Amlodipine starts working on the day it is taken. However, it may take weeks to see the full effect. You should continue taking the medicine even if you feel better or if you do not notice any considerable difference. Consult your doctor if you have any concerns or you feel worse after taking the medicine.

Amlodipine may cause itching in some patients, though it is an uncommon side effect. However, if you experience severe itching contact your doctor.

No, there is no evidence that Amlodipine causes deterioration of kidney problems. Amlodipine can be used in normal doses in patients with kidney problems. In fact, its blood pressure-lowering effect, it helps to prevent injury to the kidneys due to hypertension.

Amlodipine can be taken anytime of the day. Usually, it is advised to be taken in the morning, but your doctor may advise to take it in the evening as well. You should take it at the same time each day so that you remember to take it and consistent levels of medicine are maintained in the body.

You should keep on taking Amlodipine for as long as your doctor has recommended you to take it. You may need to take it lifelong. Do not stop taking it, even if you feel well or your blood pressure is well controlled. If you stop taking Amlodipine, your blood pressure may increase again and your condition may worsen.

No, Amlodipine is not a beta-blocker. It belongs to a class of medicines known as calcium channel blockers. It lowers blood pressure by relaxing the blood vessels so that blood can easily flow through the blood vessels.

Amlodipine may cause some serious side effects such as liver problems (yellowing of skin, nausea, vomiting, and loss of appetite), pancreatitis (severe stomach pain, nausea, and vomiting), and recurrent chest pain which may be indicative of a heart attack. However, these side effects are rarely seen. Remember that your doctor has prescribed this medicine to you because the benefit to you is greater than the risk of any potential side effects. Follow your doctor's advice.

Consult your doctor first before starting any new prescription or non-prescription medicines or supplements. Take low sodium and low-fat diet, and adhere to the lifestyle changes as advised by your doctor. Avoid eating grapefruit (chakotra) or drinking grapefruit juice while taking Amlodipine. Stop smoking and taking alcohol as this helps to lower your blood pressure and prevents heart problems.

Amlodipine can cause ankle or foot swelling. To reduce swelling raise your legs while you are sitting down. Talk to your doctor if it does not go away.