Amlodipine + Atorvastatin brands and prices in Pakistan

About Amlodipine and atorvastatin

This is one tablet that holds two medicines. Amlodipine is a calcium-channel blocker: it relaxes and widens blood vessels so blood flows more easily. Atorvastatin is a statin: it lowers cholesterol. The combination tablet is a prescription medicine for people who need both.

Who should not take it, or should take care

• Do not take it if you have ever had an allergic reaction to amlodipine, atorvastatin or anything else in the tablet.
• Do not take it if you have severe sudden liver failure or serious liver scarring that is no longer coping (US label).
• Tell your doctor if you have liver or kidney problems, an underactive thyroid, low blood pressure, heart failure, a recent heart attack or narrowed heart valves.
• Take care if you have had a bleed in the brain, a muscle condition such as myasthenia gravis, or if you regularly drink a lot of alcohol.
• Muscle problems are more likely in older people (65 or over), people with an underactive thyroid or kidney problems, and when certain other medicines are used.
• Diabetes: statins can raise blood sugar in some people, so your doctor may check it.
• Pregnancy: atorvastatin may harm an unborn baby, so this medicine is not recommended in pregnancy. Tell your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a pregnancy.
• Breastfeeding: the US label and Mayo Clinic say it is not recommended. NHS pages give mixed advice for the two single medicines (amlodipine not usually used; atorvastatin may be possible after checking). Ask your doctor.

Medicines and drinks that can interact

• Grapefruit and grapefruit juice: large amounts can raise the chance of side effects, including muscle problems
• Some antibiotics (such as clarithromycin, erythromycin, rifampicin) and antifungals (such as itraconazole, fluconazole)
• Ciclosporin, tacrolimus and other medicines that dampen the immune system
• Gemfibrozil and other fibrates, niacin (vitamin B3) and colchicine, which raise the chance of muscle problems
• Some HIV and hepatitis C medicines
• Other blood pressure medicines, simvastatin, warfarin, diltiazem and verapamil
• Digoxin and the contraceptive pill (atorvastatin can raise their levels)
• St John's wort
• Alcohol: limit it, as it can raise the chance of liver problems and low blood pressure

Always tell your doctor and pharmacist about every medicine, supplement and herbal product you take.

Using it safely

• Take it exactly as your doctor and the pharmacy label say, at the same time each day. You can take it with or without food.
• Swallow the tablet whole with water. Do not break, crush or chew it unless your pharmacist says it is fine.
• Do not stop it unless your doctor tells you to. Stopping suddenly can be harmful and cholesterol may rise again.
• If you miss a dose, follow your leaflet. NHS advice for both single medicines is to skip it and take the next at the usual time. Never take two together to catch up.
• Do not drive, cycle or use machines if you feel dizzy or sleepy.
• You may need regular check-ups and blood tests.
• If you take too much, speak to a pharmacist or call NHS 111 straight away. Do not drive yourself to A&E.
• Tell any doctor or dentist treating you that you take this medicine. Keep it away from children.

Common questions

Why is this one tablet instead of two?
It combines a blood pressure and angina medicine (amlodipine) with a cholesterol medicine (atorvastatin) for people who need both. Your doctor decides if it suits you.

Can I drink grapefruit juice?
Avoid large amounts. It can raise the chance of side effects, and NHS says to avoid grapefruit juice with amlodipine.

Why are my ankles swollen?
Swelling in the ankles, feet or legs is the most common amlodipine side effect. NHS says some side effects ease after a while. Tell your doctor or pharmacist if it bothers you.

What should I do about muscle pain?
Do not ignore unexplained muscle pain, tenderness or weakness, especially with fever, feeling unwell or dark urine. Contact your doctor or NHS 111 promptly.

Is it safe in pregnancy?
It is not recommended. Atorvastatin may harm an unborn baby. Talk to your doctor if you are pregnant or planning a baby.

Prepared from the sources listed by the MedInfoBase team. General information, not medical advice: it gives no doses. Your doctor or pharmacist decides the medicine and dose for you.