The NHS is urging people across the UK who take the widely prescribed medication amlodipine to call 111 immediately if they develop sudden and severe tummy pain that does not go away, as it could be a sign of acute pancreatitis induced by the drug.
What is Amlodipine and How Does It Work?
Amlodipine is a prescription medicine used to treat high blood pressure and angina. It works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, allowing blood to circulate more freely around the body. As with all medications, it can cause side effects, although not everyone experiences them.
Serious Side Effects: Acute Pancreatitis
The NHS has cautioned on its website that some reactions to amlodipine can be serious yet rare. One such reaction is acute pancreatitis, an inflammation of the pancreas that causes sudden and severe tummy pain. Sufferers may also develop a high temperature and experience nausea or vomiting. The abdominal pain may start suddenly and not go away, be severe, sharp or knife-like, affect the upper part of the tummy (between the ribs), one side or the whole tummy, spread to the sides and back, feel worse after eating, moving or lying down, and feel better when leaning forward or bringing knees to the chest (fetal position).
Other Possible Serious Side Effects
Other 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; and Stevens-Johnson syndrome, a serious skin reaction causing blistering, painful sores, skin peeling and flu-like symptoms. The NHS adds: “Though it is very rare, amlodipine can cause heart attacks.” It advises people to call NHS 111 if they think they might be having serious side effects.
Common but Less Serious Side Effects
More common but less serious side effects include swelling in the ankles, feet and legs (oedema); headaches, dizziness and feeling sleepy; a fast heartbeat or palpitations; a red and warm face or neck (flushing); tummy pain and nausea; constipation or diarrhoea; and 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.” Patients should speak to a pharmacist or doctor if they have any side effects that bother them or do not go away.
