Amlodipine-atorvastatin, also known by its brand name, Caduet®, is a multi-action medication that combines two drugs. Amlodipine is used to help treat high blood pressure, while atorvastatin is thought to raise good cholesterol and lower bad cholesterol and fats in the system. When combined with healthy eating habits and exercise, this medication is said to help decrease the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Amlodipine is known as a calcium channel blocker. This medication is said to help deter the transport of calcium into the muscle cells that line the coronary and other arteries. Calcium is essential to muscle contraction, and blocking it will help to ease artery muscles, as well as dilate coronary arteries. Chest pain can be the result of constricted arteries, which in turn may cause an increase in blood pressure. It also helps to relieve the burden that is placed on the heart, which will lower the amount of oxygen required for it to function properly.
Atorvastatin is a statin — a drug that lowers the amount of bad cholesterol in the blood by reducing the amount produced in the liver. The drug is said to work by blocking the enzyme that creates cholesterol in the system. When bad cholesterol is reduced in the bloodstream, it may stop, and possibly even reverse, the effects of coronary artery disease. In addition, atorvastatin is said to lessen the concentration of triglycerides, while raising high-density lipoprotein (HDL).
Although amlodipine-atorvastatin is thought to be an effective treatment, it does come with some risks. Some common side effects may include headache, upset stomach, and fatigue. More serious side effects are allergic reactions that result in severe swelling, joint and muscle pains, or fainting. If the more serious side effects are experienced, the patient may be advised to seek medical care as soon as possible. This drug is not recommended for women who are nursing or pregnant, as it may have adverse effects on the baby.
The use of other medications while taking amlodipine-atorvastatin may increase or decrease the effectiveness of either drug. Medications used for infections, heart failure, or as birth control may be altered by amlodipine-atorvastatin. Those who take nitroglycerin are often encouraged to continue to do so, but their doctors must be notified. In addition to medications, grapefruit juice should be avoided, as it may interact with the drug.
