Amlodipine vs. Amlodipine Besylate — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Published on March 4, 2024
Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker used to treat high blood pressure, while Amlodipine Besylate refers to the besylate salt form of Amlodipine, enhancing its stability and facilitating its administration as a medication.
Difference Between Amlodipine and Amlodipine Besylate
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Amlodipine is a medication that works by relaxing the blood vessels, allowing blood to flow more easily and helping to lower blood pressure. It is also used to prevent certain types of chest pain (angina). Its action helps to reduce the risk of strokes and heart attacks.
Amlodipine Besylate is the besylate salt form of Amlodipine. The addition of the besylate group is a common pharmaceutical practice to improve the solubility and absorption of the drug in the body. This form is more stable and easier to handle during the manufacturing and storage processes.
Both Amlodipine and Amlodipine Besylate are used for the same medical purposes—to manage hypertension and prevent angina. The main difference lies not in their therapeutic action but in their pharmaceutical form. Amlodipine Besylate is essentially Amlodipine in a form that is more suitable for oral administration.
When prescribed, doctors and pharmacists may refer to the medication as Amlodipine, but the drug dispensed is often in the form of Amlodipine Besylate. This is because the besylate form is more commonly used in pill formulations, offering the needed consistency and efficacy for patient treatment.
Comparison Chart
Form
Active drug compound
Salt form of Amlodipine
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Purpose
Lower blood pressure, prevent angina
Same as Amlodipine
Solubility
Less soluble in water
Enhanced solubility in water
Stability
Standard stability
Improved stability for manufacturing and storage
Usage in Formulation
Less commonly used directly
Commonly used in oral formulations
Compare with Definitions
Amlodipine
A calcium channel blocker for hypertension.
Amlodipine helps reduce her high blood pressure.
Amlodipine Besylate
The besylate salt of Amlodipine.
Amlodipine Besylate is used in her hypertension treatment.
Amlodipine
Used to prevent angina.
He takes Amlodipine to manage his chest pain.
Amlodipine Besylate
Used for the same indications as Amlodipine.
He switched to Amlodipine Besylate for better tolerance.
Amlodipine
Acts by relaxing blood vessels.
Amlodipine eases blood flow, lowering heart strain.
Amlodipine Besylate
Offers improved stability in formulation.
Amlodipine Besylate tablets have a longer shelf life.
Amlodipine
Administered orally.
She takes her Amlodipine pill daily for heart health.
Amlodipine Besylate
Facilitates easier drug manufacturing.
Pharmacists prefer compounding with Amlodipine Besylate for its handling properties.
Amlodipine
Benefits heart and circulatory health.
Amlodipine is prescribed to lower stroke risk.
Amlodipine Besylate
Enhances drug solubility and absorption.
Amlodipine Besylate ensures consistent blood level maintenance.
Amlodipine
(pharmaceutical drug) A long-acting calcium channel blocker used as an anti-hypertensive and in the treatment of angina
Common Curiosities
Can I switch between Amlodipine and Amlodipine Besylate?
Yes, but since they are essentially the same medication in different forms, it's usually unnecessary. Consult a doctor for advice.
Does Amlodipine Besylate interact with other medications?
Yes, it can interact with certain drugs. Always inform your healthcare provider about all medications you're taking.
What is Amlodipine?
Amlodipine is a medication used to treat high blood pressure and prevent chest pain, acting by relaxing blood vessels.
Why is Amlodipine often prescribed in the besylate form?
The besylate form enhances the drug's solubility and stability, making it more effective for oral administration.
How should Amlodipine Besylate be stored?
Like most medications, it should be stored at room temperature, away from light and moisture.
How long does it take for Amlodipine Besylate to work?
It may take a few days to feel the full effect, but its blood pressure-lowering effect starts within a day.
Is Amlodipine Besylate better than Amlodipine?
"Better" depends on the context of formulation and administration. Efficacy-wise, they are the same since Amlodipine Besylate converts to Amlodipine in the body.
What is Amlodipine Besylate?
Amlodipine Besylate is the besylate salt form of Amlodipine, used to improve the drug's solubility, stability, and absorption.
Are Amlodipine and Amlodipine Besylate used for the same conditions?
Yes, both are used to treat high blood pressure and angina.
Is there a difference in side effects between Amlodipine and Amlodipine Besylate?
No, the side effects are related to the active compound, Amlodipine, and should be the same.
Can I drink alcohol while taking Amlodipine Besylate?
Alcohol may increase the blood pressure-lowering effects of Amlodipine, leading to dizziness or fainting. Consult your doctor for advice.
Can Amlodipine Besylate affect pregnancy?
Amlodipine can potentially affect pregnancy, so it's important to consult a doctor if you are pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
What should I do if I miss a dose of Amlodipine or Amlodipine Besylate?
Take the missed dose as soon as you remember, unless it's almost time for your next dose. Do not double up on doses.
How is Amlodipine Besylate taken?
It's taken orally, usually once a day, with or without food, as prescribed by a healthcare provider.
Why does my prescription say Amlodipine Besylate instead of Amlodipine?
Most oral formulations use the besylate form for its improved properties, so it's specified on prescriptions and packaging.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
