Amlodipine dosage
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Amlodipine Dosage: Efficacy, Safety, and Pharmacokinetics
Introduction to Amlodipine Dosage
Amlodipine is a long-acting calcium channel blocker commonly used to treat hypertension and angina. The appropriate dosage of amlodipine is crucial for maximizing its therapeutic benefits while minimizing potential side effects. This article synthesizes research findings on the dosage, efficacy, safety, and pharmacokinetics of amlodipine.
Efficacy of Amlodipine in Hypertension
Dosage Range and Blood Pressure Reduction
Clinical studies have demonstrated that amlodipine is effective in reducing blood pressure in patients with mild to moderate hypertension. The typical dosage range is 2.5-10 mg once daily. In a study involving 30 patients, amlodipine significantly reduced blood pressure by 16/12 mm Hg in the supine position and 14/4 mm Hg in the standing position over an 8-week period . Another study confirmed that doses of 2.5-10 mg daily effectively reduced both supine and standing blood pressures, with the minimum effective dose being 2.5 mg .
Long-Term Efficacy
Amlodipine provides smooth 24-hour blood pressure control without causing orthostatic hypotension. It is effective as monotherapy and in combination with other antihypertensive drugs, such as beta-blockers, diuretics, or ACE inhibitors . The drug maintains its efficacy over long-term use without developing tolerance .
Safety Profile of Amlodipine
Common Side Effects
Amlodipine is generally well tolerated, with a low incidence of serious side effects. The most common side effect is ankle edema, which is dose-dependent and usually mild 14. In a large pooled analysis, the incidence of severe side effects was lower compared to beta-blockers, with edema being the most notable side effect .
Safety in Special Populations
Amlodipine is safe for use in elderly patients and does not require dosage adjustments in patients with renal impairment. However, the dosage regimen for patients with hepatic impairment is not yet established . In children, doses as low as 2.5 mg can cause hypotension, indicating the need for careful dose management in pediatric populations .
Pharmacokinetics of Amlodipine
Absorption and Half-Life
Amlodipine has a mean plasma half-life of approximately 34-36 hours after oral administration, allowing for once-daily dosing . The drug reaches steady-state plasma concentrations after about seven days of repeated dosing, with an accumulation factor of approximately threefold .
Bioavailability and Distribution
The systemic availability of amlodipine after oral administration is around 64%, with a mean clearance rate of 7 ml/min/kg and an apparent volume of distribution of 21 l/kg . These pharmacokinetic properties support its efficacy in providing consistent blood pressure control over a 24-hour period.
Conclusion
Amlodipine is an effective and well-tolerated antihypertensive agent with a recommended dosage range of 2.5-10 mg once daily. It provides smooth, long-term blood pressure control and is safe for use in various patient populations, including the elderly and those with renal impairment. Its pharmacokinetic profile supports its once-daily dosing regimen, making it a convenient option for patients. However, careful dose management is necessary in pediatric populations to avoid hypotension.
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