Can Amlodipine (calcium channel blocker) be taken with or without food?

From the Guidelines

Amlodipine can be taken either with or without food, as food does not significantly affect its absorption. This calcium channel blocker medication can be consumed at any time of day, but it's best to take it at the same time each day to maintain consistent blood levels. The standard dosage typically ranges from 2.5 mg to 10 mg once daily, depending on your doctor's prescription.

• Amlodipine works by relaxing blood vessels, making it easier for your heart to pump blood, which helps control high blood pressure and certain types of chest pain.
• The medication has a long half-life, meaning it stays in your system for an extended period, which is why it only needs to be taken once daily.
• If you experience stomach upset, taking it with food might help reduce this side effect.
• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, but if it's almost time for your next dose, skip the missed dose and continue with your regular schedule 1.

It's essential to follow your doctor's instructions and take Amlodipine as prescribed to ensure its effectiveness and minimize potential side effects.

• Always consult your doctor or pharmacist if you have any questions or concerns about taking Amlodipine with or without food.
• They can provide personalized advice and help you manage any potential interactions or side effects 1.

Remember, Amlodipine is a medication that should be taken as directed by your healthcare provider to ensure its safety and effectiveness.

• Be sure to discuss any questions or concerns you have about Amlodipine with your doctor or pharmacist to get the most out of your treatment plan 1.

From the FDA Drug Label

How should I take amlodipine besylate tablets, USP? Take amlodipine besylate tablets, USP once a day, with or without food. The bioavailability of amlodipine is not altered by the presence of food

Amlodipine can be taken with or without food. The presence of food does not affect the bioavailability of amlodipine, and it can be taken once a day at the same time every day, with or without food 2.

From the Research

Amlodipine Administration

• Amlodipine can be taken with or without food, as the food effect on its oral bioavailability is minimal or none 3, 4.
• The pharmacokinetic parameters of amlodipine, such as AUC and Cmax, are not significantly affected by food intake 3, 4.
• However, the Cmax of amlodipine may be reduced by 11.4% when taken with food 4.

Pharmacokinetic Characteristics

• Amlodipine has high oral bioavailability (60-80%) and accumulates to a steady-state with once-daily administration over a period of 1-1 1/2 weeks 5.
• The elimination half-life of amlodipine is 40-60 hours, which allows for once-daily dosing 5.
• The onset of effect is gradual after oral administration, with peak plasma drug concentration occurring 6-8 hours after dosing 5.

Clinical Implications

• Amlodipine can be administered without regard to meals, making it a convenient treatment option for patients with hypertension or angina pectoris 3.
• The minimal food effect on amlodipine's pharmacokinetics suggests that it can be taken with or without food, without significant changes in its efficacy or safety profile 3, 4.