Amlokind 5 Tablet for Hypertension & Angina – Uses, Dosage & Side Effects

Amlokind 5 Tablet

Prescription Required

NPPA Regulated

Marketer

Mankind Pharma Ltd

SALT COMPOSITION

Amlodipine (5mg)

Storage

Store below 30°C

Click here to view all substitutes

Buynow

Introduction

Amlokind 5 Tablet contains Amlodipine (5mg), a potent calcium channel blocker that has become a cornerstone in the management of hypertension (high blood pressure) and certain types of chest pain (angina pectoris). This medication works by relaxing blood vessels, improving blood flow, and reducing the workload on the heart, making it an effective option for cardiovascular conditions that affect millions worldwide.

Amlodipine, the active ingredient in Amlokind 5 Tablet, belongs to the dihydropyridine class of calcium channel blockers. By blocking calcium entry into the cells of heart and blood vessel walls, it prevents the contraction of these tissues, resulting in widened blood vessels (vasodilation) and reduced blood pressure. This mechanism also improves blood flow to the heart muscle, alleviating chest pain associated with angina.

Healthcare providers frequently prescribe Amlokind 5 Tablet due to its proven efficacy, once-daily dosing convenience, and favorable safety profile compared to many other antihypertensive medications. The 5mg strength represents a standard dosage that effectively balances therapeutic benefits with minimal side effects for most adult patients. For some patients, this dosage serves as a starting point, with adjustments made based on individual response and tolerance.

One of the notable advantages of Amlokind 5 Tablet is its long duration of action, providing 24-hour blood pressure control with a single daily dose. This sustained effect helps maintain consistent blood pressure levels throughout the day and night, reducing the risk of cardiovascular events that often occur in the early morning hours when blood pressure typically surges.

While generally well-tolerated, Amlokind 5 Tablet may cause certain side effects, particularly during the initial treatment period. Understanding these potential effects, along with proper usage guidelines and precautions, is essential for optimal treatment outcomes and patient safety.

This comprehensive guide provides detailed information about Amlokind 5 Tablet, including its composition, uses, benefits, mechanism of action, proper dosage, potential side effects, safety considerations, and more. The information aims to complement, not replace, the guidance provided by healthcare professionals.

Key Composition & Ingredients

• Active Ingredient: Amlodipine (5mg) as amlodipine besylate
• Inactive Ingredients: May include microcrystalline cellulose, dibasic calcium phosphate anhydrous, sodium starch glycolate, magnesium stearate, and other pharmaceutical excipients (specific inactive ingredients may vary by manufacturer)

Uses of Amlokind 5 Tablet

Amlokind 5 Tablet is primarily prescribed for:

• Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): As monotherapy or in combination with other antihypertensive medications
• Chronic Stable Angina: For symptomatic treatment of chest pain related to coronary artery disease
• Vasospastic (Prinzmetal's or Variant) Angina: For management of chest pain caused by coronary artery spasm
• Coronary Artery Disease: For risk reduction in patients without heart failure
• Raynaud's Phenomenon: Off-label use for managing symptoms of poor circulation in fingers and toes
• Migraine Prevention: Sometimes used off-label to prevent migraine headaches
• Pulmonary Hypertension: Occasionally used as part of combination therapy for certain types of pulmonary hypertension

Benefits of Amlokind 5 Tablet

• Effective Blood Pressure Control: Consistently lowers both systolic and diastolic blood pressure
• Once-Daily Dosing: Convenient single daily dose improves treatment adherence
• 24-Hour Coverage: Provides round-the-clock blood pressure control
• Reduced Angina Episodes: Decreases frequency and severity of chest pain attacks
• Improved Exercise Tolerance: Enhances physical activity capacity in angina patients
• Minimal Effect on Heart Rate: Unlike some blood pressure medications, generally doesn't cause significant changes in heart rate
• Metabolically Neutral: Generally doesn't negatively affect blood glucose or lipid profiles
• Cardioprotective Effects: May help protect against certain cardiovascular events
• Vascular Protection: May slow progression of atherosclerosis in some patients
• Renal Preservation: May offer kidney protection compared to some other antihypertensive classes
• Well-Tolerated: Has a favorable side effect profile, especially in elderly patients

How Amlokind 5 Tablet Works (Mechanism of Action)

Amlokind 5 Tablet works through the following mechanisms:

1. Calcium Channel Blockade: Amlodipine selectively blocks L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle cells
2. Reduced Calcium Influx: By preventing calcium from entering cells, it inhibits the contractile processes of smooth muscle cells
3. Peripheral Vasodilation: This causes relaxation and widening of peripheral blood vessels, reducing peripheral vascular resistance
4. Coronary Vasodilation: Improves blood flow to the heart muscle by dilating coronary arteries
5. Afterload Reduction: Decreased peripheral resistance reduces the workload (afterload) on the heart
6. Blood Pressure Reduction: The net effect is lowered systemic blood pressure
7. Improved Myocardial Oxygen Supply: Enhanced coronary blood flow increases oxygen delivery to heart muscle
8. Decreased Myocardial Oxygen Demand: Reduced afterload decreases heart's oxygen requirements
9. Anti-atherosclerotic Effects: May have mild anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties that help protect blood vessels
10. Gradual Onset: Effects develop gradually, avoiding sudden blood pressure drops that could cause reflex tachycardia

Dosage of Amlokind 5 Tablet

Standard Dosage

• Initial dose for hypertension or angina: Typically 5mg once daily
• Maintenance dose: 5-10mg once daily, based on blood pressure response
• Elderly patients: Often started at 2.5mg daily, then adjusted as needed
• Patients with hepatic impairment: Usually started at lower doses (2.5mg)
• Maximum recommended dose: 10mg daily

Missed Dose

If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember. However, if it's almost time for your next scheduled dose (within 12 hours), skip the missed dose and continue with your regular dosing schedule. Do not double the dose to make up for a missed one.

Overdose

Symptoms of overdose may include excessive peripheral vasodilation leading to marked hypotension, reflex tachycardia, and potentially shock. Seek immediate medical attention if overdose is suspected.

How to Use Amlokind 5 Tablet

• Take Amlokind 5 Tablet exactly as prescribed by your healthcare provider
• Swallow the tablet whole with a full glass of water
• Can be taken with or without food at approximately the same time each day
• Do not crush, chew, or break the tablet
• Continue taking even if you feel well, as hypertension often has no symptoms
• Do not stop taking without consulting your doctor
• If you're also taking other medications, maintain consistent timing between doses
• Store at room temperature away from moisture, heat, and light

Side Effects of Amlokind 5 Tablet

Common Side Effects

• Peripheral edema (swelling of ankles or feet)
• Headache
• Facial flushing/warmth
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Fatigue or unusual tiredness
• Nausea
• Palpitations

Serious Side Effects (Seek Medical Attention)

• Severe dizziness or fainting
• Irregular heartbeat
• Severe swelling (especially with shortness of breath)
• Chest pain worsening
• Yellowing of eyes/skin (jaundice)
• Signs of allergic reaction (rash, itching, swelling, severe dizziness)
• Mood changes or depression

How to Manage Common Side Effects

• Edema: Elevate legs when sitting, limit salt intake, and notify your doctor if severe
• Headache: Usually temporary and responds to over-the-counter pain relievers (if approved by your doctor)
• Dizziness: Change positions slowly, especially when rising from sitting or lying down
• Flushing: Usually subsides with continued treatment
• Fatigue: Take the medication at bedtime if drowsiness is problematic
• Gum problems: Maintain good oral hygiene and regular dental check-ups

Safety Advice for Amlokind 5 Tablet

Alcohol

CAUTION: Alcohol may enhance the blood pressure-lowering effect of Amlokind, potentially causing excessive dizziness and hypotension. Limit alcohol consumption.

Pregnancy

CONSULT DOCTOR: Limited data available. Generally not recommended in pregnancy, especially in the later stages. Potential risks to the fetus. FDA Pregnancy Category C.

Breastfeeding

CONSULT DOCTOR: Amlodipine passes into breast milk in small amounts. Discuss risks and benefits with your healthcare provider.

Driving

CAUTION: May cause dizziness, especially when starting treatment or increasing dosage. Assess your response to the medication before driving or operating machinery.

Kidney Function

SAFE: No significant dose adjustment required for patients with renal impairment. Standard dosing is generally appropriate.

Liver Function

CAUTION: Metabolism and clearance may be impaired in patients with liver disease. Lower initial doses and careful monitoring are recommended.

Children

CONSULT DOCTOR: Safety and efficacy established for hypertension in children 6 years and older, with appropriate dose adjustments.

Older Patients

CAUTION: Elderly patients may be more sensitive to effects and side effects. Lower starting doses often recommended.

Allergy

AVOID: Do not use if you have a known hypersensitivity to amlodipine or other dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers.

Warnings & Precautions

• Hypotension: Can cause symptomatic hypotension, especially in patients with severe aortic stenosis or heart failure
• Heart Failure: Use with caution in patients with heart failure, as worsening may occur in some cases
• Angina Worsening: Rarely, increased frequency or severity of angina may occur when starting therapy or during dosage increases
• Hepatic Impairment: Reduced metabolism in liver disease may increase blood levels and effects
• Elderly Patients: May exhibit increased sensitivity to the drug's effects
• Surgery: Inform your surgeon about Amlokind use before any surgical procedure
• Dental Care: May cause gingival hyperplasia (gum overgrowth) in some patients
• Acute Hypotension: Risk may be higher when used with other antihypertensives
• Monitoring: Regular blood pressure monitoring is essential, especially when starting treatment

Interactions with Amlokind 5 Tablet

Drug Interactions

• Strong CYP3A4 Inhibitors (e.g., ketoconazole, itraconazole, ritonavir): May increase amlodipine levels
• CYP3A4 Inducers (e.g., rifampin, St. John's Wort): May decrease amlodipine effectiveness
• Beta-blockers: Combined use requires careful monitoring but can be beneficial
• Other Antihypertensives: Enhanced blood pressure-lowering effects
• Simvastatin: Amlodipine may increase simvastatin levels; dose limitation may be necessary
• Sildenafil and other PDE5 inhibitors: May enhance hypotensive effects
• Lithium: Possible neurotoxicity in some cases
• Immunosuppressants (cyclosporine, tacrolimus): May increase blood levels of these medications
• NSAIDs: May reduce antihypertensive effects of amlodipine
• Grapefruit Juice: May increase drug levels by inhibiting metabolism

Food Interactions

• Grapefruit/Grapefruit Juice: Can significantly increase amlodipine blood levels, potentially enhancing effects and side effects. Avoid regular consumption.
• High-Fat Meals: May slightly delay absorption but doesn't significantly affect overall effectiveness
• Salt/Sodium: Excessive sodium intake may counteract blood pressure-lowering effects

Contraindications

Amlokind 5 Tablet is contraindicated in:

• Patients with known hypersensitivity to amlodipine or other dihydropyridine calcium channel blockers
• Severe hypotension (systolic blood pressure <90 mmHg)
• Cardiogenic shock
• Unstable angina (except Prinzmetal's angina)
• Severe aortic stenosis (relative contraindication)
• Acute myocardial infarction (within the first 4 weeks, in some cases)

Safety Measures & FDA Pregnancy Category

• FDA Pregnancy Category: Category C (Animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus; no adequate studies in humans)
• Regular Monitoring: Periodic assessment of blood pressure, heart rate, and symptoms
• Baseline Tests: Liver and kidney function tests before initiating therapy
• Gradual Discontinuation: Abrupt withdrawal not typically necessary but gradual dose reduction may be preferred in some cases
• Drug Identification: Keep medication information readily available

Diet & Lifestyle Advice

• Follow a heart-healthy diet low in sodium (salt)
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins
• Limit alcohol consumption
• Quit smoking to enhance cardiovascular benefits
• Engage in regular physical activity as recommended by your healthcare provider
• Monitor your blood pressure regularly at home if advised
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Practice stress-reduction techniques such as meditation or deep breathing
• Stay adequately hydrated
• Limit caffeine intake if you notice it affects your blood pressure

Why Doctors Recommend This Medicine

Healthcare providers prescribe Amlokind 5 Tablet because:

• It effectively controls blood pressure with once-daily dosing
• It has a favorable side effect profile compared to many other antihypertensives
• It rarely affects heart rate or causes depression (unlike some beta-blockers)
• It doesn't negatively impact glucose metabolism (unlike some diuretics)
• It can be used safely in many patient populations including elderly
• It has minimal drug interactions compared to some alternatives
• It provides 24-hour blood pressure control with consistent blood levels
• It's effective for both hypertension and angina, simplifying treatment
• It's generally metabolically neutral, not affecting cholesterol or blood sugar
• It has cardioprotective properties beyond simple blood pressure reduction

Substitutes & Alternative Medicines

Similar Calcium Channel Blockers

• Other amlodipine brands/generics (different strengths)
• Nifedipine (extended-release)
• Felodipine
• Cilnidipine
• Lercanidipine

Alternative Approaches

• Other Antihypertensive Classes:
  • ACE inhibitors (enalapril, lisinopril)
  • Angiotensin II receptor blockers (losartan, telmisartan)
  • Beta-blockers (metoprolol, atenolol)
  • Diuretics (hydrochlorothiazide, chlorthalidone)
• Non-Pharmacological Approaches:
  • Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet
  • Sodium restriction
  • Regular exercise
  • Weight management
  • Stress reduction

Note: Substitutes should only be used under medical supervision

Storage Guidelines

• Store at room temperature between 15-30°C (59-86°F)
• Protect from light and moisture
• Keep container tightly closed
• Store in a dry place
• Keep away from children and pets
• Do not store in the bathroom
• Do not use after the expiration date
• Dispose of unused medication properly

User Feedback & Patient Concerns

Common questions and concerns about Amlokind 5 Tablet:

• How long does it take for the medication to start working?
• Will the ankle swelling go away over time?
• Can I take over-the-counter medications with Amlokind?
• Should I take my blood pressure medication if my readings are normal?
• Can I stop taking it once my blood pressure is controlled?
• What should I do if I experience dizziness?
• Does it cause weight gain?

Quick Tips

• Take at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels
• Do not suddenly stop taking the medication without consulting your doctor
• Monitor for swelling in ankles or feet and report if severe
• Keep regular follow-up appointments for blood pressure checks
• Maintain a blood pressure diary to track medication effectiveness
• Rise slowly from sitting or lying positions to prevent dizziness
• Continue healthy lifestyle measures alongside medication
• Be aware that full benefits may take 1-2 weeks to develop

Fact Box

• Chemical Class: Dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker
• Habit Forming: No
• Therapeutic Class: Antihypertensive, Anti-anginal
• Action Class: Calcium channel antagonist

Useful Diagnostic Tests

Before or during treatment with Amlokind 5 Tablet, your doctor may recommend:

• Blood pressure measurements
• Electrocardiogram (ECG/EKG)
• Basic metabolic panel
• Liver function tests
• Kidney function tests
• Lipid profile
• Complete blood count
• Echocardiogram (in certain cardiac conditions)

Disclaimer

This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions regarding a medical condition. Never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you have read in this article. If you think you may have a medical emergency, call your doctor or emergency services immediately. Individual responses to medications may vary, and not all possible side effects, interactions, precautions, or adverse effects are described here. Regular consultations with your healthcare provider are important for proper management of your condition.