Hi doctor, I have high blood pressure for the last four years. According to my doctor, it happens from genetic since both parents suffering from it. Usually, I have a problem with diastolic blood pressure. It has reached 95, and even more since the systolic stays with 130 or max 140, since that time, I am using Amlodipine 5 mg and Concor 2.5 mg in the morning daily. My pressure is very good with the two pills, and, it is always 110/75. My question is about Amlodipine. Can I change it with another medicine? I am asking this because since I start with it, I started feeling tinnitus in both ears. Is it possible to be the reason? I saw in one report that Amlodipine cause tinnitus some time.
Hello. It is rare, but yes Amlodipine can cause tinnitus, and it is worthwhile to change it to other medications. The best alternative option is of ARBs (Angiotension II receptor blockers) like Telmisartan. The equivalent dose would be 40 mg once daily, and it would take a week for full effect. And, if blood pressure remains elevated after a week, which is unlikely, then you may need 80 mg. If Telmisartan is not available, then Olmesartan 20 mg is equivalent to Telmisartan 40 mg. It may take a few weeks for it to disappear after stopping it. If it persists after few weeks, then it needs to get examined by ENT specialist for other causes. I hope this helps you and get back if you have any doubts.