What is the difference between amlodipine and Exforge?

Modern world has made many things much more accessible and many things in daily life much easier or faster to be done. However, as we already know or understood, with every pro always comes a cons. In this context of the modern way of living, it has led to higher risk for metabolic diseases due to unhealthy ways of living such as bad eating habits and sedentary lifestyle. Fortunately, health information becomes more easily available and this has increased the awareness of getting regular health screening. However, damages from modern life such as metabolic diseases can only be treated with medicines such as Exforge 5/80 mg.

Metabolic disease such as hypertension has become so common that it seems like a normal thing in society. It is important to treat hypertension although it may seem like a disease with no symptoms and always be catastrophic when it already causes complications. Hence, making sure the blood pressure is always at an optimal level ensures that the risk for complications remains low and the person can have a fulfilling life. Keeping the high blood pressure at a safe level often requires antihypertensive medicine especially in those who fail to keep the blood pressure normal with their current lifestyle. Due to the fact there are many kinds of antihypertensive medicines, medicines such as amlodipine and Exforge may stir confusion.

The differences between amlodipine and Exforge is best understood by knowing what each of them is. Amlodipine belongs to the drug class of calcium channel blocker (CCB) that works by preventing movement of calcium into the cells of the heart and blood vessels. This led to relaxation of blood vessels which then lowered the blood pressure. Exforge contains amlodipine and valsartan as its active ingredients. Valsartan belongs to the drug class of angiotensin receptor blocker (ARB) that works by blocking the effect of the angiotensin II hormone. This hormone in nature leads to constriction of the blood vessels. Hence, ARB blocks the action of the enzyme to the blood vessels from constriction to relaxation. In a nutshell, amlodipine is a type of drug whereas Exforge is a brand of antihypertensive drug containing both amlodipine and valsartan.

Exforge can be found available in the market in a few different dosages. This is why it is important for people with hypertension to get checked by doctors so that the suitable dosages can be recommended by doctors. The dose may change in a few more weeks to come if the doctor thinks the targeted blood pressure has yet to be achieved. Patients are likely to be given Exforge when there is the need for two or more types of antihypertensive drugs that are combined into one tablet. This makes it easier for patients to take it on a daily basis. It is best to take this medicine regularly to fully reap the benefits. Patients might be wondering how fast or quick does Exforge can lower blood pressure. In general, the blood pressure lowering effect can be achieved in 2 weeks but it may take up to 4 weeks. Thus, it is necessary for patients to take the medicine regularly and to take doctor’s appointments seriously to evaluate the effectiveness of the medicine.

Patients are advised to take this medicine at the same time of the day to help them remember. Patients need to take this medicine as directed by the doctor and never change the dose or take it excessively. Do not stop taking this medicine unless otherwise by doctors. Patients need to take this medicine continuously even if they are feeling well because most people with hypertension do not feel any symptoms although their blood pressure is very high. It may take several weeks for the medicine to fully work.

Just as with many other medicines, it is worth taking note that Exforge does come with potential side effects. Patients need to understand that medicine prescribed by doctors has been ensured to be beneficial for them with the lowest side effect possible.  Common side effects include dizziness, light-headedness, fatigue, insomnia, low libido, dry cough and stomach pain. If these side effects persist or get worse, you should tell your doctor. If serious side effect such as swelling of the legs or ankle, infection characterised by sore throat that does not resolve, fever and chills, symptoms of high potassium blood level (hypokalaemia) marked by muscle weakness and irregular heartbeat or sign of sudden kidney issues such as changes or low urination, patient should get immediate medical advice. Any unwanted effects from this medicine should be addressed to your doctor or pharmacist.

It can be concluded that Exforge is a good medication for those diagnosed with hypertension. The combination of the drug that is made into one tablet makes it easier for people to keep track of their medication and to take it daily. If a patient does have other medical conditions such as liver problems or heart diseases, the patient need to notify their doctor before taking this medicine. If patients are using any supplements or taking other medicine, be sure to let the doctor acknowledge this to prevent possible drug interactions.

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