People across the UK who take a widely prescribed medication are being advised to "call 111" should they develop a specific symptom, as it could be a sign of acute pancreatitis brought on by the drug.
Amlodipine is a prescription medicine used to treat high blood pressure and angina. It works by relaxing and widening the blood vessels, enabling blood to circulate more freely around the body.
However, as with all medications, amlodipine can cause side effects, although these do not affect everybody. The NHS has cautioned on its website that some of these reactions can be "serious" yet "rare".
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One such reaction is acute pancreatitis, which is characterised by inflammation of the pancreas. This can cause "sudden and severe tummy pain" that does not subside.
Those suffering from acute pancreatitis may also develop a high temperature and experience nausea or vomiting. The abdominal pain might:
- 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.
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