Amlodipine besylate is the calcium channel blocker that is primarily used for relaxing the smooth muscles of the arterial wall. By relaxing the arterial muscles, it can help to dilate the blood vessels and thus, lower blood pressure. Though it is very effective in the treatment of high blood pressure, like many other medications, it can also produce a few side effects in some people. Common Side Effects Amlodipine besylate can cause a number of side effects. However, all individuals taking this medication may not experience all the unwanted effects. The side effects that are more commonly observed are explained below. » The most common side effect of this drug is edema. Edema refers to retention or accumulation of excess fluid in the tissues. Edema or water retention can cause swelling. It has been observed in clinical trials that about 8% of the individuals experienced edema as a side effect of this drug. Swelling due to edema mainly occurs in the ankles and the feet. » Headache is another common side effect, which has been observed in about 7% of the patients in clinical trials. However, headaches experienced are not so severe. On the other hand, fatigue can be experienced by about 4.5% of the people who are on this drug, as per clinical studies. » It can also cause a few gastrointestinal or digestive problems in some individuals. The most common digestive side effects of this medication are nausea, vomiting, constipation, diarrhea, abdominal pain and loss of appetite. » This calcium channel blocker can affect the nervous system by blocking calcium channels. This in turn can produce a few adverse outcomes related to the nervous system. The most common nervous system side effects are dizziness, fainting, drowsiness, nervousness, spinning sensation, and insomnia. Serious Side Effects Though amlodipine besylate is a medication that is used to improve the functions of the cardiovascular system, it can cause a few undesirable side effects related to the heart and the cardiovascular system. » Such undesirable effects include rapid and irregular heartbeat, chest pain, easy bruising or bleeding, and a rare chance of an increase in the frequency of angina attacks in patients with serious heart disease. Hence, such people should exercise caution while using this drug. » Other less common, but serious side effects are high blood sugar, tremors and hot flashes, tinnitus or ringing in the ear, vertigo, joint and muscle pain, an increase in urination and jaundice. » Apart from these, weight gain and cough can be experienced by a few people. » Some people may also notice enlarged gums, medically referred to as gingival enlargement. » Men who take this drug might suffer from gynecomastia (enlarged breasts) and impotence, though these effects are very rare. » People allergic to this medication can experience mild to severe allergic reaction, which can manifest in skin rash, hives, itching, unexplained swelling, breathing difficulty and wheezing. » Pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as those trying to conceive should talk to their physician regarding the use of this hypertension medication. » Individuals with liver disease should take this drug only under the supervision of a certified health care provider. To avoid such unwanted secondary effects, be sure to take this medication in the appropriate dosage as prescribed by your physician. Alcohol consumption should be avoided if you are taking amlodipine besylate. In most cases, side effects subside as your body adjusts to a new drug. If the effects persist or worsen, be sure to seek prompt medical advice. Disclaimer: This Buzzle article is for informative purposes only, and should not be used as a replacement for expert medical advice.