Amlodipine is an oral dihydropyridine. It is is sold under the brand name amlodipine besylate, which was first given the green light by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in the year 1987.

Indications that have been approved by the FDA:

• Hypertension
• Chronic stable angina
• Vasospastic Angina
• Angiographically Documented Coronary Artery Disease (CAD)

Uses that are not authorized by the FDA:

• Nephropathy caused by diabetes
• Raynaud phenomenon and left ventricular hypertrophy Raynaud’s phenomenon
• Ischemia myocardial silencieuse
• Pulmonary arterial hypertension

• Edema in the extremities, most commonly the hands, feet, ankles, and lower legs
• Headache
• Upset stomach
• Nausea
• Stomach discomfort
• Symptoms of vertigo or lightheadedness
• More frequent or more severe chest pain
• A heartbeat that is hammering, erratic, or quick.
• Fainting