Amlodipine and Pain: What Users Say

• Fre...
• February 21, 2020

For High Blood Pressure "From day one, I experienced lightheadedness and once fainted. After one and a half years, the constant dizziness was crushing me, I couldn't concentrate, do anything physical, walk far, ride my bike. My work was suffering, and I was beginning to feel depressed and hopeless. My doctor finally (why so long?) took me off the amlodipine, and within 48 hours, my dizziness had gone. Also, I realized that the serious back pain that had been torturous for over a year faded away. Over the time I took this medicine, my gripes included painful urination, serious muscular pain in my leg and in my back. The worst thing was that my doctor was leaning more and more towards psychosomatic causes and trying to convince me I was provoking the symptoms due to depression. He wanted to put me on medication for this. It disgusts me that he didn't listen to me, that he didn't take me seriously, that he didn't take the amlodipine side effects into consideration until I argued with him for nearly an hour about it."

• Nic...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• June 9, 2020

For High Blood Pressure "I was on coveram for 8 years, and then early during this year, I developed a cough. So I was asked to take amlodipine 10 mg. After a week, I started having chest pain, a high racing pulse, hot face, and extreme fatigue, like I had no life. On top of it, my right hand was hurting. So I stopped taking them. My symptoms stopped, but after 4 days, I woke up and both my knees are swollen and painful. Has anyone experienced that? My GP said it's probably gout, but my instinct says it's that awful medication. It stays in your system for at least 11.5 days."

• Sca...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• September 26, 2020

For High Blood Pressure "Been on amlodipine for about 2 months. I haven’t been able to do anything this entire week because I was EXHAUSTED and had severe anxiety. Writing this review is taking every bit of strength I have. I’ve spent so much money going to doctors' appointments trying to figure out what’s wrong with me. I’m so glad I found this thread of reviews, as my symptoms mimic much of what has been said: earache, headache, fatigue, swollen glands, anxiety, ear ringing, finger pain, etc. Giving it a two because it can bring down BP, SLIGHTLY"

• Red...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• December 14, 2019

For High Blood Pressure "On amlodipine 8 years, 1st 4 years no problems, started having pain that got worse over time, 2 months ago my mom was hospitalized with swollen legs, they took her off her BP med, the swelling was a side effect. Yep amlodipine, I never knew we were on the same med. Did my research, I had 15 side effects. I took myself off after ordering holistic alternatives. I had chronic pain every day for 2 to 3 years some days worse than others, but always pain. I could no longer work out, I could barely move, hip pain, muscle pain, joint pain, no mobility/flexibility were so unbearable on some days all I could do was cry, gained 50 lbs, lost my libido, anxiety, brain fog & more. I've been off the amlodipine 6 weeks & 98% pain-free, mobility/flexibility coming back, I'm working out & maintaining BP. I'm aging backwards now, I felt like an old woman, but getting younger every day. I will do all I can through nutrition, holistic medicine, and working out to be healthy. My mom had a lot of the same side effects, she is no longer using her cane. Be your own advocate."

• Red...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• December 14, 2019

For High Blood Pressure "On amlodipine 8 years, 1st 4 years no problems, started having pain that got worse over time, 2 months ago my mom was hospitalized with swollen legs, they took her off her BP med, the swelling was a side effect. Yep amlodipine, I never knew we were on the same med. Did my research, I had 15 side effects. I took myself off after ordering holistic alternatives. I had chronic pain every day for 2 to 3 years some days worse than others, but always pain. I could no longer work out, I could barely move, hip pain, muscle pain, joint pain, no mobility/flexibility were so unbearable on some days all I could do was cry, gained 50 lbs, lost my libido, anxiety, brain fog & more. I've been off the amlodipine 6 weeks & 98% pain-free, mobility/flexibility coming back, I'm working out & maintaining BP. I'm aging backwards now, I felt like an old woman, but getting younger every day. I will do all I can through nutrition, holistic medicine, and working out to be healthy. My mom had a lot of the same side effects, she is no longer using her cane. Be your own advocate."

• Red...
• Taken for 5 to 10 years
• December 14, 2019

For High Blood Pressure "On amlodipine 8 years, 1st 4 years no problems, started having pain that got worse over time, 2 months ago my mom was hospitalized with swollen legs, they took her off her BP med, the swelling was a side effect. Yep amlodipine, I never knew we were on the same med. Did my research, I had 15 side effects. I took myself off after ordering holistic alternatives. I had chronic pain every day for 2 to 3 years some days worse than others, but always pain. I could no longer work out, I could barely move, hip pain, muscle pain, joint pain, no mobility/flexibility were so unbearable on some days all I could do was cry, gained 50 lbs, lost my libido, anxiety, brain fog & more. I've been off the amlodipine 6 weeks & 98% pain-free, mobility/flexibility coming back, I'm working out & maintaining BP. I'm aging backwards now, I felt like an old woman, but getting younger every day. I will do all I can through nutrition, holistic medicine, and working out to be healthy. My mom had a lot of the same side effects, she is no longer using her cane. Be your own advocate."

• Aml...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• February 25, 2017

For High Blood Pressure "This pill is absolute POISON!!! I only took it for a week and a half and ended up in the emergency room! I had a fast heartbeat and pulse, tight chest with pain, an extreme anxiety feeling, kidney pain, and my left arm was numb on and off and generally felt out of it and zombie-like!! Before I got fear-mongered into taking it, I was COMPLETELY NORMAL!!!! I have been trying to get back to normal ever since the ER trip when I got off this poison pill! There is NO accountability for these drug companies!! Do not trust these doctors, they are drug dealers for the pharmaceutical companies, and they don't care what happens to you!!! Do NOT take this poison!!"

• aml...
• November 16, 2009

Amlodipine for High Blood Pressure "This medicine and I did not mix. I was really sick the whole time I took the medicine. I swelled up on my hands, feet, and ankles. I was nauseous, extremely weak, my extremities were either numb, burning, or painful. I heard my heartbeat constantly in my ears and had this awful crawling pain up the back of my neck. Itched, sweated, and froze constantly. Stuffy nose and so much more that I actually could not sleep. No, this is not a medication for all people. Dose changes did not help since the low dose promoted the majority of my ill effects. This medicine does well for some but, do speak up if you do not feel well on the medication."

• aml...
• November 16, 2009

Amlodipine for High Blood Pressure "This medicine and I did not mix. I was really sick the whole time I took the medicine. I swelled up on my hands, feet, and ankles. I was nauseous, extremely weak, my extremities were either numb, burning, or painful. I heard my heartbeat constantly in my ears and had this awful crawling pain up the back of my neck. Itched, sweated, and froze constantly. Stuffy nose and so much more that I actually could not sleep. No, this is not a medication for all people. Dose changes did not help since the low dose promoted the majority of my ill effects. This medicine does well for some but, do speak up if you do not feel well on the medication."

• 40-...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• May 22, 2023

For High Blood Pressure "I’ve been taking 10 mg of amlodipine for the past 3 months, and I have recently developed severe body aches and pains. I’m extremely light-headed and almost passed out at work. I’ve developed anxiety and feelings of depression for the past couple of weeks. I was prescribed this medication as a result of HBP. Don’t know why the doctor did not start me off on a lower dose. I’ve told her about my symptoms, but she has not lowered the dose. I’m a 40-year-old female that, besides the HBP, I do not have other issues, and I’m not taking any other medications. I can’t sleep at night as I am struggling to fall asleep. I wake up fretting. I’m having tremors and muscle twitching, as well as a constant headache and nausea. I have a consult again with the doctor this week, but since yesterday, I have reduced my dose to 5 mg because the symptoms got worse a few hours after taking the medication. I’ve never been so sick in my life."

• Aml...
• October 2, 2024

For High Blood Pressure "My blood pressure has always been stable with medication, which included 5 mg of amlodipine, one a day. Eight weeks ago, for no reason that my doctor can find, my blood pressure rose significantly. My doctor increased the amlodipine to 5 mg twice a day. Immediately, my feet began severe burning and numbness. It was intolerable, with pain, a 10 on a scale of 1-10. After 6 weeks of horrible pain and burning, I found a study on amlodipine stating that 3 percent of people develop severe neuropathy, which improves by 95 percent after cessation of medication. I stopped the amlodipine and was given 20 mg of lisinopril twice a day. My feet are getting better but can take 10 days to clear your system of amlodipine. Worst experience of my life. Praying to get back to normal state."

• Rob...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• January 31, 2025

For High Blood Pressure "Diagnosed with high blood pressure. Started taking 5 mg Amlodipine daily, I’m experiencing ringing in the ears, palpitations, gas buildup, groin pain, and vision changes. Been on this medication for 3 years. I would advise anyone who has high blood pressure to reduce your weight, get on a healthy diet, and exercise daily. Over time, you can eliminate this medication."

• Jay...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• May 13, 2023

For High Blood Pressure "I was placed on amlodipine 5 mg and used this for 6 months+, and my BP was fine until I relocated and my GP decided to raise it to 10 mg; at this point, everything went south! The pain in my right knee increased, and my ankles and arms started feeling pain too. Now I have pain in my upper back and am extremely easily tired. It's gradually affecting my sex life, and I'm deciding to stop this medicine and try natural options. I thought it was only me, but after seeing other comments, then I know this medicine will slowly cause havoc. Though my BP stabilized and I have had readings around 120/80 for some days now, I can't live with the side effects. I'm really not sure why the doctors say the drug shouldn't be giving these side effects when there are several complaints from people. Anyway, good to learn from everyone."

• TOa...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• April 10, 2019

For High Blood Pressure "I was put on amlodipine besylate for hypertension about 2 years ago. I immediately felt lethargic, dizzy, tired, and anxious. I used to walk and hike, but could not anymore as my legs and feet got severely swollen, and I had pains in my legs. I also got bouts of vertigo and was very short of breath when walking up a mild incline. It felt like I was having a heart attack with chest pain. I gained about 20 lbs and struggled to get a good night's sleep. I went off it about a month ago, and my blood pressure is normal, my symptoms are gone, I have more energy, and can now hike as before. I cannot believe this is allowed to be prescribed."

• Arl...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• June 3, 2020

For High Blood Pressure "Amlodipine lowered my blood pressure fine. I didn’t know I was having a problem with it until I had taken it for about a year. My ankles and feet started to swell and hurt, and a diuretic didn’t even help the edema. I was told never to take it again, and my doctor said the edema would probably not get better."

• Ted...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• July 22, 2019

For High Blood Pressure "Starting taking Amlodipine Besylate 5mg in October 2018, started feeling like I had a bladder problem. Nothing found wrong with bladder, Pap smear negative, all blood work negative, but potassium level was elevated and so was BP. Dr. upped me to 10mg in April 2019. Since then, on the left side only - painful leg, thigh, and groin ache when standing or sitting down (after 3 months of use). Laying down gives relief, but once standing, pain comes back. Slight shoulder pain and shoulder weakness, and reoccurring chest/heart ache. Sleepiness also. Called doctor this morning after reading these reviews. Will be stopping medication as of today, 7-22-2019."

• Do...
• Taken for less than 1 month
• March 18, 2016

For High Blood Pressure "I would like to let everyone know that this medication did not work for me. It did not control my blood pressure well. At the same time, the side effects did permanent damage to both of my legs. My feet started tingling and are very sensitive. Now, my feet hurt. I still feel pain and numbness even though I stopped this medication two weeks ago. This medication might work for you. If you take this medication and experience tingling or sensitivity in your feet, immediately call the doctor and discontinue taking this medication. In my opinion, they should not be prescribing this medication in this country."

• Peg...
• August 6, 2019

For High Blood Pressure "I am 4 and a half months in on 2.5 mg once daily for high blood pressure. I was doing great, blood pressure was controlled, and as a bonus, it also pretty much stopped my migraines altogether. I was happy to think my blood pressure was controlled on the smaller 2.5 mg dose than the usual 5 mg. However, into month 3, I noticed I was developing sore, aching muscles. First legs, then arms, then ankles, wrists, neck, hips, and back. Each day felt like I had been hit with these deep, aching pains and extreme fatigue. I rode this out, thinking I could have a virus or summer flu bug. It never dissipated. I then decided to halve my dosage. I am on day two of splitting my 2.5 mg pill into 1.25 mg (half). The first day, no aches. Today, no aches. Fatigue is definitely down a notch. I am riding this out on 1.25 mg until I can get in and see my doctor. Under the 'rare or extreme' side effects listed, muscle pain and joint pain are listed. I don't think this is as rare as they say."

• jay...
• November 11, 2013

For High Blood Pressure "I started taking amlodipine besylate about 6 months ago, started at 5mg, now on 10mg. My feet, ankles, and hands swell. My top number has gone down from 210-220 to upper 130s to 140s, but bottom number has increased to mid 90s to 100s. I have severe back problems and kidney disease, doctor doesn't want to change medication because kidneys stop working when he does. Lisinopril doesn't work. Does anyone have any suggestions? My body just hurts all the time, some days can't even move."

• Hes...
• Taken for 1 to 2 years
• November 14, 2015

For High Blood Pressure "Started on 5mg once a day. Within three weeks had episode of eye pain and severe conjunctivitis. I didn't suspect the med, and neither did the eye doctor. Medication (drops ordered for eye problems). Conjunctivitis became chronic despite meds. Severe fatigue. Within five months, I was having pain and difficulty walking. My BP responded well and was normal, but had increased difficulty on short walks, developed 'brain fog', stopped gardening, walking, and daily exercises. I did not connect the med with the symptoms until a year later when I was unable to walk three level blocks because of leg, back, and foot pain. I decided it might be the med and stopped it. Now perfectly normal and BP mildly elevated. No more BP meds for me."

• Cra...
• Taken for 2 to 5 years
• October 21, 2018

For High Blood Pressure "Effective in lowering blood pressure with terrible side effects. Muscle pain, back pain, shoulder pain, headaches, balance issues, brain fog, memory problems, depression, erectile dysfunction. Length of use six years on and off. When side effects become intolerable, I stop using it and resume when blood pressure rises again. I live in the UK."

• KJa...
• August 11, 2016

For High Blood Pressure "I am 59 and have been taking amlodipine for a few years. I never realized that the pain in my ankles, feet, hands, and wrists was related. I thought it was just a matter of getting older. I also have gained weight on this medication. I've been dieting and I'm active, but the weight would not go down. I would get very tired in the afternoon. My doctor increased the medication and I wound up not being able to stand when I got out of bed. I decided to stop taking it for a few days. Almost all the pain went away and the swelling in my feet became less. I'm changing meds ASAP."

• KJa...
• August 11, 2016

For High Blood Pressure "I am 59 and have been taking amlodipine for a few years. I never realized that the pain in my ankles, feet, hands, and wrists was related. I thought it was just a matter of getting older. I also have gained weight on this medication. I've been dieting and I'm active, but the weight would not go down. I would get very tired in the afternoon. My doctor increased the medication and I wound up not being able to stand when I got out of bed. I decided to stop taking it for a few days. Almost all the pain went away and the swelling in my feet became less. I'm changing meds ASAP."

• Bin...
• Taken for 1 to 6 months
• October 11, 2019

For High Blood Pressure "5 mg amlodipine with 100 mg losartan. Initially good result, but after a few weeks, pain in hips, thigh, and leg muscles rendering walking a painful process. Mind-dulling experience also. Depression, anxiety, and lack of motivation."

• Not...
• November 8, 2019

For High Blood Pressure "My doctor gave me a 10 mg amlodipine prescribed dose to take along with another blood pressure medication. Then started the headaches, which did subside. Then heart rate slowed way down after about 3-4 months from 75 beats a minute to as low as 44! Then, preceding that, I started getting excruciating leg muscle pains in my left leg, along with terrible hip joint pain, as well as knee and ankle pain. At times I was limping like an old man. My doctor noticed my swollen ankles and said it was a known side effect of the amlodipine and prescribed a diuretic, which did remove the swelling but with a cost! I was nauseated and could hardly eat, and my hip pain and joint pain remained. I decided neither was worth the cost of my comfort, so I have stopped the diuretic and reduced the amlodipine to 5 mg. The muscle and hip pain and nausea stopped after a few days, but the knee joint still slightly aches. I’m going to stop taking the amlodipine soon and after reading the terrible side effects of amlodipine."