Wondering about medications, particularly amlodipine

[CindiW2]

Hi. I have had high blood pressure for years. Like really high -- 190+over 90 very often. So I'm working on taking medication but I have a question about amlodipine. I start with Lisinopril 40mg, but my doctor added amlodipine. It helps but my ankles and legs swell up really bad. Thoughts or suggestions would be helpful. thanks.

[Curiousguy999]

Diuretics?  I have been on Benicar (olmesartan) for many years, works very nicely. Amlodipinealso said to work nicely but may diminish your taste reception.

[CindiW2]

I don't know -- I got back on my meds (lisinopril and amlodipine) because my nurse practitioner is insistent. But I don't like amlodipine because it swells up my legs and ankles. But at least my pressure is down a few points, still high, but I hate meds. However, I'm working on taking it every day. I have a label on the bottle that I write down the day I take it with a check mark next to it because -- I can take the pill out of the bottle and forget if I took it. So now I write it down.

[Traveler07]

If your doctor still thinks everything is okay, then try support socks/stockings. I've been on BP meds, including olmesartan/hydrochlorothiazide, and I still need to wear support socks. I have a pair for light support and a pair for moderate support for days when I'll be on my feet a lot. This also helps my ankle pain.

Just a thought.

[Curiousguy999]

1.  You MUST take your meds every day.  Period.  No lapses.

2.  Ask your NP why you are not on diuretics ("water pills").
3.  Ask your NP about using a generic med called olmesartan--brand name Benicar.  It works very well, minimal side effects.

4.  prepared foods of all types  are high in sodium, so stay away from them--sausage, salami, ham, etc.  The deli counter is an especially rich source of sodium.