What is the maximum recommended dose of amlodipine (calcium channel blocker)?

Medical Advisory BoardAll articles are reviewed for accuracy by our Medical Advisory Board
Educational purpose only • Exercise caution as content is pending human review
Article Review Status
Submitted
Under Review
Approved

Last updated: June 13, 2025View editorial policy

Personalize

Help us tailor your experience

Which best describes you? Your choice helps us use language that's most understandable for you.

From the Guidelines

The maximum recommended dose of amlodipine is 10 mg once daily for most adults. For elderly patients or those with hepatic impairment, a lower maximum dose of 5 mg daily is typically recommended. Amlodipine is a long-acting calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for the heart to pump blood and reducing blood pressure. The medication has a long half-life of 30-50 hours, which allows for once-daily dosing. When initiating therapy, it's common to start at a lower dose (2.5-5 mg daily) and titrate upward as needed based on blood pressure response and tolerability. Patients should be aware that the full antihypertensive effect may take 7-14 days to develop. Common side effects at higher doses include peripheral edema, headache, and flushing. Amlodipine should be taken at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels, and can be taken with or without food.

Some key points to consider when prescribing amlodipine include:

  • The usual dose of amlodipine is 5 to 10 mg once daily, as stated in the guidelines 1.
  • Amlodipine has a long duration of action, which allows for once-daily dosing 1.
  • Common side effects of amlodipine include headache and edema, as noted in the guidelines 1.
  • Amlodipine can be used in patients with hypertension, and the dose can be titrated upward as needed based on blood pressure response and tolerability.

It's also important to note that amlodipine can be used in combination with other medications, such as beta blockers, to control blood pressure and reduce the risk of cardiovascular events. However, the dose of amlodipine should be adjusted based on the patient's response to therapy and the presence of any side effects. Overall, amlodipine is a safe and effective medication for the treatment of hypertension, and the maximum recommended dose is 10 mg once daily for most adults.

From the FDA Drug Label

The usual initial antihypertensive oral dose of Amlodipine besylate tablets is 5 mg once daily, and the maximum dose is 10 mg once daily. The recommended dose for chronic stable or vasospastic angina is 5 to 10 mg, with the lower dose suggested in the elderly and in patients with hepatic insufficiency. The recommended dose range for patients with coronary artery disease is 5 to 10 mg once daily.

The maximum recommended dose of amlodipine is 10 mg once daily 2.

From the Research

Maximum Recommended Dose of Amlodipine

The maximum recommended dose of amlodipine varies based on the patient's response and the condition being treated.

  • The dose can be adjusted from 5 mg to 10 mg once daily, depending on the patient's blood pressure response 3, 4, 5, 6.
  • Studies have shown that amlodipine 10 mg once daily is safe and effective in the treatment of mild to moderate hypertension 4, 5.
  • In some cases, patients may experience side effects such as ankle oedema at higher doses, but amlodipine is generally well tolerated 4, 5, 6.
  • The maximum dose is typically not exceeded due to the risk of increased side effects, but the optimal dose for individual patients may vary based on their specific condition and response to treatment 3, 7, 5.

Professional Medical Disclaimer

This information is intended for healthcare professionals. Any medical decision-making should rely on clinical judgment and independently verified information. The content provided herein does not replace professional discretion and should be considered supplementary to established clinical guidelines. Healthcare providers should verify all information against primary literature and current practice standards before application in patient care. Dr.Oracle assumes no liability for clinical decisions based on this content.

Have a follow-up question?

Our Medical A.I. is used by practicing medical doctors at top research institutions around the world. Ask any follow up question and get world-class guideline-backed answers instantly.