Combination Amlodipine
Mechanism of Action
Blocks L-type calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle, causing vasodilation and reduced peripheral vascular resistance.
Indications
Combination formulation. Hypertension, angina. First-line antihypertensive for lunar residents — calcium channel blockers do not worsen exercise deconditioning, unlike beta-blockers, making them particularly suitable.
Dosing
Standard (Earth)
See Combination prescribing information. 5-10 mg once daily.
Lunar Protocol
Start at 5mg. Assess blood pressure response in context of lunar environment. Peripheral edema may be masked by fluid redistribution patterns in 1/6g — monitor by weight and clinical exam rather than extremity edema. Long half-life (30-50h) makes once-daily dosing reliable even with irregular sleep schedules.
Storage
Standard
Room temperature.
Lunar (Radiation + Temperature)
Stable at 15-25°C. Protect from light. Radiation-shielded storage. Long expiry (3-4 years) — can maintain 24-month supply. Critical for cardiovascular management in lunar population.
Supply Chain & Lunar Pharmacy Notes
Generic widely available. Highly stable. 24-month stock recommended given cardiovascular disease prevalence in lunar population. Can be co-packaged with lisinopril for combination hypertension management.
Drug Interactions
Simvastatin (increased simvastatin levels), grapefruit juice, cyclosporine.
Contraindications
Severe hypotension, severe aortic stenosis, unstable angina.
Side Effects
Peripheral edema, flushing, headache, dizziness.
Lunar Alternatives
Lisinopril (ACE inhibitor), losartan (ARB), nifedipine (shorter-acting CCB).