Change from Felodipine to Amlodipine
At The Orchard Surgery, we are reviewing blood pressure treatments as part of a wider NHS programme across our local area. As part of this work, we may recommend switching some patients from felodipine to amlodipine.
What are felodipine and amlodipine?
Both medicines:
- Belong to a group called calcium channel blockers
- Are used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension)
- Work in the same way by relaxing blood vessels, helping blood flow more easily
Because they act in the same way, we would not expect any change in side effects when switching between them.
Why are we suggesting a switch?
- Amlodipine has a longer half-life, which means it stays in the body for longer
- It may provide more consistent blood pressure control
- This change also aligns with local NHS prescribing guidance, where practices are working together to use effective treatments in a consistent way across the area
Dose equivalence
If you are on 2.5mg or 5mg felodipine, you will be switched to 5mg amlodipine. If you are on 10mg felodipine, your dose will remain as 10mg amlodipine.
| Felodipine | Amlodipine |
| 2.5mg |
5mg |
| 5mg | |
| 10mg | 10mg |
What will happen next?
- Before the switch:
- We may ask you to provide some recent blood pressure readings. This helps us ensure your current treatment is working well. We may not do this if you already have one recently.
- After the switch:
- We will ask you to check your blood pressure again after around 2–3 weeks. This allows us to confirm the new medication is working effectively for you.
This review also gives us a helpful opportunity to ensure your blood pressure remains well controlled.
Questions or concerns?
If you have any questions or would prefer not to switch, please contact the practice. We are happy to discuss this with you.
