Medicine tips

• Read the fact sheet that comes with your medicine. It tells you when and how to take it. Ask for a sheet if you don’t get one.

• Take your medicine at the same time each day. If it upsets your stomach, take it with food or milk.

• If you miss a dose, take it as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. If so, skip the missed dose. Don't take a double dose.

• Call your healthcare provider or pharmacist if you have any questions about taking your medicine.

• Take your medicine even if you feel well. Most people with high blood pressure don’t feel sick.

For your safety

• Ask your healthcare provider or pharmacist if there are any foods or medicines you should avoid.

• To prevent dizziness, get up slowly after sitting or lying down.

• Don't stop taking your medicine unless your healthcare provider tells you to. Doing so can make your condition worse. When stopping this medicine, the dose may need to be slowly decreased.

• Tell your healthcare provider or pharmacist before taking any other prescription or over-the-counter medicines. This includes vitamin or mineral supplements and herbal remedies.

• Talk to your healthcare provider or pharmacist about whether drinking alcohol is safe while taking amlodipine.

• Be sure to refill your prescription before you run out.

• Don't share your medicine with anyone. Make sure your medicines are stored in a place that can't be reached by children or pets.

• Ask your healthcare provider how often you should have your blood pressure checked.

When to seek medical advice

Call your healthcare provider right away if any of these occur:

• You notice swelling in your ankles or feet or your skin flushes

• You have a headache or nausea

• You feel tired or weak

• You have severe dizziness

• You feel chest pain

• You have trouble breathing

• You develop a skin rash or itching