Q. My doctor prescribed amlodipine for high blood pressure last month. I began retaining fluid within a week. Now my swollen feet and ankles are terribly uncomfortable. Getting into my shoes is a challenge and sometimes my skin feels so tight it might split.
In the last few days I have noticed a painful red rash spreading over my legs. I am convinced the amlodipine is to blame. Should I ask my doctor for a different medication?
A. Amlodipine (found in Azor, Amturnide, Caduet, Exforge, Lotrel, Norvasc, Twynsta, etc) is a calcium channel blocker that is prescribed to control hypertension. One of the most common side effects is swollen feet and ankles (peripheral edema). Dizziness, fatigue, flushing and heart palpitations are other potential complications. A skin rash could be worrisome and must be assessed immediately.
We are sending you our Guide to Blood Pressure Treatment so that you can discuss these side effects with your physician and look up alternatives that might be prescribed. You should be very clear with your doctor about the effects you have experienced and let him or her know that they are not acceptable to you.
