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Feet Got So Swollen Shoes Did Not Fit Because of Blood Pressure Pill

Q. My doctor prescribed amlodipine for high blood pressure last month. I began retaining fluid within a week. Now my swollen feet and ankles are terribly uncomfortable. Getting into my shoes is a challenge and sometimes my skin feels so tight it might split.

In the last few days I have noticed a painful red rash spreading over my legs. I am convinced the amlodipine is to blame. Should I ask my doctor for a different medication?

A. Amlodipine (found in Azor, Amturnide, Caduet, Exforge, Lotrel, Norvasc, Twynsta, etc) is a calcium channel blocker that is prescribed to control hypertension. One of the most common side effects is swollen feet and ankles (peripheral edema). Dizziness, fatigue, flushing and heart palpitations are other potential complications. A skin rash could be worrisome and must be assessed immediately.

We are sending you our Guide to Blood Pressure Treatment so that you can discuss these side effects with your physician and look up alternatives that might be prescribed. You should be very clear with your doctor about the effects you have experienced and let him or her know that they are not acceptable to you.

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About the Author
Terry Graedon, PhD, is a medical anthropologist and co-host of The People’s Pharmacy radio show, co-author of The People’s Pharmacy syndicated newspaper columns and numerous books, and co-founder of The People’s Pharmacy website. Terry taught in the Duke University School of Nursing and was an adjunct assistant professor in the Department of Anthropology. She is a Fellow of the Society of Applied Anthropology. Terry is one of the country's leading authorities on the science behind folk remedies..
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