Amlodipine

Amlodipine: Uses, Dosage and Side Effects

Overview

• Calcium-channel antagonist, with predominant action affecting peripheral arteriolar vasculature, causing vasodilation and reducing afterload.
• Has mild negative inotropic and chronotropic effects, which are negligible at therapeutic doses.

Uses of Amlodipine

• Management of feline systemic hypertension (appears to be safe even if concurrent renal failure).
• Canine systemic hypertension therapy.
• Additionally, it has been demonstrated to lessen proteinuria in cats with systemic hypertension.

Dose of Amlodipine in Dogs and Cats

Dogs:

• Initial dose 0.05–0.1 mg/kg p.o. q12–24h.
• The dose may be titrated upwards weekly as required, up to 0.5 mg/kg
• monitoring blood pressure regularly.

Cats:

• 0.625–1.25 mg/cat p.o. q24h.
• The dose may be increased slowly or the frequency increased to q12h if necessary.
• Blood pressure monitoring is essential.

Side Effects of Amlodipine in Dogs and Cats

• Lethargy, hypotension or inappetence are rare side effects.
• Gingival hyperplasia reported in cats and dogs.

Contraindications of Amlodipine in Dogs and Cats

•  Avoid in cardiogenic shock, severe hepatic failure and pregnancy.

Some Notes:

• Amlodipine is processed in the liver, hence dosage needs to be decreased in cases of liver disease.
• When used as a single agent in dogs may increase RAAS and concurrent use of an ACE inhibitor should be considered.