Based on NIH | Can amlodipine cause numbness or tingling in the hands or feet, and when should I contact a doctor about this side effect?

Yes amlodipine can be associated with numbness or tingling. These sensations are often described as “paresthesia” (pins-and-needles) or “hypoesthesia” (reduced sensation), and they have been reported after amlodipine use. ^[1] These effects are listed among nervous system side effects observed in post‑marketing experience and clinical use, which include paresthesia and peripheral neuropathy. ^[2] Similar product information also notes hypoesthesia and paresthesia as possible reactions. ^[3] While not among the most common side effects, numbness or tingling have been documented and may be drug‑related in some individuals. ^{[4] [5]}

How this side effect happens

Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that relaxes blood vessels and can cause fluid shifts and vasodilation. Although swelling (edema) and flushing are much more common, some people may experience nerve‑related sensations such as tingling or numbness during therapy. ^[6] In official safety summaries and labels, paresthesia and hypoesthesia are acknowledged, suggesting a possible link in certain users. ^{[1] [2] [3] [4] [5]}

How common is it?

Overall, amlodipine has a favorable safety profile, with edema and flushing being the most frequent side effects, and nerve‑sensation symptoms appearing less often. ^[7] Compared with many other heart and blood pressure medicines, severe side effects with amlodipine are relatively uncommon, but tingling/numbness can still occur. ^[7]

When to contact a doctor

You might consider different action depending on severity and pattern:

• Mild, short‑lived tingling that starts soon after dose changes and improves on its own may be monitored. Because paresthesia is recognized in labeling, it can be reasonable to watch briefly if symptoms are mild and resolving. ^{[1] [2]}
• Contact a doctor soon if numbness or tingling is new, persistent beyond a few days, worsening, or interfering with daily activities. These features raise the chance that the symptom is medication‑related or due to another cause that needs evaluation. ^{[1] [3]}
• Seek urgent care if tingling is accompanied by red‑flag symptoms such as sudden weakness, facial droop, trouble speaking, severe headache, chest pain, shortness of breath, or if one side of the body is affected these could signal a neurological or cardiac emergency unrelated to the medication.
• Call your clinician promptly if you also have marked leg or ankle swelling, as edema is common with amlodipine and can coexist with abnormal sensations. ^[6]

What your clinician may do

A healthcare professional will typically review timing (when symptoms started relative to amlodipine), dose, other medications, and medical conditions such as diabetes, vitamin deficiencies, thyroid disease, or nerve compression. If amlodipine is suspected, they may suggest dose adjustment, switching to another blood pressure class, or monitoring to see if symptoms improve after changes. ^[7] They may also check basic labs or evaluate other causes of neuropathy if appropriate.

Practical tips you can try now

• Keep a brief symptom diary: when tingling occurs, how long it lasts, and any triggers.
• Avoid prolonged pressure on limbs (e.g., crossed legs), and change positions regularly.
• Manage swelling: gentle walking, leg elevation, and discussing compression options with your clinician may help if edema is present. ^[6]
• Do not stop amlodipine suddenly without medical advice; abrupt changes can raise blood pressure.

Bottom line

• Yes, numbness or tingling of the hands or feet has been reported with amlodipine (paresthesia/hypoesthesia). ^{[1] [2] [3] [4] [5]}
• Most people do not experience this, and amlodipine remains generally well‑tolerated, with edema being much more common. ^{[7] [6]}
• Contact your doctor if symptoms are persistent, worsening, one‑sided, or accompanied by other concerning signs. ^{[1] [3] [6]}