Perindopril/Amlodipine

Uses of Perindopril/Amlodipine

Perindopril and amlodipine is a combination of medicines that are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension). High blood pressure adds to the workload of the heart and arteries. If it continues for a long time, the heart and arteries may not function properly. This can damage the blood vessels of the brain, heart, and kidneys, resulting in a stroke, heart failure, or kidney failure. Lowering blood pressure can reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks.

Perindopril is an angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) inhibitor. It works by blocking a substance in the body that causes the blood vessels to tighten. This relaxes the blood vessels and lowers blood pressure.

Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker (CCB). It affects the movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. This relaxes the blood vessels and lowers blood pressure. A lower blood pressure will increase the supply of blood and oxygen to the heart.

Precautions and Warnings

You should not use this medicine if you are allergic to amlodipine or perindopril, or if:

• you have had angioedema (hives or severe swelling of deep skin tissues sometimes caused by allergic reaction);
• you recently took a heart medicine called sacubitril; or
• you are allergic to any other ACE inhibitor, such as captopril, enalapril, lisinopril, moexipril, quinapril, ramipril, Accupril, Prinivil, Mavik, Vasotec, and many others.

Dosage

The recommended dosage for  high blood pressure:

• Adults—At first, one tablet containing perindopril 3.5 milligrams (mg) and amlodipine 2.5 mg once a day. Your doctor may adjust your dose as needed. However, the dose is usually not more than perindopril 14 mg and amlodipine 10 mg per day.
• Children—Use and dose must be determined by your doctor.

Side Effects

Common Side Effects:

• Cough;
• Headache, dizziness; or
• Swelling in your hands or feet.

Serious Side Effects:

• A light-headed feeling, like you might pass out;
• Swelling in your hands or feet, rapid weight gain;
• Little or no urinating;
• New or worsened chest pain;
• Jaundice (yellowing of the skin or eyes); or
• High potassium–nausea, weakness, tingly feeling, chest pain, irregular heartbeats, loss of movement