The drug Amlodipine Maleate is used to treat hypertension and angina. The spelling of this word is influenced by the Latin root words. The first syllable 'Am-' is pronounced as [æm] and is derived from 'amlo' meaning 'smooth'. The second syllable '-lo-' is pronounced as [loʊ] and is derived from 'dipine' meaning 'dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker’. The third syllable '-di-' is pronounced as [daɪ] and signifies a salt form of the drug 'maleate'. The last syllable '-ate' is pronounced as [eɪt] and represents the carboxylic acid salt.
Amlodipine maleate is a pharmaceutical compound that combines the active ingredient called amlodipine with maleic acid to enhance its stability and solubility. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker, which means that it inhibits the flow of calcium ions into smooth muscle cells surrounding blood vessels and the heart. This action allows the blood vessels to relax, widen, and improve blood flow while reducing the workload on the heart. Amlodipine maleate is primarily used in the treatment of hypertension (high blood pressure) and as an adjunct therapy for angina (chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart).
In addition to its cardiovascular benefits, amlodipine maleate has exhibited protective effects on the kidneys, making it a useful medication for individuals with kidney disease or diabetes-related kidney problems. It is administered orally in tablet form and is typically taken once daily, either with or without food. The dosage prescribed is individualized based on the patient's medical condition, response to treatment, and other factors determined by a healthcare professional.
Like any medication, amlodipine maleate may have potential side effects, including dizziness, fatigue, headache, flushing, edema (swelling), and stomach discomfort. Rare but serious adverse reactions may include allergic reactions, liver dysfunction, and an abnormally slow heart rate. It is essential for individuals taking amlodipine maleate to closely follow their healthcare provider's instructions and report any concerning symptoms promptly.
Overall, amlodipine maleate plays a crucial role in managing cardiovascular conditions and helps improve the quality of life for individuals with hypertension and angina.
The etymology of the word "Amlodipine Maleate" can be broken down as follows:
1. Amlodipine: The word "amlodipine" is a compound word, derived from two parts. The first part, "amlo-", is a contraction of "amino", referring to the presence of an amino group in the chemical structure of the drug. The second part, "-dipine", is a common suffix used in the naming of calcium channel blockers. It is derived from the prototype compound "nifedipine" and has been used to name several related drugs, including amlodipine. Thus, the term "amlodipine" indicates its classification as a dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker.
2. Maleate: The term "maleate" refers to the salt form of the maleic acid.