Amlodipine + Atorvastatin
Uses of Amlodipine + Atorvastatin
The combination of Amlodipine and Atorvastatin belongs to the class of medications known as calcium channel blockers and statins, and it is indicated for the treatment of hypertension and dyslipidemia, aiming to reduce blood pressure and cholesterol levels.
How Amlodipine + Atorvastatin Works
Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, dilates blood vessels, reducing blood pressure. Atorvastatin, a statin, inhibits HMG-CoA reductase, lowering cholesterol synthesis and levels in the blood, collectively addressing hypertension and dyslipidemia.
Side Effects of Amlodipine + Atorvastatin
Headache, Dizziness, Edema, Flushing, and Muscle Pain.
Warnings
Kidney Use With Care
Amlodipine + Atorvastatin should be used with caution in patients with severe kidney disease. Amlodipine + Atorvastatin is mostly excreted via urine. Thus, dose adjustment of Amlodipine + Atorvastatin may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Alcohol Not Advisable
It is unsafe to consume alcohol with Amlodipine + Atorvastatin. Taking Amlodipine + Atorvastatin with alcohol may worsen the side effects of Amlodipine + Atorvastatin such as headache, dizziness, and visual disturbance. Furthermore, Amlodipine + Atorvastatin is metabolized in the liver, and alcohol consumption leads to a risk of liver damage.
Pregnancy Not Safe
Amlodipine + Atorvastatin may be unsafe to use during pregnancy. Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, however, there are limited human studies. The benefits of using Amlodipine + Atorvastatin among pregnant women outweigh the risks. Please consult your doctor.
Driving Not advisable
Do not drive unless you are feeling well. Amlodipine + Atorvastatin may cause side effects such as dizziness headache, tiredness, or nausea, all of which could affect the ability to concentrate and drive.
Liver Use With Care
The liver disease should use Amlodipine + Atorvastatin with caution. It is extensively metabolised in the liver. Extensive use of Amlodipine + Atorvastatin also increases the liver enzyme. Dose adjustment of Amlodipine + Atorvastatin may be needed. Please consult your doctor.
Lactation Limited Data
Amlodipine + Atorvastatin is reported to be excreted into breast milk. However, the effect of the exposure on the babies remains unknown. It is also stated that no side effects were reported with the exposure. Please consult your doctor for further details.
Written by Dr Sri Viknarajan, MD (Universiti Hasanuddin, Indonesia)
Reviewed by Dr Nur Syuhada binti Zulkifli, MD, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia (UKM).
