Description
Mechanism of Action
Amlodipine relaxes peripheral and coronary vascular smooth muscle. It produces coronary vasodilation by inhibiting the entry of Ca ions into the slow channels or select voltage-sensitive channels of the vascular smooth muscle and myocardium during depolarisation. It also increases myocardial oxygen delivery in patients w/ vasospastic angina.
Absorption: Well absorbed from the GI tract. Bioavailability: Approx 60-65%. Time to peak plasma concentration: 6-12 hr.
Distribution: Volume of distribution: 21 L/kg. Plasma protein binding: Approx 98%.
Metabolism: Hepatically metabolised to inactive metabolites.
Excretion: Via urine (mainly as metabolites, <10% as unchanged drug). Terminal elimination half-life: 35-50 hr.
MIMS Class
Anti-Anginal Drugs / Calcium Antagonists
ATC Classification
C08CA01 – amlodipine; Belongs to the class of dihydropyridine derivative selective calcium-channel blockers with mainly vascular effects. Used in the treatment of cardiovascular diseases.;
