Amlodipine
Brands: Norvasc, Lotrel
Amlodipine is used in pets to manage high blood pressure and associated heart conditions.
Used for
- Hypertension
- Heart conditions related to high blood pressure
How it is given
- Administration
- oral
- Frequency
- once daily
- Duration
- ongoing, based on condition
- Storage
- Store at room temperature, away from moisture and heat
- Pregnancy safety
- caution
Always confirm the exact dose with your veterinarian before giving any medicine.
Typical dose ranges
cat
- Standard
- 0.625 mg once daily
dog
- Large dogs
- 0.05-0.1 mg/kg once daily
- Small dogs
- 0.05-0.1 mg/kg once daily
- Medium dogs
- 0.05-0.1 mg/kg once daily
Ranges are reference only. Your vet sets the dose for your pet's weight and condition.
Active ingredients
- Amlodipine besylate
Side effects
Common
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
Rare
- Gingival hyperplasia
Severe
- Excessive drop in blood pressure
Do not use when
- Severe liver disease
- Known hypersensitivity to amlodipine
Interacts with
- Beta-blockers
- Other antihypertensives
Warnings
- Monitor blood pressure regularly
- Use cautiously in liver disease
Amlodipine questions
What is amlodipine used for in pets?
It is used to manage high blood pressure and related heart conditions.
Can amlodipine be given with food?
Yes, it can be administered with or without food.
How long will my pet need to take amlodipine?
This depends on the condition being treated; lifelong therapy may be required.
What should I do if I miss a dose?
Give the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it's close to the next dose.
Can I stop the medication if my pet seems better?
Do not stop without consulting your veterinarian.
Full drug detail
Overview
Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker used in veterinary medicine primarily to manage hypertension (high blood pressure) in dogs and cats. It helps in dilating blood vessels, thereby reducing the workload on the heart.
How It Works
Amlodipine works by inhibiting the influx of calcium ions into vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle. This action relaxes the blood vessels, lowering blood pressure and allowing the heart to pump more efficiently.
Uses & Indications
Amlodipine is indicated for managing systemic hypertension in pets, particularly cats. It is also used for controlling certain heart conditions that result from high blood pressure.
Dosage Guidelines
Dogs
- Small Dogs: 0.05-0.1 mg/kg once daily
- Medium Dogs: 0.05-0.1 mg/kg once daily
- Large Dogs: 0.05-0.1 mg/kg once daily
Cats
- Standard Dosage: 0.625 mg once daily
Dosages should be adjusted based on blood pressure monitoring and veterinary advice.
Administration
Amlodipine is administered orally and is typically given once daily.
Side Effects
Common
- Lethargy
- Loss of appetite
Rare
- Gingival hyperplasia
Severe
- Excessive drop in blood pressure (hypotension)
Precautions & Warnings
Before starting amlodipine, a full medical history and examination should be conducted by a veterinarian. It should be used cautiously in animals with liver disease.
Drug Interactions
- Drug Interaction 1: Beta-blockers
- Drug Interaction 2: Other antihypertensives
Always inform your veterinarian about any other medications your pet is taking.
Storage
Store amlodipine at room temperature, away from moisture and heat.
FAQ
- Question: What is amlodipine used for in pets? Answer: It is used to manage high blood pressure and related heart conditions.
- Question: Can amlodipine be given with food? Answer: Yes, it can be administered with or without food.
- Question: How long will my pet need to take amlodipine? Answer: This depends on the condition being treated; lifelong therapy may be required.
- Question: What should I do if I miss a dose? Answer: Give the missed dose as soon as you remember unless it's close to the next dose.
- Question: Can I stop the medication if my pet seems better? Answer: Do not stop without consulting your veterinarian.
Important Recommendations
Always consult a veterinarian before starting or stopping amlodipine. Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential to ensure the efficacy and safety of the treatment.
Conclusion
Amlodipine is a critical component in the management of hypertension in pets. With careful usage under veterinary guidance, it can significantly improve the quality of life for affected animals.