Can I take Amlodipine and Empagliflozin together?

Why this happens

Both medicines can lower blood pressure. Amlodipine is specifically designed to relax blood vessels and lower pressure. Empagliflozin is for diabetes, but it also has a mild 'water pill' (diuretic) effect that reduces blood pressure. When used together, these effects can add up.

What you should do

It is usually safe to take these together, but you should monitor your blood pressure regularly at home. To avoid dizziness, try to get up slowly from a sitting or lying position. If you feel very dizzy, have a persistent headache, or feel like you might faint, contact your doctor as they may need to adjust your doses.

Important precautions

Diabetic Ketoacidosis (DKA)

Empagliflozin can cause a rare but life-threatening condition called ketoacidosis, even if your blood sugar levels are normal. Seek immediate medical help if you experience nausea, vomiting, stomach pain, or fruity-smelling breath. Stop taking this medicine if you are fasting for surgery or have a severe illness.

Fournier’s Gangrene - empagliflozin

Seek urgent medical attention if you experience pain, tenderness, redness, or swelling in the genital or anal area, especially if accompanied by fever or a general feeling of being unwell. This may be a sign of a rare but serious infection.

Food and drink warnings

Grapefruit juice

Grapefruit juice can increase the amount of amlodipine in your blood, which may lower your blood pressure too much. While the effect is usually small, it is best to avoid drinking large amounts of grapefruit juice while taking this medicine.

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol can increase the blood-pressure-lowering effect of amlodipine, which may make you feel dizzy or lightheaded. For empagliflozin, alcohol can increase the risk of a serious complication called ketoacidosis and may affect your blood sugar levels. It is best to keep your alcohol intake within the recommended limits.

Using other medicines

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.