for use of the drug Amlodipine and its analogues

The drug is indicated for use for the following diagnoses:

  • arterial hypertension;
  • angina pectoris;
  • myocardial ischemia;
  • cardiac ischemia.

Amlodipine also helps prevent strokes and heart attacks.

You will have to think about what to replace Amlodipine with in the following cases:

  1. The drug is contraindicated in people with allergies and hypersensitivity to the components of Amlodipine.
  2. It is not recommended to use the product during pregnancy and lactation.
  3. Amlodipine will have to be replaced with something if swelling or other side effects occur.
  4. It is worth refusing treatment with Amlodipine in case of unstable angina and cardiogenic shock.

Tenox

The active compound is Amlodipine besilate. Available in tablets of 5 and 10 mg. The price category is slightly higher than usual Russian generics. On average, a package costs about 250-300 rubles.

The producing company, KRKA, is located in Slovenia. Indications and contraindications are identical to those of Amlodipine and its analogues. But the prices are different.

Release form, composition and packaging

Tablets are white or white with a cream tint, flat-cylindrical, with a score and a bevel.

1 tab.
amlodipine besylate6.9 mg,
 which corresponds to the content of amlodipine5 mg

Excipients: ludipress (lactose monohydrate, povidone, crospovidone), calcium stearate.

10 pieces. — contour cell packaging (1) — cardboard packs. 10 pcs. — contour cell packaging (2) — cardboard packs. 10 pcs. — contour cell packaging (3) — cardboard packs. 10 pcs. — contour cell packaging (4) — cardboard packs. 10 pcs. — contour cell packaging (5) — cardboard packs. 100 pcs. — polymer jars (1) — cardboard packs.

Tablets are white or white with a cream tint, flat-cylindrical, with a score and a bevel.

1 tab.
amlodipine besylate13.8 mg,
 which corresponds to the content of amlodipine10 mg

Excipients: ludipress (lactose monohydrate, povidone, crospovidone), calcium stearate.

10 pieces. — contour cell packaging (1) — cardboard packs. 10 pcs. — contour cell packaging (2) — cardboard packs. 10 pcs. — contour cell packaging (3) — cardboard packs. 10 pcs. — contour cell packaging (4) — cardboard packs. 10 pcs. — contour cell packaging (5) — cardboard packs. 100 pcs. — polymer jars (1) — cardboard packs.

Similar agents that do not cause swelling of the lower extremities

Calcium ion antagonists cause muscle fibers in the walls of blood vessels to relax. The filtration of fluid into nearby tissues increases, and swelling occurs. Side effects increase when taking tablets with the highest dose of the active substance.

Amlodipine causes swelling of the legs, but when using the drug with the lowest concentration of the drug, this disorder is almost not noticeable.

Sometimes it is more useful to take combination drugs. By combining the two components, the therapeutic effect is enhanced, but low doses of each ingredient reduce the risk of side effects.

Composition (active ingredient) Amlodipine

The tablets contain amlodipine in the form of benzene sulfonate or besylate. This active substance first appeared on the pharmaceutical market in 1992. The American company has released a tablet form of amlodipine besylate under the trade name Norvasc. The name of the same drug in France is Amlor. The dosage varies: 10, 5 and 2.5 mg.

Russian-made Amlodipine tablets are a generic version of the original Norvasc. The dosage of the active substance is 10 and 5 mg. The cost of a package of tablets 10 mg (60 pcs.) is 140 rubles, 5 mg (60 pcs.) is 37 rubles.

Tablets are produced under the same trade name in India, Poland, Serbia, and Macedonia. The cost of a package of imported Amlodipine tablets (5 mg, 20 or 30 pieces) is from 75 to 120 rubles.

Amlodipine in generic drugs can be used in the form of a maleate. It is believed that the besilate and maleic salts of the drug are biologically equivalent and interchangeable. However, a number of studies have revealed the ability of maleate to degrade to form physiologically active impurities.

Interaction

The drug can be safely used simultaneously with the following groups of drugs:

  • thiazide diuretics;
  • α-blockers;
  • β-blockers (taking Lercanidipine, Bisoprolol, Concor and Amlodipine at the same time);
  • angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (use of Telmisartan and Amlodipine, Losartan and Amlodipine, Lisinopril and Amlodipine together);
  • long-acting nitrates;
  • NSAIDs;
  • antibiotics;
  • oral hypoglycemic agents.

Data from in vitro studies with human plasma did not show any effect of the drug on the binding of the tested drugs (Digoxin, Phenytoin, Warfarin, Indomethacin) to plasma proteins.

Synonyms with similar effect

When choosing an analogue, you should pay attention to the active ingredient and composition. After all, medications may have different names, but their composition may be identical - these are so-called synonymous drugs. Accordingly, swelling of the lower extremities will be observed when taking them. Do not buy synonymous medications.

Synonymous drugs include:

  • Norwax;
  • Amlodil;
  • Aladin;
  • Amlorus;
  • Amlotop;
  • Amlodigamma;
  • Karmagip;
  • Stamlo;
  • Omelar cardio;
  • Amlodifarm;
  • Norvavdin;
  • Corvadil;
  • Amlodigamma;
  • Amlonorm;
  • Tenox;
  • Cordicore;
  • Kalchek;
  • Amlocard-Sanovel.

So we have come to the answer to the question: if your legs swell from Amlodipine, what should you replace the drug with? Use Amlodipine analogues with the least side effects. And analogues are those dosage forms that contain different components and differ from each other in their names, but have almost the same therapeutic effect.

Side effects and contraindications to taking the drug

The drug "Amlodipine" is contraindicated for use in cases of severe arterial hypotension, collapse and intolerance to the substances included in its composition. It is rarely prescribed to patients under 18 years of age, to persons with diabetes mellitus, chronic heart failure, and decreased liver function. Under the strict supervision of a physician, treatment with Amlodipine is carried out for acute myocardial infarction, lipid metabolism disorders, in old age, during pregnancy, and breastfeeding. The medicine has a number of side effects, which, however, are quite rare if the recommended dosages are followed. These include:

  • shortness of breath, swelling, redness of the skin, chest pain, arrhythmia, blood disorders;
  • dizziness, sleep disorders, headache, mental disorders;
  • disorders of the digestive system;
  • dermatitis, inflammation of mucous membranes.

Other foreign analogues

What can replace amlodipine? The list of imported analogues is quite wide; the drug is produced by all well-known pharmaceutical concerns. There are no cheap options among them, if you need to select an inexpensive product.

Foreign generics are used when it is necessary to reduce the number of negative reactions of the body to drugs from domestic manufacturers.

  1. "Amlovas" - produced in India, costs from 200 rubles. Lowers blood pressure, dilates blood vessels, suppresses arterial spasms, and has an antianginal spectrum of action.
  2. "Amlodak" - manufactured in India, sold in pharmacies from 330 rubles. Helps relax the smooth muscles of the vascular wall, dilates the coronary arteries.
  3. “Norvask” - produced in Germany, costs from 230 rubles. Approved for joint use and combination with other hypertensive drugs.

The selection of the most suitable drugs for the treatment of hypertension should be carried out by a cardiologist. Independent replacement with other types, interruption of the recommended therapeutic regimen, can lead to serious complications in the performance of the heart muscle and blood vessels.

The specialist takes into account many factors before prescribing one of the similar medications, including adverse reactions. The patient cannot assess the possible level of risk when taking hypertensive medications.

Interaction of Amlodipine with other drugs

Some medications containing calcium may reduce the effectiveness of Amlodipine. Reviews and studies by pharmacologists indicate an increase in the toxicity of lithium preparations when combined with any analogues of an antihypertensive product. This may increase side effects. The drug is compatible with the main antihypertensive, hypoglycemic medications, nitrates, and antipsychotics. Cardiac glycosides can be used simultaneously with Amlodipine. When it interacts with inhalation anesthesia drugs, the antihypertensive effect is enhanced.

Analogs for replacement

If the patient experiences unpleasant side effects after taking the drug, the doctor will prescribe analogues of Amlodipine that do not cause swelling of the lower extremities and other unpleasant symptoms. In pharmacology, the following similar drugs exist:

  • Foridon;
  • Cordaflex;
  • Zanifed;
  • Lacipil;
  • Osmo Adalat.

Lerkamen is considered the highest quality and effective analogue of Amlodipine. This drug does an excellent job of restoring blood pressure, has a positive effect on the blood vessels, without impairing the functioning of the heart muscle. Lerkamen has a protective and restorative effect. It stabilizes the functioning of the kidneys, which have been adversely affected by high blood pressure.

The medication is indicated for use by people of retirement age, as it significantly improves blood supply to the brain.

Foreign substitutes for Amlodipine

For hypertension, you can take other medications from the BMCC group, as well as beta blockers and ACE inhibitors. Many of these drugs are used as substitutes for Amlodipine

The imported drug Lerkamen (Germany) contains lercanidipine. The active substance, like amlodipine, belongs to the BMCC group. Lerkamen is well tolerated and causes relatively few side effects.

Trade names of other imported substitutes for Amlodipine:

  • Diltiazem (Romania, Austria);
  • Kordipin retard (Slovenia);
  • Valsacor (Slovenia);
  • Cordaflex (Hungary).

It is not difficult to replace Amlodipine, but you should pay attention to the INN, which is indicated in small print under the trade name of the drug. It happens that a patient is looking for an alternative to a medicine, but buys an analogue with an identical composition, but under a different commercial name.

Amlodipine has a lot of synonymous drugs. Here are just a few of them: Norvask; Amlotop, Kalchek, Kordikor Stamlo. If Amlodipine is not suitable, then its active ingredient in other drugs will provoke identical side effects.

Drug interactions

Amlodipine can be safely used for the treatment of hypertension together with thiazide diuretics, alpha-blockers, beta-blockers or ACE inhibitors. In patients with stable angina, the drug can be combined with other antianginal agents, for example, long-acting nitrates, beta-blockers or short-acting nitrates.

Amlodipine can be used simultaneously with NSAIDs (especially indomethacin), antibacterial agents and oral hypoglycemic agents.

It is possible to enhance the antianginal and hypotensive effect of BMCC when used together with thiazide and loop diuretics, verapamil, ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers and nitrates, as well as enhance their hypotensive effect when used together with alpha-blockers, antipsychotics.

Although negative inotropic effects have generally not been observed in amlodipine studies, some CBMCs may enhance the negative inotropic effects of antiarrhythmic drugs that prolong the QT interval (eg, amiodarone and quinidine).

A single dose of 100 mg of sildenafil in patients with essential hypertension does not affect the pharmacokinetic parameters of amlodipine.

Repeated use of amlodipine at a dose of 10 mg and atorvastatin at a dose of 80 mg is not accompanied by significant changes in the pharmacokinetics of atorvastatin.

Ethanol (drinks containing alcohol): amlodipine with single and repeated use in a dose of 10 mg does not affect the pharmacokinetics of ethanol.

Antiviral agents (ritonavir) increase plasma concentrations of BMCC, incl. amlodipine.

Neuroleptics and isoflurane - enhance the hypotensive effect of dihydropyridine derivatives.

Calcium supplements may reduce the effect of BMCC.

When amlodipine is used together with lithium preparations, it is possible to increase the manifestation of neurotoxicity (nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, ataxia, tremor, tinnitus).

Amlodipine does not change the pharmacokinetics of cyclosporine.

Does not affect the serum concentration of digoxin and its renal clearance.

Does not have a significant effect on the effect of warfarin (prothrombin time).

Cimetidine does not affect the pharmacokinetics of amlodipine.

In in vitro studies, amlodipine does not affect the binding of digoxin, phenytoin, warfarin and indomethacin to blood proteins.

Grapefruit juice: simultaneous single administration of 240 mg of grapefruit juice and 10 mg of amlodipine orally is not accompanied by a significant change in the pharmacokinetics of amlodipine.

Description and composition

Amlodipine is a drug from the group of dihydropyridine derivatives. Its use allows for a pronounced hypotensive effect, which occurs due to the entry of calcium ions into the cells of the myocardium and blood vessels. Taking the medicine dilates peripheral blood vessels without disturbing the heart rate.

The instructions for the drug indicate that taking the medication reduces the load on the heart, reduces the need for the myocardium to receive large amounts of oxygen, and at the same time dilates the large coronary arteries. Thanks to this therapeutic effect of the drug, it can be used not only for high blood pressure, but also for the treatment of angina pectoris. Taking pills allows you to control the attack and increase the time of physical activity.

The active component of the drug is amlodipine besylate in an amount of 5 or 10 mg, as well as auxiliary components.

Cheaper substitutes

The cost of a drug does not always guarantee its quality. Amlodipine has cheaper substitutes that are not inferior in quality and mechanism of action.

Amlorus

Amlorus is a dihydropyridine derivative and is a 2nd generation calcium blocker. Properties of this medication:

  • dilates intracardiac arteries, which improves blood flow in the myocardium and increases the number of oxygen molecules in cardiomyocytes;

  • reduces the load on the myocardium;
  • reduces the number of angina attacks;
  • prevents hypertrophic changes in the ventricles of the heart;
  • quickly and gently lowers the blood pressure index.

Amlorus is effectively used in the treatment of heart failure complicated by hypertension, and is also prescribed to prevent vasoconstriction.

Vero-Nifedipine

Class 2 calcium channel blocker, with the main component nifedipine. Blocks the passage of calcium into the membranes of cardiomyocytes and vascular smooth muscle cells. The medication reduces the muscle tone of blood vessels and gives them elasticity. Dilates coronary vessels and peripheral arterioles, reducing their resistance, which contributes to a hypotensive effect on blood flow.

Vero-Nifedipine reduces the load on the myocardium, lengthens the diastole period, which helps improve blood flow in the coronary vessels. The drug does not affect the conduction of impulses in the myocardium and does not restore its rhythm.

Amlodil and Amlopril

Both drugs are calcium antagonists and have identical composition and mechanism of action:

  • block the flow of calcium into the smooth muscle fibers of the myocardium and blood vessels;
  • reduce pressure in the bloodstream and relax the heart muscles.

The principle of action of medications is based on reducing heart rate and preventing the development of a heart attack.

At the same time, improving coronary blood flow prevents the occurrence of oxygen deficiency in cardiomyocytes. The drugs are used in the treatment of hypertension, angina, and also in the post-infarction period.

Analogs

What can replace Amlodipine if your legs swell? Pharmaceutical companies offer a sufficient selection of medications that are similar to each other. They have the same therapeutic effect, but differ in chemical composition.

You cannot switch to other tablets on your own, without first consulting a doctor, because they include other active and auxiliary substances with their own contraindications.

A new treatment regimen is prescribed after an objective examination of the patient: blood pressure, body weight, and concomitant diseases are taken into account. A prerequisite for selection is keeping a diary, where the figures of morning and evening measurements are recorded - the data obtained allows you to adjust the dosage.

Replacing Amlodipine for swelling of the legs is not difficult. Many people prefer Lerkamen (available in doses of 10 mg, 20 mg). The drug has an anti-ischemic effect: in patients who used it for a year, inhibition of pathological changes in the vascular walls was noted. Recommended for older people, because... it improves cerebral circulation.

Lerkamen is considered a selective agent (acts on blood vessels without affecting the heart muscle). Side effects in the form of swelling of the legs were observed much less frequently than with other drugs in its group. The gradual increase in antihypertensive effect is important; the maximum result is obtained after 2-4 weeks.

It has nephroprotective ability, i.e. protects the kidneys from the effects of high blood pressure. After administration, no deviations in blood lipid composition were detected. Lerkamen is prescribed for the treatment of different stages of hypertension, used as monotherapy, and combined with other pharmacological products.

Amlodipine analogues:

  • Zanifed;
  • Foridon;
  • Cordafen;
  • Osmo-Adalat;
  • Lacipil;
  • Cordaflex.

To prevent swelling of the lower extremities, special medications are simultaneously recommended: Cyclo-3-fort, Indomethacin. They are aimed at eliminating venous-lymphatic disorders, relieving pain and fatigue.

Doctor

Pregnancy and breastfeeding

Amlodipine is not recommended for use during pregnancy. The drug can be used to treat hypertension in pregnancy only when there are no safer options. Amlodipine is prescribed strictly under the supervision of a gynecologist. Before prescribing, the benefit to the mother and harm to the fetus are assessed; if the first indicator predominates, then the drug is conditionally recommended for use. It is not recommended to prescribe the drug during breastfeeding, otherwise the child will be transferred to artificial formula.

Possible allergy with an overdose of Amlodipine

Side effects

Side effects that are associated with taking the drug are classified according to organs and systems, namely:

  • Dyspeptic disorders from the gastrointestinal tract, hepatitis and jaundice, which is associated with stagnation of bile;
  • Allergic reactions;
  • Nervous system disorders, namely headache, tremor, impaired sensitivity and muscle hypertonicity, diplopia, insomnia, depression, confusion;
  • Violation of the composition of peripheral blood;
  • Hypotension and vascular vasculitis.

Changes in the skin may appear in the form of spotty rashes. All side effects are often accompanied by general malaise and weakness. Side effects can be managed only by adjusting the dose, or the drug can be discontinued and replaced with another group of antihypertensive drugs.

Pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics

The dihydropyridine derivative blocks the effect on calcium channels by binding to dihydropyridine receptors, thereby reducing the transmembrane passage of calcium ions in cells. The ability to dilate blood vessels, caused by a decrease in peripheral resistance, is a major factor in reducing pressure. The drug provides less manifestation of ischemia, increases oxygen supply, reduces cardiac strain, arterial spasm, increases exercise tolerance, reduces the frequency of existing and the risk of developing new angina.

The antihypertensive effect causes a direct effect of vasodilation on blood vessels. When used by hypertensive patients, a clinically significant decrease in blood pressure is observed after 24 hours. The drug reduces ventricular hypertrophy, does not affect the conductivity and contractility of the heart, and does not cause an increase in heart rate. Under the influence of the active substance, a slight natriuretic effect occurs, an increase in glomerular filtration, and inhibition of platelet aggregation.

When using the drug, a slight diuretic effect occurs. Increases in microalbuminuria have not been reported in people with diabetic nephropathy. The drug does not affect the content and metabolism of lipids in the blood and can be used in the treatment of diabetes, gout, and asthma.

Important! In diseases of the blood vessels and heart, the action of Amlodipine tablets is aimed at preventing hardening of the arteries, therefore, preventing the need to restore blood flow surgically.

The drug is slowly absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract. The average proportion entering the blood is 64%, the peak content in the serum occurs within 6-9 hours after administration, the equilibrium content occurs after about a week of use.

The medicine is taken regardless of food. The drug is predominantly absorbed into tissues without changing in the blood. The average distribution volume is 21 l/kg body weight. The active substance is degraded in the liver. No pharmacological activity is observed in the metabolites.

The half-life after the 1st dose is up to 50 hours, after the 2nd dose – up to 45 hours. 10% of the substance is excreted from the body unchanged by the kidneys, about 60% is excreted in the form of metabolites, 20–25% is excreted along with bile. The biological half-life in middle-aged and elderly patients is approximately 65 hours, but this difference is not critical. The active substance of the drug is characterized by the ability to overcome the blood-brain barrier and is not released during hemodialysis.

Means to combat arterial hypertension

Some drugs have a narrower focus than Amlodipine. Analogs in this category help to cope exclusively with arterial hypertension. A constant increase in blood pressure is fraught with serious health problems and even poses a threat to life, so drugs in this group should not be written off. Tablets "Captopress Darnitsa", "Acripamide", "Capozide" and "Enalapril-Acri" are diuretics (the latter is also an ACE inhibitor). Their action is aimed at reducing blood pressure and the sensitivity of the walls of blood vessels.

Overdose symptoms

It is recommended to take the drug in strictly prescribed doses. There is evidence of overdoses causing shock with simultaneous hypotension and vasodilation. Such an exaggeration of the dose leads to lethal consequences.

In case of overdose, there is no specific antidote. Only pathogenetic therapy can be used. When treating a severe form of overdose, it is important to monitor blood pressure, blood volume, and diuresis. The patient is prescribed not only gastric lavage, but also vasoconstrictor drugs, if there are no contraindications to their use.

To restore vascular tone, calcium gluconate is additionally prescribed, which blocks the action of Amlodipine. If you use activated charcoal or another enterosorbent within two hours after taking the drug, you can reduce the effect of the antihypertensive drug.

Amlodipine for liver failure

Identical drugs

The negative effects of Amlodipine are the reason for its replacement. Recommended analogues are confused with identical ones in composition and a similar drug is purchased, only with a different name. List of synonyms:

  • Amlodil;
  • Amlotop;
  • Norwax;
  • Karmagip;
  • Tenox;
  • Amlodigamma;
  • Stamlo;
  • Corvadil;
  • Amlorus;
  • Amlong;
  • Cordy Core;

The presented medications give the same effect as Amlodipine, so they are not suitable for replacement. Many people have a question: what to do in this situation? To prevent edema, it is necessary to take other medications.

The drug Amlodipine indications for use, properties

Before taking Amlodipine, read the indications for use and detailed instructions. You should not self-medicate. The medicine is certainly effective and efficient, but it has side effects and contraindications.

If used inappropriately, it can cause harm to the body. Before you start taking medication to treat a particular condition, consult your doctor.

According to the annotation and indications for use of the drug Amlodipine, the medication is prescribed for the treatment of the following ailments:

  • dilated cardiomyopathy;
  • IHD;
  • angina pectoris;
  • arterial hypertension (you can take tablets as monotherapy, as well as in combination with ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers and diuretics;
  • myocardial ischemia.

As you already understand, the drug Amlodipine is indicated for use in patients with high blood pressure. But before you take it, read the instructions, study the composition and be sure to consult your doctor. You need to be especially careful during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

The medicine helps block calcium channels. Thanks to this, Ca does not penetrate into the cells, and this has a positive effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular system. After taking the drug, there is a relaxation of blood vessels, their expansion and, consequently, a decrease in pressure.

The drug Amlodipine has the following indications for use:

  • dilation of myocardial arteries;
  • minimizing the load on the heart;
  • prevention of constriction of heart vessels;
  • increasing endurance and load tolerance;
  • slowing the progression of angina pectoris;
  • mild decrease in blood pressure.

Amlodipine + Valsartan and Lisinopril + Lisinopril are separate combination medications that, in addition to the active component - amlodipine, also contain other active ingredients.

What are the differences between Amlodipine and Amlodipine Teva

And one and the other drug contains the same active component in the same proportions.
Therefore, at first glance, the drugs do not have any special differences. However, there are differences and they are significant. Amlodipine Teva is a product that is manufactured in Hungary using technologies from the Israeli company Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd. Amlodipine is a domestic drug.

The second difference is production technology. In the manufacture of Amlodipine Teva, fewer impurities are used. To make it clearer, before putting it into a tablet, the active ingredient is cleaned of foreign impurities, tested, and only then allowed for production.

As a result, the drug has a more powerful effect and, importantly, has a lower risk of side effects. Such checking and cleaning of the active component is a labor-intensive and costly process.

That is why many domestic manufacturers do not carry out such cleaning

Such checking and cleaning of the active component is a labor-intensive and costly process. That is why many domestic manufacturers do not carry out such cleaning.

Another difference besides quality is price. Naturally, a drug that was manufactured according to all technologies and rules will cost more. That is why Amlodipine Cardio, Biocom and simply Amlodipine are several times cheaper than Amlodipine Teva.

Reviews from doctors and patients

Amlodipine is one of those medications whose effectiveness has been tested by time, so reviews from cardiologists and patients about the drug are mostly positive. Not all analogues are as effective as the original drug; many have many side effects:

Analogues of the original product are not always identical in their properties to it. The doctor selects a replacement, and you should not change medications yourself, even if they are in the same pharmacological group.

The drug Amlodipine belongs to the group of third-generation slow calcium channel blockers. This drug is widely used for the treatment of high blood pressure, as well as stable angina pectoris (angina pectoris). Some medications that are supposed to lower blood pressure can cause swelling. In this article you will learn how to get rid of this unpleasant symptom.

Many patients taking Amlodipine for a long time complain of swelling of the legs. What can replace the medicine in this case?

Interaction with other medications and analogues

Calcium antagonists are safe to take in combination therapy with beta-blockers, alpha-blockers, and thiazide-based diuretics.

Combined use is permissible with ACE inhibitors, nitrate-based drugs (Nitroglycerin), as well as oral hypoglycemic medications. It is also allowed to take antibacterial agents and calcium antagonists in complex treatment.

When taking amlodipine-based tablets, it is not allowed to drink grapefruit juice or eat fruits. Such combined use may lead to enhanced hypotensive effects on the body.

When combined with statins at a maximum dosage of 80 mg, the concentration of statins increases by 70-80%. Therefore, if concomitant therapy is required, statins should be prescribed in a dosage of no more than 20 mg. It is allowed to take it together with Warfarin, as well as with cardiac glycosides (Digoxin).

Pharmaceutical companies offer a wide range of analogues based on the active component amlodipine. Analogues of this product are produced by both Russian and foreign manufacturers. The choice of the drug, as well as its analogue, can only be made by the attending physician. The main medications that are prescribed to replace Norvasc and Amlodipine are:

  1. Enalapril is a medication prescribed for hypertension, as well as for the treatment of attacks of angina and tachycardia.

  2. Normodipine is a calcium antagonist similar in composition. The purpose and contraindications are the same as the original medications.
  3. Duactin is available in capsule form. Prescribed for chronic tachycardia complicated by hypertension. The medication has a minimal number of side effects.
  4. Tenox is a medication prescribed for severe hypertension and unstable angina. The medicine is not prescribed for severe heart failure.

How to relieve edema syndrome

Medicines are used to treat edema - both in tablets and in the form of ointments and gels. Treatment of leg swelling can be carried out with the following drugs, which are available in tablets:

  • Furosemide;
  • Klopamide;
  • Amiloride;
  • Spironolactone;
  • Indapamide;
  • Cardiomagnyl;
  • Aspecard;
  • Detralex;
  • Bumetanide and others.

In some cases, topical medications presented in the form of gels, creams or ointments will be more effective:

  • Troxevasin;
  • Lyoton 1000;
  • Essaven gel;
  • Venitan;
  • Viatromb;
  • ointments containing heparin.

Sometimes swelling of the legs can be relieved without using medications. To do this, it is enough to drink the required amount of liquid, do a simple foot massage for 5-7 minutes in the evening and morning, take a contrast shower and therapeutic relaxing baths. Also, to speed up recovery, it is strongly recommended to avoid salty foods and foods that contain caffeine. Some restrictions also apply to clothing - trousers should not be too tight, shoes should not be too tight, and high heels will have to be abandoned during treatment. It is useful to alternate types of stress on the legs (walking at a moderate and fast pace, sitting, lying down).

Remember that your actions must be agreed upon with your doctor; only he can decide whether to give up Amlodipine and what can replace the drug.

The principle of action of the drugs

The main active ingredient in both medications is amlodipine. Also, additional ingredients in the tablets are the following substances: calcium stearate, lactose, povidone, starch and other components.

Entering the body orally, the main component acts on the cells of the muscle fibers of the arterial membranes, relaxing them and giving them greater elasticity. This effect leads to a decrease in the resistance of the peripheral parts of the blood flow system, which leads to a decrease in pressure.

Therapeutic properties of Norvasc

As a result of this effect on the body, the drugs show the following results:

  • increase renin activity;
  • reduce total arterial resistance in the bloodstream;
  • normalize the functionality of myocardial cells;
  • reduce the risk of developing tachycardia and angina attacks.

Also, medications have proven themselves to be good antispasmodics, antianginal agents, as well as vasodilating medications, which, by expanding the walls of the arterial membranes, improve blood flow in the main and peripheral arteries of the system.

In patients with myocardial insufficiency, medications act as follows:

  • reduce the blood filling pressure of the right and left ventricles of the heart organ;
  • increase cardiac output;
  • increase blood flow in the peripheral parts of the system.

These medications have a prolonged effect, which helps to gently reduce blood pressure without damaging the arterial membranes and nerve fibers.

Reasons for use

Stress, poor lifestyle, problems with nutrition and the general state of the environment lead to the fact that quite young people end up being treated in cardiology departments of clinics. An active lifestyle does not always save you from this, and sometimes even aggravates health problems if it is not given enough attention. Angina pectoris and previous myocardial infarction cause increased blood pressure, pain in the heart area, and heart rhythm disturbances in patients. The action of the drug “Amlodipine” is aimed at combating these symptoms, analogues of which will be discussed below. Depending on your place of residence and financial situation, you can choose any of them (of course, after consulting with your doctor).

Amlodipine lowers blood pressure

The medicine gently lowers blood pressure. Recommended as individual therapy for patients with stage 1 hypertension or as a combination with other drugs for chronic and persistent hypertension.

The drug takes a very long time to be eliminated from the body. Concentrates in the blood for a long time, thereby reducing side effects.

Foreign remedies with fewer side effects

Foreign analogues of Amlodipine are represented by several generics. These medications have fewer pronounced side effects, since the raw materials are more thoroughly purified.

Tenox

The main active ingredient in the medicine is amlodipine maleate. Tenox is an antihypertensive drug from the pharmacological group of calcium channel blockers. Prescribed for the treatment of arterial hypertension, stable and unstable angina, cardiac ischemia of various etiologies.

Tenox affects arterial smooth muscle cells, but has little effect on cardiomyocytes. Due to a significant decrease in muscle tone, the drug promotes:

  • reducing the resistance of vessel walls;
  • normalization of heart rate;
  • prevention of hypertrophy of the left ventricle of the heart.

Taking the medicine reduces the frequency of heart attacks due to arrhythmia and angina pectoris. Prevents the development of heart attack. A single dose of the drug controls the blood pressure index for 24 hours.

Corinfar

A drug that is an antagonist of calcium ions. Corinfar reduces the activity of contraction of the vascular membranes, gives them elasticity and reduces tone, which contributes to the expansion of the coronary arteries and peripheral arterioles. The drug does not affect venous channels.

The drug reduces the need for increased oxygen consumption by the myocardium, thereby reducing the load on the heart, dilating the arteries, and improving microcirculation in the cerebral and peripheral vessels.

The active component nifedipine prevents sclerotic changes in the great vessels and the growth of atherosclerotic plaques. The drug is absorbed in the digestive tract, the effect of the drug begins 15-30 minutes from the moment of administration.

Features of taking the drug

The peculiarities of using Amlodipine for blood pressure lie in selecting the correct dosages. The drug can affect the controllability of vehicles, as well as complex mechanisms. This is because taking the drug can cause dizziness and headaches, as well as nausea. Such phenomena occur especially often in cases of overdose. Also, stopping taking Amlodipine should be gradual, although the drug is not addictive.

The drug should be prescribed with caution in the following situations, such as:

  • Impaired liver function, namely liver failure;
  • Moderate hypotension, as well as weakness of the cardiac conduction system;
  • Cardiomyopathy of the hypertrophic type;
  • Renal failure, despite the fact that the dosage of the drug is not adjusted, the drug is not removed from the blood during hemodialysis.
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