Pediatric Drug Dosing Reference

PICU DRUG INFORMATION


amLODIPine

Calcium channel blocker antihypertensive


Chronic management of hypertension
PO:
0.1-0.3 mg/kg (usual maximum: 10 mg/dose) Q24H

Not typically appropriate for acute hypertension as onset is too slow. Due to long half life of drug, dose adjustments should be made every 3 days. Antihypertensive effect is ~24 hours following the first dose. May cause hypotension or edema.

Availability: Commercially available 1 mg/mL liquid, 2.5 mg, 5 mg and 10 mg tabs

Pharmacology: Dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker – inhibits calcium channels, resulting in relaxed vascular smooth muscles and Peripheral arterial vasodilation, reducing peripheral vascular resistance. Does not reduce heart rate. Mostly hepatically cleared. Duration is ~24 hours, but can be shorter in infants and young children – therefore this age group may need BID dosing rather than once daily dosing.

Updated: 12/21/2022

Contact Information: This resource is maintained by Mark Duffett (duffett@hhsc.ca), Jon Wong (wongjon@hhsc.ca), and Nicole Clarke (clarken@hhsc.ca)
Disclaimer: This document has been created specifically for Hamilton Health Sciences (HHS) to use for its own patients and the information contained herein may not be applicable or relevant to other health care organizations. This document is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical or clinical advice from a qualified health care professional. HHS makes no representations or warranties as to the accuracy of the information. This material is current only to the date listed. This material is the intellectual property of HHS and may not be shared, duplicated, or distributed further without the consent of HHS. HHS assumes no liability for the use of this information by the recipient.