Before you begin taking a medication, be sure to inform your doctor of any medical conditions or Allergies you may have, any medications you are taking, whether you are pregnant or breast-feeding, and any other significant facts about your health. These factors may affect how you should take Amlodipine.

Chest pain/heart attack: Rarely, Amlodipine may worsen angina (chest pain) or precipitate a heart attack when it is first started or when the dose is increased. People with severe heart disease seem to be more at risk. If you experience worsening chest pain or symptoms of a heart attack (e.g., chest pain, pressure, or heaviness; nausea; shortness of breath; cool, clammy skin; anxiety) while taking Amlodipine, get immediate medical attention.

Grapefruit juice: Grapefruit juice may increase the effects of amlodipine. Avoid grapefruit juice while taking Amlodipine.

Liver function: Liver disease or reduced liver function may cause Amlodipine to build up in the body, causing side effects. If you have liver disease or decreased liver function, discuss with your doctor how Amlodipine may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Amlodipine, and whether any special monitoring is needed. Your doctor may recommend a lower dose.

Low blood pressure: Like other medications for blood pressure, amlodipine may cause a lowering of blood pressure when rising from a sitting or lying position, or a racing heart rate, especially during the first few weeks of treatment. If you feel dizzy or lightheaded or feel your pulse is racing, and this feeling does not go away after a few minutes, call your doctor. If you have heart disease (e.g., heart failure, heart attack) or are taking other medications that lower blood pressure, discuss with your doctor how this medication may affect your medical condition, how your medical condition may affect the dosing and effectiveness of Amlodipine, and whether any special monitoring is needed.

Pregnancy: Amlodipine should not be used during pregnancy unless the benefits outweigh the risks. If you become pregnant while taking Amlodipine, contact your doctor immediately.

Breast-feeding: It is not known if amlodipine passes into breast milk. If you are a breast-feeding mother and are taking Amlodipine, it may affect your baby. Talk to your doctor about whether you should continue breast-feeding.

Children: The safety and effectiveness of amlodipine have not been established for children less than 6 years of age.

Seniors: Seniors may be more sensitive to the side effects of amlodipine. Your doctor may suggest a lower dose.