Description

Amlodac M 25 – Strip of 15 Tablets

Amlodac M 25 is a combination medication that contains Amlodipine and Metoprolol, commonly used for the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and certain cardiovascular conditions, including angina (chest pain) and heart failure. The combination of a calcium channel blocker (Amlodipine) and a beta-blocker (Metoprolol) helps manage blood pressure, reduce heart rate, and improve overall cardiovascular health.

Composition of Amlodac M 25:

• Amlodipine Besylate (equivalent to Amlodipine 5 mg):
  Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that works by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which helps lower blood pressure and improves blood flow to the heart. This also helps to relieve chest pain (angina) and reduces the workload on the heart.
• Metoprolol Succinate (equivalent to Metoprolol Tartrate 25 mg as prolonged release):
  Metoprolol is a beta-blocker that works by blocking the action of adrenaline on the heart, reducing heart rate, and lowering blood pressure. It helps in managing angina, hypertension, and reducing the risk of complications after a heart attack. The succinate form of Metoprolol is a extended-release formulation, providing sustained control over heart rate and blood pressure.

Uses of Amlodac M 25 (Amlodipine 5 mg + Metoprolol 25 mg):

1. Hypertension (High Blood Pressure):
   The combination of Amlodipine and Metoprolol helps in lowering high blood pressure by reducing the heart’s workload and relaxing blood vessels. This reduces the risk of complications such as stroke, heart attack, and kidney damage.
2. Angina (Chest Pain):
   Amlodipine helps relieve chest pain by improving blood flow to the heart, while Metoprolol reduces the heart rate and workload, helping prevent chest pain and improving overall heart function.
3. Heart Failure:
   Metoprolol is used to manage heart failure by reducing the heart’s workload and preventing further damage. Amlodipine also helps by improving blood flow and reducing symptoms of heart failure, such as fluid retention.
4. Prevention of Heart Attack:
   This combination may be used in patients who have had a heart attack or are at risk of one, to help lower the chances of a repeat event by controlling blood pressure, heart rate, and heart workload.

Benefits of Amlodac M 25:

• Dual Action:
  The combination of Amlodipine (calcium channel blocker) and Metoprolol (beta-blocker) provides comprehensive cardiovascular protection by managing both blood pressure and heart function.
• Long-Lasting Effect:
  The extended-release formulation of Metoprolol (Succinate) helps maintain a steady heart rate and blood pressure control over a 24-hour period, making it convenient for once-daily dosing.
• Convenience:
  The combination in a single tablet reduces the need for taking multiple medications, improving adherence to the treatment regimen.

Common Side Effects:

• Dizziness or lightheadedness, especially when standing up quickly (due to lower blood pressure).
• Fatigue or feeling tired (common with Metoprolol).
• Swelling (edema), especially in the feet and ankles (due to Amlodipine).
• Slow heart rate (bradycardia) or feeling tired due to Metoprolol.
• Shortness of breath (especially in those with heart failure).
• Headache.
• Flushing or a warm feeling in the face (common with Amlodipine).
• Gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea or upset stomach.
• Low blood pressure (hypotension), especially when first starting the medication.

Precautions:

• Heart Conditions:
  Metoprolol should be used cautiously in patients with bradycardia (slow heart rate), heart block, or severe heart failure, as it can further slow the heart rate. Careful monitoring is needed.
• Kidney and Liver Function:
  Both Amlodipine and Metoprolol are processed by the liver and kidneys. Patients with kidney or liver disease should use this medication with caution and may require dose adjustments.
• Asthma or Respiratory Conditions:
  Beta-blockers like Metoprolol can worsen breathing problems in patients with asthma or chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), so they should be used cautiously in these individuals.
• Diabetes:
  Metoprolol may mask the symptoms of low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) in diabetic patients, so blood sugar levels should be monitored closely. Amlodipine does not have a direct effect on blood glucose.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding:
  Metoprolol is generally not recommended during pregnancy, especially in the later stages, due to potential risks to the fetus. Amlodipine should only be used in pregnancy if the benefits outweigh the risks. Breastfeeding should also be discussed with a healthcare provider, as both drugs pass into breast milk.
• Alcohol:
  Alcohol may increase the blood pressure-lowering effects of Amlodac M 25, leading to dizziness or fainting. Limiting alcohol intake while using this medication is advised.

Dosage:

• The usual dosage of Amlodac M 25 is one tablet (Amlodipine 5 mg + Metoprolol 25 mg) once daily. Your doctor may adjust the dosage based on your condition and response to the medication.
• Packaging: It is commonly available in a strip of 15 tablets, providing a 15-day supply when taken once daily.

Important Notes:

• Regular Monitoring:
  Patients taking Amlodac M 25 should have their blood pressure, heart rate, and kidney function regularly monitored to ensure the medication is working effectively and to detect any potential side effects early.
• Lifestyle Modifications:
  Along with medication, maintaining a healthy diet, reducing sodium intake, exercising regularly, and avoiding smoking and excess alcohol will help support blood pressure and heart health.

Always follow your healthcare provider’s instructions when using Amlodac M 25. If you experience any adverse effects or have concerns about the medication, speak to your doctor.