Based on FDA | Can I take amlodipine with yogurt, or does the calcium in yogurt reduce its absorption or effectiveness?

You can take amlodipine with yogurt. Current evidence indicates that dairy calcium does not meaningfully reduce amlodipine’s absorption or effectiveness, and amlodipine can be taken with or without food. ^[1] Amlodipine shows high and consistent bioavailability, and studies in both fasting and fed states found no meaningful difference in how much of the drug your body absorbs. ^{[1] [2]}

Why calcium in yogurt is not a problem

• Amlodipine absorption isn’t impaired by meals in general, unlike certain antibiotics or thyroid medications that bind to calcium in dairy. ^[1]
• Clinical pharmacokinetic reviews note stable bioavailability (roughly 60–80%) and a long half‑life, supporting consistent blood levels regardless of meal timing. ^{[2] [3]}

Official labeling insight

• Product labeling for amlodipine combinations (amlodipine/atorvastatin) states that food does not affect the bioavailability of amlodipine, even though it can slow or reduce atorvastatin absorption; the amlodipine component remains unaffected. ^{[4] [5]}
• Stand‑alone amlodipine labeling also notes that common co‑ingestants like antacids and grapefruit juice do not significantly change amlodipine exposure, reinforcing its robust, food‑independent absorption. ^{[6] [7]}

Practical tips for taking amlodipine

• Consistency helps: You can take amlodipine with or without food, including yogurt try to take it the same way each day to keep routines simple. ^[1]
• Watch for known interactions unrelated to calcium: Strong CYP3A inhibitors (for example, certain antifungals or macrolide antibiotics) can raise amlodipine levels; this is different from calcium and dairy and relates to liver metabolism. ^{[6] [7]}
• Grapefruit considerations: While amlodipine is less sensitive than some other calcium channel blockers, labeling indicates grapefruit juice does not meaningfully change exposure; still, many clinicians suggest moderation. ^{[6] [7]}

When you might choose to separate dosing

• If you also take other medicines that do bind to calcium (like levothyroxine, tetracyclines, or fluoroquinolones), those specific drugs often need separation from dairy; this precaution is for the other medicine, not for amlodipine. (This note is general medication guidance and not an amlodipine-specific requirement.)

Key takeaways

• It’s reasonable and safe to take amlodipine with yogurt. ^[1]
• Amlodipine’s effectiveness is not reduced by dairy calcium. ^{[1] [2]}
• Food does not affect amlodipine bioavailability, including in combination products where the amlodipine part stays unchanged by meals. ^{[4] [5]}

If you ever notice unusual side effects like dizziness, swelling in the ankles, flushing, or headaches, it’s a good idea to discuss timing, dose, and other medications with your clinician to tailor your regimen. ^[2]