Amlodipine causing joint pains?

[Happerz]

Hi, I have been on 10 mg for about two months now. My pre-existing bi-lateral shoulder bursitis is causing me a lot of pain after a stable (ish) 2.5 years. My feet and ankles are swollen and it is painful to walk. Horrible fatigue. Hips and knees starting to feel stiff. I'm 52 and work full time but feel I've aged 10 years in the last few months. I suspected PMR which would have accounted for everything but blood tests came back clear. I'm getting nowhere with GP. Seriously considering weaning myself off this horrible drug. Thinking about some high strength grape seed extract, get off this poison and deal with my BP the old fashioned way with diet and exercise. But whilst I can't walk any exercise is just not going to happen. Previously on perindopril, but at least the GP took me off this when I was doubled with stomach pain after 5 days. Totally fed up and exasperated feeling so old and full of aches and pains. Suggestions/advice welcome please.........

[lettingoffsteam]

It takes quite a time to get used to amlodipine.I couldn't take 10mg as my ankles really ballooned but 5mg did the job coupled with 2.5mg ramipril. Of course there's plenty of bp meds out there so maybe you need to try another.Good luck

[MichaelJH Heart Star]

Hello and welcome to the forum!

Amlodipine belongs to a group of drugs called CCIs (Calcium Channel Inhibitors). Oedema is a common side effect with these. I had this with Amlodipine and was given a low dose diuretic to counteract this (also helps with BP). When subsequently on Diltazium (another CCI) oedema was not a problem.

Whilst weight loss and exercise help with BP they may in themselves not be enough as some people's are naturally high. I am personally very dubious about most supplements sold reduce BP, cholesterol, treat diabetes, etc.

Have a chat with your GP. For me a low dose beta blocker made a significant difference.

[MountainGoat52 in reply to MichaelJH]

SNAP! Exactly my findings. With Amlodipine I had ankles like water melons. It also screwed me up mentally... couldn't concentrate on work which wasn't good as I was self-employed at the time. 😯 Diltiazem (prescribed for 6 weeks post bypass to prevent arterial spasms), no issues.

[Bingo88]

Amlodipine gave me a bad reaction. I had blisters above my ankles that have left me with bad scars on my legs. I was sent to hospital because they thought I had a blood clot in my leg. Take care Brian