AMLOD 2.5MG TAB

AMLOD 2.5mg Tablet refers to a specific pharmaceutical preparation containing Amlodipine at a dosage of 2.5 milligrams. Amlodipine is a widely used and effective medication belonging to the class of drugs known as calcium channel blockers (CCBs), specifically of the dihydropyridine type. It is a cornerstone in the long-term management of various cardiovascular conditions.

Detailed Description:

1. Mechanism of Action: Amlodipine primarily works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into the smooth muscle cells that line the walls of blood vessels (both arteries and arterioles) and, to a lesser extent, into the heart muscle cells. This action leads to several crucial physiological effects: * Vasodilation: By blocking calcium entry, amlodipine causes the smooth muscles in the blood vessel walls to relax. This relaxation leads to the widening (dilation) of these blood vessels, particularly the peripheral arteries. * Reduced Peripheral Vascular Resistance: The widening of blood vessels decreases the overall resistance to blood flow throughout the body. This, in turn, reduces the workload on the heart, as it doesn’t need to pump as forcefully to circulate blood. * Improved Myocardial Oxygen Supply (in Angina): In the context of angina (chest pain), amlodipine also dilates the coronary arteries, which supply blood to the heart muscle. This increases the delivery of oxygen-rich blood to the heart, helping to alleviate or prevent anginal attacks. It can also reduce the heart’s oxygen demand by decreasing the afterload (the resistance the heart must pump against).

2. Primary Therapeutic Uses (Indications): AMLOD 2.5mg is predominantly prescribed for the treatment of: * Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): It is a highly effective medication for lowering and maintaining blood pressure within a healthy range. Controlling high blood pressure is crucial for preventing severe cardiovascular events such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease. * Chronic Stable Angina: This refers to chest pain that typically occurs with physical exertion or emotional stress. Amlodipine helps by ensuring a better oxygen supply to the heart muscle. * Vasospastic Angina (Prinzmetal’s or Variant Angina): This is a rarer form of angina caused by spasms in the coronary arteries. Amlodipine is effective in preventing these arterial spasms. * Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): In patients with documented CAD, amlodipine can reduce the risk of hospitalization for angina and the need for revascularization procedures.

3. Dosage and Administration: The 2.5mg strength of Amlodipine (AMLOD 2.5mg) is commonly used as: * Initial Starting Dose: It’s often the recommended initial dose for many patients, particularly the elderly or those with liver impairment. These groups may metabolize the drug more slowly, making a lower starting dose safer to avoid excessive drug levels and potential side effects. * Maintenance Dose: For some individuals, this lower dose may be sufficient to achieve adequate blood pressure control, especially if they are sensitive to the medication or have mild hypertension. AMLOD 2.5mg is usually taken once daily, with or without food. Its prolonged half-life (approximately 30-50 hours) allows for convenient once-daily dosing, which often improves patient adherence to the treatment regimen.

4. Pharmacokinetics: Amlodipine is well-absorbed orally, reaching peak plasma concentrations within 6 to 12 hours. It undergoes extensive metabolism in the liver into inactive metabolites, with about 10% of the unchanged drug and 60% of metabolites excreted in the urine. Due to its slow elimination, it takes about 7 to 8 days of consistent daily dosing to reach steady-state concentrations in the body.

5. Important Considerations and Potential Side Effects:

• Long-Term Management: AMLOD 2.5mg is for long-term management and does not cure hypertension or angina. Consistent daily intake as prescribed is vital.
• Avoid Abrupt Discontinuation: Stopping the medication suddenly can lead to a rebound increase in blood pressure or a worsening of angina. Any dosage adjustment or discontinuation should always be done under strict medical supervision.
• Common Side Effects: While generally well-tolerated, common side effects can include:
  • Peripheral Edema: Swelling, particularly in the ankles and feet, is one of the most frequently reported side effects. This is usually dose-dependent and occurs due to blood vessel dilation. Elevating legs or compression stockings might help.
  • Headache
  • Dizziness, lightheadedness, or drowsiness
  • Flushing (redness and warmth of the face)
  • Palpitations (awareness of one’s heartbeat)
  • Nausea, abdominal pain
  • Fatigue
  • Gingival hyperplasia (overgrowth of gum tissue) with prolonged use; good oral hygiene is important.
• Serious Side Effects (Rare): Although rare, more severe side effects can include profound hypotension, worsening angina, heart attack (especially when initiating therapy or increasing dose in certain patients), and liver problems. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if these occur.
• Drug Interactions: Amlodipine can interact with other medications, including certain antifungals, antibiotics, and other antihypertensives. It’s crucial to inform your doctor about all other medications, supplements, and herbal products being taken.
• Specific Patient Populations: Caution is advised in patients with heart failure or significant liver impairment, and dosage adjustments might be necessary.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential to ensure the medication’s effectiveness and to allow for appropriate dose adjustments by the healthcare provider.

AMLOD 2.5mg is a widely available and important medication in Nepal, often manufactured by various local and international pharmaceutical companies for the domestic market.