If you’re checking the accuracy of that headline: amlodipine does have some important interactions and precautions, but “8 habits secretly screwing with your meds” is sensationalized.
Common things to be careful about while taking amlodipine include:
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Grapefruit/grapefruit juice: Unlike some other calcium-channel blockers, amlodipine does not have a major, well-established grapefruit interaction, so blanket warnings to completely avoid grapefruit are misleading.
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Alcohol: Can add to amlodipine’s blood-pressure-lowering effect and increase dizziness or light-headedness.
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Stopping it suddenly: Don’t stop prescribed amlodipine without discussing it with your clinician.
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Other blood-pressure medicines: Combining medicines can lower blood pressure too much in some people.
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NSAID painkillers such as ibuprofen or naproxen may affect blood-pressure control in some people.
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Certain medicines and supplements: Tell your doctor/pharmacist everything you take, including over-the-counter products and herbal supplements.
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Standing up quickly: Amlodipine can cause dizziness, particularly when starting or increasing the dose.
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Ignoring swelling: Ankle/leg swelling is a recognized side effect. Persistent or troublesome swelling should be discussed with your prescriber.
If you tell me your amlodipine dose and the other medicines/supplements you take, I can check the specific combinations and explain which precautions actually matter.
