AMVASC 10mg Capsules (Hard Gelatin)

What is AMVASC 10mg

AMVASC 10mg is a prescription medication that contains Amlodipine, a long-acting calcium channel blocker. It is widely used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and chronic stable angina (chest pain) or vasospastic angina (caused by coronary artery spasms). By lowering blood pressure, AMVASC 10mg helps reduce the risk of serious cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney problems. It also improves blood flow in heart vessels, easing chest pain and improving exercise tolerance.

• Generic Name: Amlodipine
• Form: Hard gelatin capsules
• Indications: Hypertension, chronic stable angina, and vasospastic angina.
• Benefits: Long 24-hour duration of action, allowing once-daily dosing for better compliance.

AMVASC 10mg is suitable for adult patients who require a higher dose of amlodipine to achieve optimal blood pressure or angina control.

How to use AMVASC 10mg

Proper administration of AMVASC 10mg ensures maximal efficacy and minimizes adverse effects:

• Route of Administration: Oral. Swallow the capsule whole with a glass of water.
• Timing: It can be taken with or without food, preferably at the same time each day.
• Missed Dose: If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. If it’s near the time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Never double up.
• Continuation: Do not stop taking AMVASC 10mg suddenly without consulting a healthcare provider, even if you feel well.

Adhering to a regular schedule is essential to maintain a consistent level of the drug in your bloodstream, ensuring better therapeutic outcomes.

Mode of Action AMVASC 10mg

AMVASC 10mg exerts its effect through the following mechanisms:

• Calcium Channel Blockade: Inhibits the influx of calcium ions across cardiac and vascular smooth muscle cell membranes, which is vital for contraction.
• Vasodilation: Relaxation of arterial smooth muscles leads to a decrease in systemic vascular resistance and blood pressure.
• Reduced Afterload: Decreases the workload on the heart by reducing the resistance the heart has to pump against.
• Increased Coronary Perfusion: Enhances blood flow to the heart muscles, particularly useful in preventing angina attacks.

Through these actions, AMVASC 10mg not only helps control blood pressure but also significantly reduces symptoms of angina and prevents serious heart complications.

AMVASC 10mg Interactions AMVASC 10mg

AMVASC 10mg can interact with other medications, potentially enhancing or diminishing its effects:

• Simvastatin: Amlodipine can increase Simvastatin plasma levels; maximum Simvastatin dose should be limited to 20 mg daily.
• CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Drugs like ketoconazole, itraconazole, or clarithromycin may elevate Amlodipine levels, increasing the risk of side effects.
• CYP3A4 Inducers: Medications like rifampicin or carbamazepine may reduce Amlodipine’s effectiveness.
• Beta-Blockers: When combined, may result in additive blood pressure lowering effects or increased bradycardia risk.
• Grapefruit Juice: May slightly increase Amlodipine plasma concentrations; patients should consume it cautiously.

Always inform your healthcare provider about all current medications, including herbal supplements and OTC products, before starting AMVASC 10mg.

Dosage of AMVASC 10mg

The dosage of AMVASC 10mg must be individualized based on patient response:

• Adults: 10mg once daily, usually as a maintenance or higher-end dose after titration from lower doses (2.5mg or 5mg).
• Elderly Patients: May require cautious dosage escalation; monitor for signs of excessive hypotension.
• Renal Impairment: Dose adjustment is usually not necessary.
• Hepatic Impairment: Dose reduction may be necessary; start low and monitor closely.

The maximum recommended daily dose is 10mg. Dosage should be prescribed and adjusted only by a qualified healthcare provider.

Possible side effects of AMVASC 10mg

Although generally well-tolerated, AMVASC 10mg can cause side effects:

• Common Side Effects: Swelling (especially of the ankles or feet), dizziness, flushing, and fatigue.
• Less Common Effects: Palpitations, nausea, abdominal pain, somnolence, and muscle cramps.
• Serious Reactions: Very low blood pressure, increased angina, myocardial infarction (especially in patients with severe coronary artery disease), allergic reactions (rash, itching, swelling of face or tongue).

Seek immediate medical attention if any severe side effects occur. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional can help manage and minimize these risks.

AMVASC 10mg Contraindications AMVASC 10mg

AMVASC 10mg should not be used in the following cases:

• Hypersensitivity: Allergy to Amlodipine, dihydropyridine derivatives, or any component of the capsule.
• Severe Hypotension: Particularly in cases of shock (including cardiogenic shock).
• Severe Aortic Stenosis: May worsen heart function due to the fixed obstruction of blood flow.
• Heart Failure: Use cautiously in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction.

A thorough medical evaluation should precede initiation of therapy with AMVASC 10mg to ensure safety and appropriateness of use.

Storage of AMVASC 10mg

To preserve the quality and effectiveness of AMVASC 10mg:

• Temperature: Store at 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F); brief excursions permitted between 15°C and 30°C (59°F to 86°F).
• Humidity: Keep in a dry place away from moisture and humidity.
• Packaging: Keep capsules in their original blister packaging until use to protect from light and moisture.
• Child Safety: Store out of reach of children to prevent accidental ingestion.
• Expiry: Do not use after the expiration date printed on the pack.

Proper storage practices help maintain the stability, safety, and efficacy of AMVASC 10mg throughout its shelf life.