AMVASC 5mg Capsules (Hard Gelatin)

What is AMVASC 5mg

AMVASC 5mg is a prescription medicine containing Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker. It is primarily used to treat hypertension (high blood pressure) and angina (chest pain). By lowering blood pressure, AMVASC 5mg reduces the risk of strokes, heart attacks, and kidney problems. In cases of angina, it improves blood flow to the heart muscle, reducing chest pain and the frequency of attacks.

• Generic Name: Amlodipine
• Form: Hard gelatin capsules
• Primary Uses: Management of hypertension and coronary artery disease.
• Secondary Benefits: Can help prevent the need for hospitalizations due to chest pain and heart-related issues.

AMVASC 5mg is widely prescribed due to its once-daily dosing and its effectiveness in controlling blood pressure over 24 hours.

How to use AMVASC 5mg

Correct administration of AMVASC 5mg is crucial for effective management of hypertension and angina:

• Administration: Taken orally with a glass of water, with or without food.
• Dosing Schedule: Typically administered once daily, preferably at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels.
• Capsule Integrity: Swallow the capsule whole; do not crush, chew, or open it.
• Missed Dose: Take the missed dose as soon as remembered. If it is almost time for the next dose, skip the missed dose. Do not double doses.

Patients should continue taking AMVASC 5mg even if they feel well, as high blood pressure often has no symptoms. Stopping the medication abruptly can worsen the condition.

Mode of Action AMVASC 5mg

AMVASC 5mg (Amlodipine) works by:

• Blocking Calcium Channels: Inhibits the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle.
• Vasodilation: Relaxes and widens blood vessels, reducing vascular resistance and lowering blood pressure.
• Reduced Cardiac Workload: Decreases the effort the heart must exert to pump blood, which is beneficial in angina management.
• Coronary Artery Dilation: Improves oxygen delivery to the heart muscle, alleviating chest pain during exertion.

Overall, AMVASC 5mg contributes to better heart function and decreased risk of cardiovascular events by its smooth and long-acting vasodilatory properties.

AMVASC 5mg Interactions AMVASC 5mg

AMVASC 5mg may interact with other medications, leading to altered drug effects or increased side effects:

• Other Antihypertensives: Combining with other blood pressure-lowering drugs (e.g., ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers) may cause additive effects and excessive hypotension.
• Grapefruit Juice: May increase Amlodipine levels in the blood, enhancing side effects such as dizziness and swelling.
• Simvastatin: Amlodipine increases plasma concentrations of Simvastatin, requiring a dose adjustment.
• CYP3A4 Inhibitors: Drugs like ketoconazole and erythromycin can elevate Amlodipine blood levels.
• CYP3A4 Inducers: Drugs like rifampicin can decrease Amlodipine blood levels, reducing its effectiveness.

It’s essential to inform the healthcare provider about all medications, supplements, and herbal products being used before starting AMVASC 5mg.

Dosage of AMVASC 5mg

The dosage of AMVASC 5mg must be individualized based on patient response and condition severity:

• Initial Dose: Typically 5mg once daily.
• Maintenance Dose: Can be increased to a maximum of 10mg once daily depending on blood pressure control and patient tolerance.
• In Elderly or Hepatic Impairment: Start with a lower dose (e.g., 2.5mg daily) to minimize the risk of hypotension.

Dosage adjustments should always be done under medical supervision, typically after 1-2 weeks of therapy based on the patient’s clinical response and tolerance.

Possible side effects of AMVASC 5mg

Although AMVASC 5mg is generally well-tolerated, some patients may experience side effects:

• Common Side Effects: Peripheral edema (swelling of legs or ankles), dizziness, flushing, and fatigue.
• Less Common Side Effects: Palpitations, abdominal pain, nausea, and headache.
• Rare Serious Effects: Hypotension, severe allergic reactions, chest pain, or worsening heart failure symptoms.
• Allergic Reactions: Rash, itching, or swelling, particularly of the face, tongue, or throat, requiring immediate medical attention.

It is important to report any persistent or severe side effects to a healthcare provider promptly to ensure safe use of the medication.

AMVASC 5mg Contraindications AMVASC 5mg

AMVASC 5mg should not be used under certain medical conditions:

• Hypersensitivity: Contraindicated in individuals with a known allergy to Amlodipine or any component of the formulation.
• Severe Hypotension: Should not be used in patients with very low blood pressure.
• Cardiogenic Shock: Use is contraindicated in patients with shock due to severely reduced heart function.
• Severe Aortic Stenosis: Use with caution as it may worsen cardiac output in these patients.

A careful medical history is necessary to prevent adverse events in patients being considered for AMVASC 5mg therapy.

Storage of AMVASC 5mg

Proper storage of AMVASC 5mg is essential to preserve its efficacy and safety:

• Temperature: Store at room temperature between 20°C to 25°C (68°F to 77°F).
• Moisture Protection: Keep away from excessive moisture; store in a dry place.
• Light Protection: Keep the capsules in their original packaging to protect from light.
• Child Safety: Store out of reach of children.
• Disposal: Discard any unused medication properly if expired or no longer needed, following local regulations.

Following correct storage guidelines ensures the medication remains effective until the end of its shelf life.