Amlodopine and PMR

[1Purplecrow]

Just started amlodopine for blood pressure. (160/103).

Any words of wisdom regarding the drug and PMR. I'm at 6mg pred and getting ready to drop to 5.5 mg.

[PMRpro Ambassador]

Never having taken it I won't comment on it specifically - but if you DO have any unpleasant side effects that you think could be due to it don't put up with them. Go back to the GP and discuss other options. It seems to be the standard go to for many doctors for some reason and I have heard other people asking about problems they have had - if it doesn't agree with YOU, don't be afraid to ask to try other things, it is by no means the only antihypertensive available!

[DorsetLady PMRGCAuk volunteer]

Hi,

Was on Amlodopine way before I started Prednisolone. No reports of problems with the former, nor its reaction to the latter. Just be aware that it may take your body a week or two to become acclimatised. But as PMRPro says there are plenty of other drugs to control high BP, which in itself can lead to hearts attaks if not treated. Not an option really. DorsetLady

[1Purplecrow in reply to DorsetLady]

I have tried all the classes of hypertensives, and for one reason or another, was unable to tolerate them.

Its coming down to the lesser of the evils.

My concern with amlodopine is the vaso dilation effect with regard to PMR and vasculitis.

Thank you for your replies. J

[Celtic PMRGCAuk volunteer in reply to 1Purplecrow]

Purplecrow, like you I have been unable to tolerate many BP drugs, including Amlodipine, which caused severe fluid retention/swelling of my lower legs and feet, leading to inflammation, a rash and varicose eczema being diagnosed, which all made walking difficult. I do know a few people who are taking it without too much trouble, but if you do experience unwanted side effects and have to discontinue it, then perhaps, if you haven't already tried it, you could ask for Losartan Potassium. After 18 months on many different hypertensives, Losartan is the only one that hasn't produced any noticeable side effects, and my pharmacist has said that it is the one about which he hears the least complaints from his customers.

[raymck]

Albeit sans steroids now, amlodipine caused me so much discomfort I have been told to stop. Taking it upset tummy and caused diarhoera in my case!