Amlodipine orthostatic hypotension
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Amlodipine and Orthostatic Hypotension: A Comprehensive Overview
Introduction to Amlodipine and Orthostatic Hypotension
Amlodipine, a calcium channel blocker, is widely used to manage hypertension. Orthostatic hypotension (OH) is a condition characterized by a significant drop in blood pressure upon standing, which can lead to dizziness, fainting, and falls. Understanding the relationship between amlodipine and OH is crucial, especially for older adults and those with comorbid conditions.
Amlodipine and Risk of Falls in Older Adults
Research indicates that the choice of antihypertensive medication can influence the risk of falls, syncope, and OH in older adults. A study from the ALLHAT trial found that while long-term use of amlodipine did not significantly affect the risk of OH, it did increase the risk of falls within the first year of initiation compared to chlorthalidone and lisinopril . This suggests that while amlodipine is generally safe, caution is needed during the initial treatment period.
Amlodipine and Orthostatic Hypotension in Hypertensive Patients
The AASK trial examined the effects of different antihypertensive medications, including amlodipine, on OH in patients with chronic kidney disease. The study found that amlodipine did not significantly increase the risk of OH compared to other medications like ramipril and metoprolol . This indicates that amlodipine can be a safe option for managing hypertension without exacerbating OH in this patient population.
Clinical Efficacy and Safety of Amlodipine
A comprehensive review of clinical trials has shown that amlodipine effectively controls blood pressure over a 24-hour period without causing significant OH . This makes it a reliable option for long-term hypertension management. Additionally, studies on elderly patients with isolated systolic hypertension have demonstrated that amlodipine significantly reduces systolic blood pressure without causing OH or reflex tachycardia, further supporting its safety profile in older adults .
Perioperative Considerations for Amlodipine
There are concerns about the use of amlodipine in the perioperative period. A case series reported severe hypotension in patients on amlodipine who underwent spinal anesthesia, despite withholding the morning dose of the medication . This suggests that while amlodipine is generally safe, it may pose risks in specific clinical scenarios, such as during surgery.
Conclusion
Amlodipine is an effective antihypertensive agent with a generally favorable safety profile regarding orthostatic hypotension. However, it may increase the risk of falls in the initial treatment phase and cause severe hypotension in perioperative settings. Clinicians should monitor patients closely during these periods to mitigate potential risks.
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