NHS says 'call 111' over serious amlodipine side effect

NHS says 'call 111' over serious amlodipine side effect If you experience this rare but serious side effect, you should seek help Brits taking a commonly prescribed drug are urged to “call 111” if they experience a symptom. This could be a sign of acute pancreatitis caused by the medication. Amlodipine is a prescription medicine used to treat high blood pressure and angina. It works by relaxing and widening your blood vessels, making it easier for blood to pump around your body. However, like all medicines, amlodipine can cause side effects, although not everyone gets them. On its website, the NHS warned that some of these side effects can be “serious” yet “rare”. One such side effect is acute pancreatitis, or swelling of the pancreas. This can cause a “sudden and severe tummy pain” that does not go away. If you have acute pancreatitis, you may also have a high temperature and feel sick or be sick (nausea and vomiting). The tummy pain may: - Start suddenly and not go away - Be severe, sharp or knife-like - Affect the upper part of your tummy (between your ribs), one side of your tummy or your whole tummy - Spread to your sides and back - Feel worse after you eat, move around or lie down - Feel better when you lean forward or bring your knees to your chest (fetal position) Other possible serious side effects of amlodipine include: - An allergic reaction (anaphylaxis) – causing symptoms such as a swollen throat or tongue, a raised, itchy rash and difficulty breathing - Stevens-Johnson syndrome – a serious skin reaction that causes blistering of the skin, painful sores and skin peeling, as well as flu-like symptoms The NHS adds: “Though it is very rare, amlodipine can cause heart attacks.” It told people to call NHS 111 if “you're taking amlodipine and think you might be having serious side effects”. Some less serious, but more common side effects of amlodipine include: - Swelling in your ankles, feet and legs (oedema) - Headaches, dizziness and feeling sleepy - A fast heartbeat, or feeling like your heartbeat is more noticeable (palpitations) - A red and warm face or neck (flushing) - Tummy pain and feeling sick (nausea) - Constipation or diarrhoea - Feeling weak and tired (fatigue) The NHS says: “If you feel dizzy or sleepy after taking amlodipine, do not drive, ride a bike or use machinery until you no longer have these symptoms.” You should speak to a pharmacist or doctor if you have any side effects that bother you or do not go away. For more information, visit the NHS website here.