Overview
Amlodipine 5mg is a calcium channel blocker used off-label in veterinary medicine to treat systemic hypertension (high blood pressure) in dogs and cats. It works by relaxing vascular smooth muscles, thereby reducing peripheral resistance and improving blood flow. Amlodipine is especially beneficial for pets with chronic kidney disease, hyperthyroidism, or cardiac conditions that contribute to elevated blood pressure. It is prescribed under veterinary supervision and often forms part of a long-term management plan.
✅ Key Benefits / Features
- Effectively lowers systemic blood pressure in dogs and cats
- Improves blood flow and reduces cardiac workload
- Supports management of hypertension secondary to kidney or thyroid disease
- Once-daily dosing for convenience
- Can be used in combination with other antihypertensive agents
- Human-grade medication prescribed off-label for veterinary use
🧪 Ingredients
- Active Ingredient: Amlodipine Besylate – equivalent to 5mg of amlodipine base
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Inactive Ingredients (may vary by manufacturer):
- Microcrystalline cellulose
- Lactose monohydrate
- Magnesium stearate
- Sodium starch glycolate
- Film-coating agents
📊 Nutritional Composition / Active Ingredients
| Component |
Quantity per Tablet |
| Amlodipine Besylate |
5 mg |
💊 Uses / Indications
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Cats:
- Treatment of systemic hypertension, often secondary to chronic kidney disease or hyperthyroidism
-
Dogs:
- Management of high blood pressure due to adrenal gland disorders, diabetes, or kidney disease
- May be used as monotherapy or in combination with ACE inhibitors or diuretics
🐾 Feeding Instructions / Dosage
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Cats:
- Typical dose: 0.625–1.25 mg orally once daily
-
Dogs:
- Typical dose: 0.1–0.2 mg/kg orally once daily
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Administration:
- Can be given with or without food
- Tablets may be split or compounded for accurate dosing in small animals
- Regular monitoring of blood pressure is essential during treatment
⚠️ Possible Side Effects
-
Common:
- Lethargy
- Decreased appetite
- Mild gastrointestinal upset
-
Less common:
- Hypotension (low blood pressure)
- Bradycardia (slow heart rate)
- Azotemia (elevated nitrogenous waste in blood)
- Electrolyte imbalances (e.g., hypokalemia)
🔄 Drug & Food Interactions
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May interact with:
- Other antihypertensives (e.g., ACE inhibitors, beta-blockers, diuretics)
- Drugs affecting liver metabolism (e.g., ketoconazole)
- No significant food interactions reported
- Use cautiously with medications that lower heart rate or blood pressure
⚠️ Precautions
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Not recommended for:
- Pets with cardiogenic shock, severe aortic stenosis, or advanced liver disease
-
Use with caution in:
- Pregnant or lactating animals (safety not established)
- Animals with congestive heart failure or hypotension
- Monitor blood pressure, renal function, and electrolytes regularly
- Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight
- Keep out of reach of children and other animals
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IMPORTANT NOTICE - THIS IS A PRESCRIPTION ONLY MEDICATION (POM)
POMs are stored and dispensed directly from Ohana Animal Hospital under veterinary supervision.
As required by law, orders for this product will only be processed and delivered after our veterinary team has reviewed your pet's prescription and medical history, who may contact you or your existing vet for more details. Clients are encouraged to Autoship this product to avoid unnecessary delays.
Don't have a prescription? Use our VetCare Rebate program to enjoy $400 off when you renew your prescription.
