Is amlodipine safe during pregnancy?

Q: I am 34 years old female. I am taking Amlozek (5 mg) once a day for my high blood pressure. My blood pressure is now under control. I am planning to conceive. Can I continue the same tablet during the pregnancy?

A:Amlozek is the brand name; the name of the medicine is amlodipine. It is not advised for pregnant and/or breast-feeding women. The only safe medicine for blood pressure doing pregnancy is methyldopa (sold under the brand name of Alphadopa) (250 mg) two times daily, and could be increased to 500 mg twice daily if required.