Amdocal 5 is a widely prescribed cardiovascular medication containing Amlodipine Besilate, a long-acting dihydropyridine calcium channel blocker (CCB). It is primarily used to manage high blood pressure and prevent chest pain (angina). By relaxing the smooth muscle in the arterial walls, it decreases peripheral vascular resistance and reduces the workload on the heart. Produced by Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd., this guide provides updated clinical and pricing details for 2026.
What is Amdocal 5 Used For?
Amdocal 5 mg is indicated for the treatment of:
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Hypertension: To lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of fatal and nonfatal cardiovascular events, primarily strokes and myocardial infarctions.
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Chronic Stable Angina: Long-term treatment of chest pain caused by reduced blood flow to the heart.
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Vasospastic Angina (Prinzmetal’s): Treatment of confirmed or suspected contraction of the coronary arteries.
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Coronary Artery Disease (CAD): In patients without heart failure or an ejection fraction < 40%, it is used to reduce the risk of hospitalization for angina.
Critical Safety Note: Amdocal 5 is a maintenance medication. It is not designed for the immediate relief of an acute angina attack. For a technical overview of its molecular structure and action, you can review Amlodipine on DrugBank.
Dosage
Dosage must be strictly individualized. Standard clinical guidelines for adults include:
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Hypertension: Initially 5 mg once daily. The maximum dose is 10 mg once daily.
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Angina: 5 mg to 10 mg once daily. Most patients with chronic stable or vasospastic angina require 10 mg for adequate effect.
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Small, Frail, or Elderly Patients: Usually started on a lower dose of 2.5 mg once daily.
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Administration: Can be taken with or without food. It is most effective when taken at the same time every day to maintain stable blood levels.
Common Side Effects
Amlodipine is generally well-tolerated, but common adverse reactions related to its vasodilatory effect include:
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Edema: Swelling of the ankles or feet (most common).
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Dizziness: Feeling lightheaded, especially when standing up quickly.
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Flushing: A sense of warmth or redness in the face and neck.
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Palpitations: A sensation of a racing or pounding heart.
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Fatigue: General tiredness or somnolence.
Important Warnings & Precautions
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Aortic Stenosis: Use with caution in patients with severe aortic stenosis, as it may increase the risk of symptomatic hypotension.
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Liver Disease: Since amlodipine is extensively metabolized by the liver, titration should be slow in patients with severe hepatic impairment.
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Heart Failure: While generally safe, calcium channel blockers should be used with caution in patients with congestive heart failure.
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Interaction with Grapefruit: Avoid large amounts of grapefruit juice, as it may increase the concentration of amlodipine in the blood.
Amdocal 5 vs. Norvasc 5: Key Differences
Amdocal is the leading local brand in Bangladesh, while Norvasc is the global innovator brand.
| Feature | Amdocal 5 (Beximco) | Norvasc 5 (Pfizer/Upjohn) |
| Active Ingredient | Amlodipine Besilate | Amlodipine Besilate |
| Primary Use | Hypertension & Angina | Hypertension & Angina |
| Manufacturing | Local (Bangladesh) | Global/Multinational |
| Availability | Very High | Limited/High-end Pharmacies |
| Unit Price | ৳5.50 | ৳20.00 – ৳35.00 |
Amdocal 5 Price (February 2026 Update)
The following retail prices are current for Amdocal variants produced by Beximco Pharmaceuticals Ltd.
| Product Name | Strength | Unit Price (BDT) | Strip Price (15 Tablets) |
| Amdocal 5 | 5 mg | ৳5.50 | ৳82.50 |
| Amdocal 10 | 10 mg | ৳8.00 | ৳120.00 |
| Amdocal 2.5 | 2.5 mg | ৳3.00 | ৳45.00 |
| Amdocal Plus | 5mg + 50mg | ৳8.50 | ৳85.00 (10 tabs) |
Amdocal 5 Alternative Brands & Prices
Amlodipine is highly genericized in Bangladesh. Below are top-tier alternatives for 2026.
| Brand Name | Company Name | Price per Unit (BDT) |
| Amlovas 5 | Popular Pharmaceuticals | ৳5.00 |
| Amlotab 5 | Incepta Pharmaceuticals | ৳5.00 |
| Amocal 5 | Opsonin Pharma | ৳5.00 |
| Anzitor 5 | Square Pharmaceuticals | ৳5.01 |
| Cab 5 | ACI Limited | ৳5.02 |
| Amlocard 5 | Drug International | ৳5.00 |
| Amlopin 5 | ACME Laboratories | ৳5.01 |
| Cardipin 5 | Renata Limited | ৳4.50 |
| Lodipin 5 | Aristopharma Ltd. | ৳4.50 |
| G-Amlo 5 | Gonoshasthaya Pharma | ৳3.00 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About Amdocal 5
Q: What is the Amdocal 5 mg price in Bangladesh?
As of February 2026, the retail price for Amdocal 5 is ৳5.50 per tablet. A full strip containing 15 tablets costs approximately ৳82.50.
Q: What is Amdocal 5 used for?
It is primarily used to treat high blood pressure (hypertension) and to prevent chest pain (angina). It is also used to treat certain types of coronary artery disease.
Q: What are the common Amdocal 5 side effects?
The most frequent side effects are swelling of the ankles or feet (edema), headache, dizziness, flushing, and feeling unusually tired or sleepy.
Q: Is Amdocal 5 safe during pregnancy?
Amdocal 5 is classified as Category C. It should be used during pregnancy only if the potential benefit outweighs the risk to the fetus. Doctors often prefer other medicines like Nifedipine or Labetalol for pregnant women.
Q: Can Amdocal 5 be taken at night?
Yes, it can be taken at any time, but it is often recommended to take it in the morning to manage blood pressure throughout the day. Consistency is more important than the specific hour.
Q: Does Amdocal 5 cause weight gain?
Weight gain is not a typical direct side effect; however, fluid retention (edema) can cause a slight increase in weight. If you notice rapid weight gain, consult your doctor.
Q: Can I stop taking Amdocal 5 if my blood pressure is normal?
No, you should never stop suddenly. High blood pressure often has no symptoms. Stopping abruptly can cause your blood pressure to spike dangerously, increasing the risk of a stroke.
Q: Why does Amdocal 5 cause ankle swelling?
It works by dilating the blood vessels. In some people, this can cause fluid to leak into the surrounding tissues, particularly in the lower legs due to gravity.
Q: Is it safe to drink alcohol with Amdocal 5?
Alcohol can further lower your blood pressure, which may increase dizziness or fainting spells. It is best to avoid or strictly limit alcohol consumption.
Disclaimer: This is educational information only (updated February 2026). Not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a qualified physician before starting/stopping any medication.
