The NHS has issued a caution on its website for anyone taking a commonly prescribed medication for high blood pressure. Also known as hypertension, this condition affects roughly one in three adults in the UK, many of whom may not even be aware they have it. Since uncontrolled high blood pressure can raise the risk of stroke, heart disease, and kidney problems, early treatment is essential. This is where blood pressure–lowering medications come in. As of 2025, amlodipine (a calcium channel blocker) and ramipril (an ACE inhibitor) rank among the most commonly prescribed drugs in the UK. Recently, the NHS has highlighted some warnings regarding these medications. Let’s look at why and what precautions patients taking them should follow.What Is Amlodipine?Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker that helps manage high blood pressure. A single dose works for over 24 hours, so it only needs to be taken once daily. It is also prescribed for people experiencing chest pain. According to the Cleveland Clinic, amlodipine relaxes blood vessels and eases the workload on the heart. Each year, more than 30 million prescriptions are written for this medication. Many patients take amlodipine for long periods or even for life. It is usually recommended when lifestyle changes alone are insufficient to control blood pressure or when genetic factors make medication necessary.How Amlodipine Works?Amlodipine helps prevent future heart problems, including heart disease, heart attacks, and strokes. It is also used to relieve chest pain caused by angina. The drug lowers high blood pressure by relaxing and widening blood vessels, which makes it easier for the heart to pump blood throughout the body. In angina, chest pain occurs because arteries leading to the heart are narrowed and stiff. Amlodipine improves blood and oxygen flow to the heart, easing these symptoms. It is available only with a prescription and comes as a tablet or a liquid that is swallowed.Why Is the NHS Warning Against Amlodipine?Patients taking amlodipine should avoid one particular drink. The NHS website states: "Do not take amlodipine with grapefruit juice. Consuming large amounts of grapefruit or grapefruit juice can raise amlodipine levels in your body and worsen side effects. If affected, you may need to avoid grapefruit or grapefruit juice while on this medication."It adds: "Tell your doctor if you experience increased side effects, such as dizziness, flushing, or headaches, after consuming grapefruit or grapefruit juice. Otherwise, you can continue to eat and drink normally while taking amlodipine."Amlodipine Side EffectsThese side effects occur in more than one in 100 people. They are usually mild and temporary, and there are ways to manage them:Headaches: Rest and stay hydrated. Limit alcohol intake. Your pharmacist can suggest a suitable painkiller. Headaches usually ease within the first week of starting amlodipine. Contact your doctor if they persist or are severe.Feeling dizzy: Sit or lie down until the dizziness passes. Avoid driving, cycling, or operating machinery until you feel better.Flushing: Reduce coffee, tea, and alcohol consumption. Keep your environment cool, use a fan, spray your face with cool water, or sip cold drinks. This usually resolves in a few days; consult your doctor if it persists.Pounding heartbeat: Take amlodipine when you can rest or sit down if symptoms occur. Reducing alcohol, smoking, caffeine, and heavy meals may help.For patients with heart failure, it is advised to get the flu vaccine annually and the pneumococcal vaccine as recommended by your GP. These vaccinations are available for free on the NHS.
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