Based on NIH | Can amlodipine make you feel dizzy, and when should I seek medical attention for this side effect?

Amlodipine can cause dizziness in some people, and most of the time it is mild and short‑lived; however, there are situations where you should seek medical attention. ^{[1] [2]} Dizziness with blood pressure medicines can happen more often when starting treatment, after a dose increase, or when standing up quickly, and simple measures often help. ^{[3] [4]}

Why amlodipine can cause dizziness

• Blood pressure lowering: Amlodipine widens blood vessels, which lowers blood pressure; if pressure drops a bit too quickly, you may feel lightheaded or dizzy. ^[3]
• Common side effect profile: Dizziness is a recognized side effect of amlodipine, usually rated as mild to moderate and often improves as your body adjusts. ^{[1] [2]}
• Timing matters: Dizziness is more likely in the first few doses or after a dose change, and may occur with standing (orthostatic lightheadedness). ^[3]

How common and how severe is it?

• Generally mild: In consumer and professional safety summaries, dizziness is listed among common vasodilation‑related effects (along with swelling, flushing, and nausea), and most cases are not severe. ^{[1] [3]}
• Comparative perspective: Across calcium channel blockers, dizziness can occur, but amlodipine tends to have a favorable overall tolerability profile compared with some alternatives, with edema more prominent than dizziness. ^{[5] [6]}

What you can do at home

• Stand up slowly: Avoid sudden position changes; take a moment sitting at the edge of the bed before standing. ^[4]
• If you feel dizzy, lie down or sit: Rest until it passes to reduce the chance of fainting; avoid driving or operating machinery while dizzy. ^[7]
• Hydration and regular meals: Dehydration and missed meals can worsen lightheadedness; keeping fluids and meals regular may help. ^[4]
• Track your readings: If you can, check your blood pressure when symptoms occur and note the timing relative to your dose to share with your clinician. ^[4]

When to seek medical attention

• Contact your clinician soon (non‑urgent):

  • Dizziness that is frequent, worsening, or doesn’t improve after several days of taking the same dose. ^[4]
  • Dizziness that limits daily activities or is accompanied by troublesome swelling of legs/ankles. ^{[1] [4]}
  • Dizziness after a recent dose increase or when restarting therapy, especially if it keeps returning. ^[3]

• Seek urgent care now (same day or emergency):

  • Dizziness with fainting, chest pain, irregular or very fast heartbeat, shortness of breath, confusion, or new neurologic symptoms. ^[3]
  • Signs of very low blood pressure such as severe weakness, inability to stand, or persistent near‑fainting. ^[4]
  • A sudden, severe worsening of angina (chest pain), which can rarely occur when starting or increasing amlodipine. ^[2]

Talk with your clinician about adjustments

• Medication review: Your clinician may adjust the dose, change the timing of your dose, or consider an alternative blood pressure medicine if dizziness persists. ^[4]
• Check for other contributors: Other medicines (like diuretics), dehydration, or illnesses can amplify dizziness, and addressing these can help. ^{[7] [4]}

Quick answers to common questions

• Is dizziness normal when starting amlodipine? It can happen and is often mild; it’s more common right after starting or after a dose change and may get better with time. ^[3]
• Should I stop amlodipine if I feel dizzy? Don’t stop suddenly without medical advice; contact your clinician if dizziness is troublesome or persistent. ^[4]
• Can I drive? Avoid driving or using machines if you feel dizzy; wait until symptoms resolve. ^[7]

Summary

• Yes, amlodipine can cause dizziness, usually mild and temporary. ^{[1] [3]}
• Use slow position changes, rest if dizzy, and avoid driving until it passes. ^[7]
• Seek medical advice if dizziness persists or worsens, and urgent care if it occurs with fainting, chest pain, or palpitations. ^{[2] [4]}