Amlodipine is a commonly prescribed blood-pressure medication, and most people take it safely. Still, like all medicines, it can have side effects. What matters is knowing which ones are serious and need medical attention, versus ones that are common and mild.
Below are side effects you should NOT ignore, especially if they are severe, sudden, or getting worse.
12 Amlodipine Side Effects You Should Take Seriously
- Severe swelling (edema)
Swelling of the feet, ankles, legs, hands, or face, especially if painful or worsening. - Chest pain or worsening angina
New chest pain or pressure after starting the medication needs urgent care. - Fast, pounding, or irregular heartbeat
Feeling like your heart is racing, fluttering, or skipping beats. - Shortness of breath
Especially when lying down or with minimal activity. - Extreme dizziness or fainting
Can be a sign your blood pressure is dropping too low. - Severe fatigue or weakness
Not just tired—feeling unable to function normally. - Sudden weight gain
Rapid weight gain over a few days may signal fluid retention. - Severe flushing or hot sensation
Especially if accompanied by dizziness or chest discomfort. - Nausea or vomiting that won’t stop
- Severe headache
Especially if sudden, intense, or different from usual headaches. - Signs of an allergic reaction 🚨
- Rash or hives
- Swelling of lips, tongue, or throat
- Trouble breathing
→ Emergency care needed
- Yellowing of skin or eyes
Could indicate a rare liver issue.
Common (Usually Mild) Side Effects
These are not usually dangerous, but mention them to a doctor if they bother you:
- Mild ankle swelling
- Headache
- Flushing
- Mild dizziness
- Fatigue
Important Safety Notes
- Do NOT stop amlodipine suddenly without a doctor’s advice
- Side effects are dose-dependent (higher doses = more risk)
- Teens are rarely prescribed amlodipine, so any use should be closely supervised
When to Get Help
- Call a doctor immediately for symptoms #1–12 above
- Call emergency services for chest pain, breathing trouble, or allergic reactions
If you want, I can:
- Explain why amlodipine causes swelling
- Compare it to other blood-pressure medicines
- Help you figure out what’s urgent vs what can wait
Just let me know 👍
