Can I take Amlodipine and Losartan together?

Why this happens

Both medicines work to lower blood pressure but in different ways: amlodipine relaxes the muscles in your blood vessel walls, while losartan blocks a hormone that causes blood vessels to tighten. Using them together has an 'additive' effect, meaning their combined power is stronger.

This is a very common and effective combination prescribed by doctors. You should continue taking your medication as directed, but be mindful of feeling dizzy or faint. To prevent this, try to stand up slowly from a sitting or lying position. Your doctor may want to perform routine blood tests to check your kidney function and potassium levels. If you feel severely dizzy or have a fainting spell, contact your GP.

Pregnancy

You must not take losartan if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant. It can cause serious harm or death to an unborn baby, particularly if used in the second and third trimesters.

High potassium levels (Hyperkalaemia)

Losartan can increase potassium levels in your blood. Avoid using salt substitutes containing potassium and be cautious with potassium supplements, as high levels can affect your heart rhythm.

Grapefruit consumption

Avoid eating grapefruit or drinking grapefruit juice while taking amlodipine. Grapefruit can significantly increase the amount of amlodipine in your blood, making side effects like dizziness and headaches much more likely.

Grapefruit juice

Grapefruit juice can increase the amount of amlodipine in your blood, which may cause your blood pressure to drop too low and increase the risk of side effects like headaches or swollen ankles. Avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice.

Alcohol

Alcohol can increase the blood pressure-lowering effect of these medicines, which may make you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or faint, especially when standing up. It is best to keep alcohol intake within recommended limits and see how the medicine affects you first.

Salt substitutes (Potassium-based)

Losartan can increase the levels of potassium in your blood. Using salt substitutes that contain potassium (such as Lo-Salt) can lead to dangerously high potassium levels (hyperkalaemia). Check with your pharmacist before using these.

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.