AMLOD 5MG TAB

Description

AMLOD 5mg Tablet is a common and widely used medication containing Amlodipine 5 milligrams. This strength is a standard therapeutic dose of Amlodipine, a well-established calcium channel blocker (CCB) of the dihydropyridine class. It plays a crucial role in the long-term management of various cardiovascular conditions.

Detailed Description:

1. What AMLOD 5mg Is and How It Works (Mechanism of Action): AMLOD 5mg Tablet contains Amlodipine, which primarily acts by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into the smooth muscle cells lining the walls of blood vessels (both arteries and arterioles) and, to a lesser extent, into the cardiac muscle cells. This process leads to: * Vasodilation: The relaxation and widening of blood vessels throughout the body, particularly the peripheral (systemic) arteries. This makes it easier for blood to flow through them. * Reduced Peripheral Vascular Resistance: By dilating the blood vessels, the overall resistance against which the heart has to pump is reduced. This lessens the workload on the heart, contributing to a decrease in blood pressure. * Improved Myocardial Oxygen Supply (for Angina): In patients experiencing angina (chest pain), Amlodipine also causes dilation of the coronary arteries (the blood vessels supplying the heart muscle). This increases the blood flow and oxygen supply to the heart, helping to relieve or prevent anginal attacks. It also indirectly reduces the heart’s oxygen demand by decreasing its workload.

2. Key Uses (Indications) of AMLOD 5mg: AMLOD 5mg is most commonly prescribed for: * Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): It is a highly effective medication for lowering and controlling elevated blood pressure. By maintaining blood pressure within a healthy range, it significantly reduces the risk of serious cardiovascular complications such as heart attacks, strokes, and kidney disease. * Chronic Stable Angina: This refers to chest pain that occurs predictably, often with physical exertion or stress. Amlodipine helps by ensuring a better oxygen supply to the heart muscle. * Vasospastic Angina (Prinzmetal’s or Variant Angina): This rarer form of angina is caused by spasms in the coronary arteries. Amlodipine is effective in preventing these spasms. * Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): In patients with documented CAD, it can reduce the risk of hospitalization for angina and the need for revascularization procedures.

3. Dosage and Administration:

• The 5mg strength is a common starting dose for many adult patients. It may also be used as a maintenance dose, depending on the individual’s response and the severity of their condition.
• For some patients, particularly the elderly or those with liver impairment, a lower starting dose (e.g., 2.5mg) might be initiated and then gradually increased to 5mg if needed and tolerated.
• AMLOD 5mg is typically taken once daily, with or without food. Its long duration of action (due to a prolonged half-life) allows for convenient once-daily dosing, which generally improves patient adherence to the treatment.
• It is crucial to take the tablet at approximately the same time each day to maintain a consistent level of the medication in the body.

4. Pharmacokinetics: Amlodipine is well-absorbed after oral administration, reaching peak plasma concentrations within 6 to 12 hours. It is extensively metabolized in the liver to inactive metabolites, with elimination primarily occurring through 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 Treatment: AMLOD 5mg is for long-term management of chronic conditions like hypertension and angina. It does not cure these conditions, but effectively controls them.
• Do Not Stop Abruptly: Patients should never discontinue AMLOD 5mg suddenly without consulting their doctor, as this can lead to a dangerous rebound increase in blood pressure or worsening of angina. Any dosage adjustment or discontinuation must be done gradually under medical supervision.
• Common Side Effects: While generally well-tolerated, common side effects can include:
  • Peripheral Edema (Swelling of ankles/feet): This is one of the most frequent side effects, often dose-dependent, caused by the dilation of small blood vessels. Elevating legs or compression stockings might help manage this.
  • 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 and regular dental check-ups are important.
• Serious Side Effects (Rare): Although rare, more serious side effects can occur, such as severe low blood pressure (hypotension), worsening angina or heart attack (especially at the beginning of treatment in susceptible individuals), and liver problems. Patients should seek immediate medical attention if they experience severe chest pain, fainting, or signs of an allergic reaction.
• Drug Interactions: Amlodipine can interact with other medications, including certain antifungals, antibiotics, and other antihypertensives. Patients must inform their doctor about all prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal supplements they are taking.
• Specific Patient Populations: Caution is advised in patients with heart failure or significant liver impairment, and dosage adjustments may be necessary. It is generally not recommended in severe aortic stenosis or cardiogenic shock.
• Monitoring: Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential to ensure the medication’s effectiveness and to allow the healthcare provider to make appropriate dose adjustments.

AMLOD 5mg Tablet is a widely available medication in Nepal, manufactured by various pharmaceutical companies, serving as a key treatment option for many individuals in the region.