PTCB Certified Pharmacy Technician (PTCE)MedicationsMedium
A pharmacy technician is reviewing a patient's medication profile and notes a new prescription for 'amlodipine 5 mg, take 1 tablet daily.' The patient also has a history of peripheral edema. Which of the following is an important counseling point or drug interaction to consider with amlodipine?
- AAmlodipine interacts significantly with grapefruit juice, requiring avoidance.
- BAmlodipine requires a potassium-restricted diet.
- CAmlodipine should be taken with food to prevent stomach upset.
- DAmlodipine can worsen peripheral edema, and the patient should be monitored for this side effect.
Show answer & explanationAnswer & explanation
Correct answer: D. Amlodipine can worsen peripheral edema, and the patient should be monitored for this side effect.
Amlodipine, a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker, is known to cause peripheral edema as a common dose-related side effect. Given the patient's history, monitoring for worsening edema is crucial.
Why the other options are wrong
- A. While some calcium channel blockers interact with grapefruit juice, amlodipine's interaction is generally considered less clinically significant than for other CCBs, and worsening edema is a more direct and common concern for this specific drug and patient history.
- B. Amlodipine does not typically require a potassium-restricted diet; this is more relevant for drugs affecting potassium levels directly.
- C. Amlodipine can be taken with or without food; stomach upset is not a primary concern.
Amlodipine Side Effects
Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker used to treat hypertension and angina, commonly associated with dose-dependent peripheral edema.
- Peripheral edema (swelling of ankles/feet) is a very common side effect.
- Other side effects include headache, flushing, and dizziness.
- Can be taken with or without food.
Memory trick: Amlodipine helps your 'Heart', but watch out for 'Leg Swelling'!