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Amlodipine in Vet Medicine - Facts and Information

Amlodipine

Updated on September 10, 2024

Amlodipine is used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) in dogs and cats.

Amlodipine

Summary

Used For:

Hypertension in dogs and cats

Brands:

Norvasc®, Istin®, generic

Species:

Dogs and cats

Prescription required:

Yes

Pregnancy and lactation:

Safety has not been established in pregnant or lactating animals, so it is not recommended for pregnant or lactating animals unless maternal benefits outweigh potential risk to offspring

Side effects:

Lethargy, decreased appetite, hypotension, increased heart rate, increased kidney values
 

General description

Amlodipine is a medication used to treat high blood pressure in cats and dogs by allowing the blood vessels to relax and dilate, causing a decrease in blood pressure. The most common indication of this medication is for cats with hypertension, which is often associated with kidney disease and hyperthyroidism. [Buy Amlodipine now on Petco](https://www.petco.com/shop/en/petcostore/brand/amlodipine-besylate). A prescription from your veterinarian is s required to purchase prescription medications such as amlodipine in the United States.

Uses

Amlodipine is primarily used in veterinary medicine to control hypertension, particularly in cats with kidney disease or hyperthyroidism.

How it works

Amlodipine works as a calcium channel blocker by inhibiting calcium influx across cell membranes in both the muscle of the heart and the walls of blood vessels. This causes the blood vessels to relax and widen, thus decreasing blood pressure and afterload. In cats, amlodipine has been shown to decrease proteinuria.

Dosage

**Dogs:** 0.1 – 0.25 mgs /kg PO once daily as anti-hypertensive, begin at low end of dose range; use as adjunctive therapy after ace inhibitor therapy has been initiated. As adjunctive treatment of stage C and D myxomatous mitral valve disease give 0.05-0.1 mg PO once per day to reduce afterload; typically given with pimobendan and an ace inhibitor **Cats:** 0.625 – 1.25 mg/ cat orally once daily. Start with 0.625 mg dose/cat and recheck blood pressure in 1-3 weeks; if blood pressure is still greater than 200 mm Hg then increase to 1.25 mg/cat daily. Extra label hypertensive emergency dose of 0.2-0.4 mg/kg PO q 24 hours has been used with careful monitoring. Follow up blood pressure monitoring and evaluation of target organ damage (e.g. renal serum chemistry profile, SDMA, and UPC) every 3 months is indicated. Cardiac evaluation with an echocardiogram and/or radiographs may also be indicated.

Forms

2.5 milligram, 5 milligram & 10 milligram tablets

Storage information & handling

Tablets should be stored at room temperature in a tight, light resistant, childproof container.

What results can I expect?

Reduction in blood pressure.

Missed Dosage

It is most effective and safest to give the medication at the same time every day without skipping doses. If you miss a dose, give it as soon as possible. If it is closer than 12 hours before the next dose, skip the one you missed and go back to the normal schedule. Do not give 2 doses at the same time or close together to avoid hypotension (low blood pressure).

Overdose / acute toxicity

Amlodipine overdoses may cause hypotension, with staggering, collapse, and a slow heart rate. If you think your pet has had an overdose seek veterinarian care immediately.

Side effects

Lethargy, decreased appetite/weight loss, hypotension, increased heart rate, increased kidney blood values, decreased potassium blood values, and gingival hyperplasia especially in dogs

Contraindications

*Previous sensitivity, heart failure, liver disease

Drug interactions

Consult your veterinarian before using amlodipine with any other medications, even vitamins and supplements. Cyclosporine, ketoconazole, itraconazole, grapefruit juice, rifampin, and other drugs that reduce blood pressure may interact with amlodipine.

Precaution

Amlodipine is not recommended for use in pregnant or lactating animals. Side effects are infrequent when administered at appropriate doses.

Sources

Plumb’s Veterinary Drug Handbook

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Disclaimer

The information contained on this page is for educational purposes only. This medication should only be given under the advice of a veterinarian who has examined your pet under the laws applicable to your state of residence.