Amlodipine + Lisinopril

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

Hypertension, Variant Angina Pectoris ... show more

Advisory

  • This medicine contains a combination of 2 drugs Amlodipine and Lisinopril.
  • Amlodipine and Lisinopril 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.

Drug Status

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Government Approvals

None

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WHO Essential Medicine

NO

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Known Teratogen

Definite

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Pharmaceutical Class

Angiotensin Converting Enzyme Inhibitor and Calcium Channel Blocker and Dihydropyridine Calcium Channel Blocker

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Controlled Drug Substance

NO

Summary

  • Amlodipine is used to treat high blood pressure, which is a condition where the force of the blood against the artery walls is too high, and angina, which is chest pain due to reduced blood flow to the heart. Lisinopril is also used for high blood pressure and is effective in treating heart failure, which is a condition where the heart doesn't pump blood as well as it should, and improving survival after a heart attack, which is when blood flow to a part of the heart is blocked.

  • Amlodipine works by blocking calcium channels, which are pathways that allow calcium to enter cells, in the smooth muscle of blood vessels, leading to relaxation and dilation, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart's workload. Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor, which means it blocks the angiotensin-converting enzyme, reducing the production of angiotensin II, a substance that causes blood vessels to constrict, thereby lowering blood pressure and easing the heart's workload.

  • Amlodipine is usually taken orally once daily, with a typical adult dose ranging from 5 mg to 10 mg, depending on the patient's response and condition. Lisinopril is also taken orally, starting at 10 mg once daily, with adjustments based on blood pressure response, usually ranging from 20 mg to 40 mg per day. Both medications are taken by mouth and can be adjusted based on individual patient needs and responses.

  • Common side effects of Amlodipine include swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, dizziness, and flushing, which is a warm, red feeling in the skin. Lisinopril may cause a persistent cough, dizziness, and headache. Both medications can lead to low blood pressure, which may result in lightheadedness or fainting. Serious adverse effects for both include angioedema, which is a severe allergic reaction causing swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, requiring immediate medical attention.

  • Amlodipine should be used cautiously in patients with severe aortic stenosis, which is a narrowing of the heart's aortic valve, due to the risk of worsening angina or heart attack. Lisinopril is contraindicated in patients with a history of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor treatment. Both medications should be used with caution in patients with impaired kidney function. Pregnant women should avoid Lisinopril due to the risk of fetal harm, and women of childbearing age should use effective contraception while taking it.

Indications and Purpose

How does combination of Amlodipine and Lisinopril work?

Amlodipine works by blocking calcium channels in the smooth muscle of blood vessels, leading to relaxation and dilation, which lowers blood pressure and reduces the heart's workload. Lisinopril inhibits the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE), reducing the production of angiotensin II, a substance that causes blood vessels to constrict. This action also lowers blood pressure and decreases the heart's workload. Both medications aim to improve blood flow and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, but they achieve this through different mechanisms.

How effective is combination of Amlodipine and Lisinopril?

Clinical trials have demonstrated the effectiveness of Amlodipine in reducing blood pressure and managing angina by improving blood flow through vasodilation. Lisinopril has been shown to effectively lower blood pressure, improve heart failure symptoms, and enhance survival rates post-heart attack by inhibiting the production of angiotensin II. Both medications have been proven to reduce the risk of cardiovascular events, such as heart attacks and strokes, by maintaining lower blood pressure levels. Their complementary mechanisms of action provide a comprehensive approach to cardiovascular health.

Directions for Use

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

The usual adult daily dose for Amlodipine is 5 mg to 10 mg once daily, depending on the patient's response and condition. For Lisinopril, the typical starting dose is 10 mg once daily, which can be adjusted based on blood pressure response, with a usual range of 20 mg to 40 mg per day. Both medications are taken orally and can be adjusted based on individual patient needs and responses. They are often used together to enhance blood pressure control, as they work through different mechanisms to achieve a common goal of reducing hypertension.

How does one take combination of Amlodipine and Lisinopril?

Amlodipine can be taken with or without food, and it is important to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. Lisinopril should also be taken at the same time daily, with or without food. Patients taking Lisinopril should avoid salt substitutes containing potassium and should follow any dietary restrictions advised by their healthcare provider, such as a low-salt diet. Both medications require regular monitoring, and patients should consult their doctor before starting any new medications or supplements.

For how long is combination of Amlodipine and Lisinopril taken?

Amlodipine and Lisinopril are typically used as long-term treatments for managing high blood pressure and related cardiovascular conditions. Both medications are intended for continuous use to maintain blood pressure control and prevent complications such as heart attacks and strokes. The duration of use is generally indefinite, as they manage chronic conditions that require ongoing treatment. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to ensure effectiveness and adjust dosages as needed.

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

Amlodipine typically starts working within 6 to 12 hours after oral administration, with peak effects seen around this time. Lisinopril, on the other hand, begins to lower blood pressure within 1 hour, with peak effects occurring around 6 hours after administration. 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 Lisinopril is an ACE inhibitor that reduces the production of angiotensin II, a substance that narrows blood vessels. Together, they provide a complementary approach to lowering blood pressure.

Warnings and Precautions

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

Common side effects of Amlodipine include swelling of the hands, feet, ankles, or lower legs, dizziness, and flushing. Lisinopril may cause cough, dizziness, and headache. Both medications can lead to low blood pressure, which may result in lightheadedness or fainting. Serious adverse effects for both include angioedema, a severe allergic reaction that can cause swelling of the face, lips, tongue, or throat, and requires immediate medical attention. Regular monitoring by a healthcare provider is essential to manage these potential side effects.

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

Amlodipine can interact with other blood pressure medications, potentially leading to excessive lowering of blood pressure. Lisinopril should not be taken with medications like sacubitril/valsartan due to the risk of angioedema. Both drugs can interact with NSAIDs, which may reduce their effectiveness in lowering blood pressure. Additionally, Lisinopril can interact with diuretics, increasing the risk of low blood pressure. Patients should inform their healthcare provider of all medications they are taking to avoid adverse interactions.

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

Amlodipine's safety during pregnancy is not well-established, and it should only be used if the potential benefits justify the risks to the fetus. Lisinopril is contraindicated during pregnancy, especially in the second and third trimesters, due to the risk of fetal harm, including renal impairment and developmental issues. Women of childbearing age should use effective contraception while taking Lisinopril and consult their healthcare provider immediately if they become pregnant.

Can I take combination of Amlodipine and Lisinopril while breastfeeding?

Amlodipine is present in human milk, but no adverse effects on breastfed infants have been observed. Lisinopril's presence in human milk is not well-documented, but due to the potential for serious adverse reactions in nursing infants, it is generally advised to avoid breastfeeding while on Lisinopril. Mothers should consult their healthcare provider to weigh the benefits and risks of continuing these medications while breastfeeding, and alternative treatments may be considered.

Who should avoid taking combination of Amlodipine and Lisinopril?

Amlodipine should be used cautiously in patients with severe aortic stenosis due to the risk of worsening angina or myocardial infarction. Lisinopril is contraindicated in patients with a history of angioedema related to previous ACE inhibitor treatment. Both medications should be used with caution in patients with impaired renal function. Pregnant women should avoid Lisinopril due to the risk of fetal harm. Regular monitoring and consultation with a healthcare provider are essential to manage these risks effectively.