Amlodipine + Hydrochlorothiazide

Find more information about this combination medication at the webpages for Hydrochlorothiazide and Amlodipine

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Brand Name

Amvio H 5 mg/12.5 mg Tablet , Amloz H Tablet ... show more

Approved Treatment Indication:

Hypertension, Variant Angina Pectoris ... show more

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This medicine contains a combination of 2 drugs Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide.
Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide are both used to treat the same disease or symptom but work in different ways in the body.
Most doctors will advise making sure that each individual medicine is safe and effective before using a combination form.

Summary

What conditions are Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide used for?
Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide are mainly used to treat high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. In addition, Amlodipine can be used to treat certain types of chest pain, known as angina, and coronary artery disease. Hydrochlorothiazide can also help manage fluid retention, or edema, associated with heart, kidney, or liver disease.
How do Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide work in the body?
Amlodipine works by blocking calcium channels in the smooth muscle of blood vessels, leading to relaxation and dilation of the vessels, which lowers blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide acts as a diuretic, promoting the excretion of excess salt and water through the kidneys, which reduces fluid volume and blood pressure.
What are the usual dosages and routes of administration of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide?
The usual adult daily dose for Amlodipine is typically 5 mg to 10 mg once daily. For Hydrochlorothiazide, the usual dose ranges from 12.5 mg to 50 mg daily. Both medications are taken orally.
What are the most commonly observed adverse effects of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide?
Common side effects of Amlodipine include swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, dizziness, and flushing. Hydrochlorothiazide may cause frequent urination, dizziness, and electrolyte imbalances. Both medications can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
What are important safety warnings and contraindications of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide?
Amlodipine should be used cautiously in patients with severe obstructive coronary artery disease as it can worsen angina or cause a heart attack. Hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended for patients with anuria and should be used with caution in those with renal impairment. Patients with a history of sulfa allergy should avoid Hydrochlorothiazide.

Government Approvals

US(FDA)

WHO Essential Medicine

Known Teratogen

Pharmaceutical Class

None

Controlled Drug Substance

Summary

What conditions are Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide used for?
Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide are mainly used to treat high blood pressure, also known as hypertension. In addition, Amlodipine can be used to treat certain types of chest pain, known as angina, and coronary artery disease. Hydrochlorothiazide can also help manage fluid retention, or edema, associated with heart, kidney, or liver disease.
How do Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide work in the body?
Amlodipine works by blocking calcium channels in the smooth muscle of blood vessels, leading to relaxation and dilation of the vessels, which lowers blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide acts as a diuretic, promoting the excretion of excess salt and water through the kidneys, which reduces fluid volume and blood pressure.
What are the usual dosages and routes of administration of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide?
The usual adult daily dose for Amlodipine is typically 5 mg to 10 mg once daily. For Hydrochlorothiazide, the usual dose ranges from 12.5 mg to 50 mg daily. Both medications are taken orally.
What are the most commonly observed adverse effects of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide?
Common side effects of Amlodipine include swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, dizziness, and flushing. Hydrochlorothiazide may cause frequent urination, dizziness, and electrolyte imbalances. Both medications can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly.
What are important safety warnings and contraindications of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide?
Amlodipine should be used cautiously in patients with severe obstructive coronary artery disease as it can worsen angina or cause a heart attack. Hydrochlorothiazide is not recommended for patients with anuria and should be used with caution in those with renal impairment. Patients with a history of sulfa allergy should avoid Hydrochlorothiazide.

Indications and Purpose

How does combination of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide work?

Amlodipine works by blocking calcium channels in the smooth muscle of blood vessels, leading to relaxation and dilation of the vessels, which lowers blood pressure. Hydrochlorothiazide acts as a diuretic, promoting the excretion of excess salt and water through the kidneys, which reduces fluid volume and blood pressure. Both medications are used to manage hypertension, but they do so through different mechanisms: Amlodipine targets vascular resistance, while Hydrochlorothiazide reduces fluid retention. Together, they provide a synergistic effect in controlling high blood pressure.

How effective is combination of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide?

The effectiveness of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide in managing high blood pressure is supported by clinical trials and studies. Amlodipine has been shown to effectively lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events such as stroke and heart attack by relaxing blood vessels. Hydrochlorothiazide has demonstrated efficacy in reducing blood pressure and managing edema by promoting diuresis. Both medications have been used extensively in clinical practice, with evidence supporting their role in reducing hypertension-related complications. Together, they offer a comprehensive approach to blood pressure management by addressing different physiological pathways.

Directions for Use

What is the usual dose of combination of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide?

The usual adult daily dose for Amlodipine is typically 5 mg to 10 mg once daily, depending on the patient's response and condition. For Hydrochlorothiazide, the usual dose ranges from 12.5 mg to 50 mg daily, either as a single dose or divided into two doses. Both medications are used to treat high blood pressure, but they work differently. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that helps relax blood vessels, while Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that helps remove excess fluid from the body. Together, they can effectively manage hypertension by addressing different aspects of blood pressure control.

How does one take combination of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide?

Amlodipine can be taken with or without food, and it is recommended to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. Hydrochlorothiazide should also be taken consistently, and patients may be advised to take it in the morning to avoid nighttime urination. Patients on Hydrochlorothiazide should follow any dietary instructions provided by their doctor, such as a low-salt diet or increased potassium intake, as the medication can affect electrolyte balance. Both medications require adherence to prescribed dosages and regular monitoring of blood pressure.

For how long is combination of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide taken?

Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide are typically used as long-term treatments for managing high blood pressure. Both medications are intended for continuous use to maintain blood pressure control and prevent complications such as heart disease and stroke. While Amlodipine helps by relaxing blood vessels, Hydrochlorothiazide aids in reducing fluid retention. Patients are advised to continue taking these medications even if they feel well, as they do not cure hypertension but help manage it effectively.

How long does it take for combination of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide to work?

Amlodipine typically begins to work within 6 to 12 hours after oral administration, with peak effects observed around this time. Hydrochlorothiazide, on the other hand, starts to work within 2 hours, with its peak diuretic effect occurring around 4 hours after ingestion. Both medications are used to manage high blood pressure, but they work through different mechanisms. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that relaxes blood vessels, while Hydrochlorothiazide is a diuretic that helps the body eliminate excess salt and water. Together, they provide a complementary approach to lowering blood pressure.

Warnings and Precautions

Are there harms and risks from taking combination of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide?

Common side effects of Amlodipine include swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, dizziness, and flushing. Hydrochlorothiazide may cause frequent urination, dizziness, and electrolyte imbalances. Both medications can cause dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly. Significant adverse effects for Amlodipine include more severe chest pain and rapid heartbeat, while Hydrochlorothiazide can lead to severe dehydration and electrolyte disturbances. Patients should be monitored for these side effects, and any severe or persistent symptoms should be reported to a healthcare provider.

Can I take combination of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide with other prescription drugs?

Amlodipine can interact with other blood pressure medications, potentially leading to excessive lowering of blood pressure. It may also increase the effects of simvastatin, requiring dose adjustments. Hydrochlorothiazide can interact with non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), reducing its effectiveness, and with lithium, increasing the risk of lithium toxicity. Both medications can interact with other antihypertensive drugs, necessitating careful monitoring and possible dose adjustments to avoid adverse effects.

Can I take combination of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide if I am pregnant?

Amlodipine has limited data on its use during pregnancy, and while animal studies have not shown adverse developmental effects, it should only be used if clearly needed. Hydrochlorothiazide crosses the placenta and may pose risks such as fetal or neonatal jaundice and thrombocytopenia. Both medications should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefits justify the risks to the fetus. Pregnant women should consult their healthcare provider to carefully weigh the benefits and risks of using these medications.

Can I take combination of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide while breastfeeding?

Amlodipine is present in human milk, but no adverse effects on breastfed infants have been observed, making it relatively safe during lactation. Hydrochlorothiazide is also excreted in breast milk, but due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, a decision should be made to either discontinue the drug or stop breastfeeding. Both medications require careful consideration of the benefits and risks, and healthcare providers should be consulted to make informed decisions regarding their use during lactation.

Who should avoid taking combination of Amlodipine and Hydrochlorothiazide?

Amlodipine should be used cautiously in patients with severe obstructive coronary artery disease, as it can worsen angina or cause a heart attack. Hydrochlorothiazide is contraindicated in patients with anuria and should be used with caution in those with renal impairment. Both medications can cause dizziness, especially when standing up quickly, and patients should be cautious when driving or operating machinery. Patients with a history of sulfa allergy should avoid Hydrochlorothiazide. Regular monitoring of blood pressure and kidney function is essential for both medications.