Skip to main content

Can I take Amlong and Zeptol cr together?

Drug interaction guide

Taking these two medicines together can cause the level of amlodipine (Amlong) in your blood to drop significantly. This means your blood pressure medication may stop working effectively, potentially leading to high blood pressure (hypertension) or chest pain (angina).

Video picks for Drug interactions

Continue reading below

Why this happens

Carbamazepine (Zeptol CR) is a powerful 'enzyme inducer'. It speeds up the liver's ability to break down other drugs. Because the liver processes amlodipine much faster than usual, the medicine is cleared from your body before it can do its job.

You should speak to your doctor before taking these together. Your doctor may need to increase your dose of Amlong or monitor your blood pressure more frequently. Do not stop taking either medication without medical advice.

Continue reading below

Pregnancy

This medicine can cause serious birth defects and developmental problems. You must use effective contraception and speak to your doctor immediately if you plan to become pregnant or find out you are pregnant.

Severe Skin Reactions

Seek urgent medical help if you develop a skin rash, mouth sores, or blistering. This can be a sign of a rare but life-threatening skin reaction, particularly in people of Han Chinese or South-East Asian descent.

Grapefruit Juice Consumption

Do not drink grapefruit juice or eat grapefruit while taking this medicine, as it significantly increases the level of the drug in your blood and the risk of serious side effects.

Grapefruit and Grapefruit Juice

Grapefruit can increase the amount of amlodipine in your blood, which may cause your blood pressure to drop too low and increase the risk of side effects like headaches or swelling. It is best to avoid grapefruit while taking this medicine.

Alcohol

Drinking alcohol while taking carbamazepine can make you feel very drowsy or dizzy. It can also increase the risk of side effects and may trigger seizures in some patients. It is best to avoid alcohol entirely.

Continue reading below

Taking multiple medicines? Our Medicines Interaction Checker helps you check whether your prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, and supplements are safe to take together. Simply search for your medicines to see potential interactions and what to do about them.

Disclaimer

This information is for general educational purposes only and should not be relied upon as a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult your GP, pharmacist, or another qualified healthcare professional before making decisions about your medications. Individual circumstances may vary, and only a healthcare professional who knows your medical history can provide personalised guidance.

Continue reading below

Article history

The information on this page is written and peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 14 Mar 2026 | Originally published
flu eligibility checker

Ask, share, connect.

Browse discussions, ask questions, and share experiences across hundreds of health topics.

symptom checker

Feeling unwell?

Assess your symptoms online for free

Sign up to the Patient newsletter

Your weekly dose of clear, trustworthy health advice - written to help you feel informed, confident and in control.

Please enter a valid email address

By subscribing you accept our Privacy Policy. You can unsubscribe at any time. We never sell your data.