DR AMIR KHAN WARNS OF SIDE EFFECTS IN RAMIPRIL AND AMLODIPINE

Dr Amir Khan, an NHS GP, has issued a warning to patients prescribed ramipril and amlodipine for high blood pressure, highlighting specific side effects associated with both medications. Dr Khan shared the alert via social media, uploading a clip from his appearance on ITV's Lorraine programme. He advised patients experiencing side effects to discuss alternative treatments with their local pharmacist or GP rather than stopping medication without medical guidance. Dr Khan emphasised that blood pressure medication remains life-saving despite potential drawbacks.

Regarding ramipril, Dr Khan explained that the drug works by altering kidney enzymes to reduce blood pressure, but this process releases bradykinin, a substance that can irritate airways and cause a persistent dry cough. He noted that patients with this symptom often undergo unnecessary chest X-rays or receive antibiotic courses before the medication is identified as the cause. For amlodipine, Dr Khan warned that the drug widens blood vessels but can cause fluid leakage into the ankles, resulting in swelling. According to Dr Khan's account, swollen ankles from amlodipine affect approximately one in five users and are "very common". The British Heart Foundation estimates that between seven and nine million people in the UK currently take blood pressure medication, though between 14 and 15 million adults are believed to have high blood pressure.

Dr Khan stressed that numerous alternative blood pressure medications exist for patients unable to tolerate ramipril or amlodipine. He recommended that anyone experiencing a dry cough or swollen ankles whilst taking these medications should consult their doctor to explore other treatment options. His alert targets two of the most frequently prescribed blood pressure tablets in the UK.