Amlodipine Besylate for Dogs and Cats

PetMD’s medications content was written and reviewed by veterinary professionals to answer your most common questions about how medications function, their side effects, and what species they are prescribed for. This content shouldn’t take the place of advice by your vet.

What Is Amlodipine Besylate?

Amlodipine is used for the long-term management of high blood pressure in many species including dogs, cats, and birds. High blood pressure in cats is typically caused by chronic kidney disease and thyroid disease.

High blood pressure in dogs can be from various causes, including overactive adrenal gland, chronic kidney disease, diabetes, and a certain type of adrenal gland tumor called pheochromocytoma. It may be used as a sole medication for the treatment of high blood pressure but is generally used in combination with other medications. Your veterinarian will determine which combination is best for your pet, based on its circumstances and symptoms.

Amlodipine is FDA-approved for human use under the brand names Norvasc®, Norliqva®, and Katerzia® and the generic amlodipine besylate. Amlodipine is currently not FDA-approved as a veterinary medication. However, it is occasionally utilized in the veterinary field, and veterinarians can legally prescribe certain human drugs in animals in certain circumstances. This practice is called extra-label or off-label use because this use isn’t described on the drug label. Your veterinarian will determine whether this medication is right for your pet.

Amlodipine is also a prescription medication for humans, frequently with dosages and side effects different from those prescribed for your pet by a veterinarian. Due to possible side effects, pets should not be given any medicine prescribed for humans.

In certain circumstances, your vet may recommend a compounded formulation of amlodipine. Compounded medications are prescribed if there’s a specific reason your pet’s health can’t be managed by an FDA-approved drug, such as if your pet has trouble taking pills in capsule form, the dosage strength is not commercially available, or the pet is allergic to an ingredient in the FDA-approved medication. Compounded medications are not FDA-approved. They are created by either a veterinarian or a licensed pharmacist on an individual basis to best suit a patient’s particular needs. You can learn more about compounded medications here.

How Amlodipine Works

Amlodipine is classified as a calcium-channel blocker. Amlodipine lowers blood pressure by blocking the movement of calcium into the smooth muscles of the heart and blood vessels. This causes the blood vessels to relax and dilate (widen), which improves blood flow into the heart.

Amlodipine Directions

Follow the directions on the drug label or per instructions provided by your veterinarian.

Generally, your veterinarian will recommend administering amlodipine either with or without  food, but giving it with food can decrease the risk of digestive upset.

Missed a Dose?

Speak with your veterinarian about what to do if you forget to give a dose of amlodipine. Generally, they may instruct you to give it when you remember, or if it is almost time for your pet’s next dose, to skip the missed dose and resume your normal dosing schedule. Do not give extra or double doses.

Amlodipine Possible Side Effects

Side effects of amlodipine may include:

• Vomiting

• Diarrhea

• Decreased appetite

• Low energy

• Dehydration

• Abnormally low blood pressure

• Abnormally slow heart rate

• Overgrowth of gums (in dogs)

Rarely, more severe side effects may occur:

• Elevated heart rate

• Slowed heart rate

• Collapse

• Severe weakness

• Changes in urination

• Limb swelling

• Abnormal bleeding

Call Your Vet If:

• Severe side effects are seen (see above)

• You see or suspect an overdose

• Your pet’s condition worsens or does not improve with treatment.

• You have additional questions or concerns about the use of amlodipine

Human Side Effects

While this is a human prescription medication there are different dosages and side effects that can occur in humans. If you accidentally ingest a pet medication, call your physician or the national Poison Control Center hotline at 800-222-1222.

Amlodipine Overdose Information

Overdoses of amlodipine can be life-threatening. Symptoms of an overdose may include severely low blood pressure, abnormally fast or slow heart rate, abnormal heart rhythm, severely low energy level, high blood sugar, muscle tremors, or seizures.

If you suspect an overdose, immediately contact your veterinarian, seek emergency veterinary care, or call an animal poison control center. Consultation fees often apply.

Pet Poison Helpline (855) 764-7661

ASPCA Animal Poison Control (888) 426-4435

Amlodipine Storage

Amlodipine should be stored at controlled room temperature between 68-77 F. Always confirm storage requirements by reading the prescription label.

Keep the container tightly closed to protect from moisture and light.

Keep out of reach of children and pets.

Compounded medications should be stored according to the compounding pharmacy’s label.