What is the primary risk of combining Amlodipine with PDE-5 Inhibitors like sildenafil?

Pronounced drop in blood pressure (hypotension)

Erectile dysfunction medications belonging to the class known as PDE-5 Inhibitors, which includes sildenafil, exert a vasodilatory effect that lowers blood pressure. When these drugs are administered alongside amlodipine, which also functions as a vasodilator to manage hypertension, the combined effect on systemic blood pressure can be synergistic and overwhelming. This interaction leads to a pronounced and potentially dangerous drop in blood pressure, a condition known as hypotension. Symptoms associated with this severe drop include lightheadedness or even outright fainting (syncope). Because both medications actively promote the widening of blood vessels, the resulting hypotension requires close management and awareness from the patient and provider, especially regarding activities requiring stable blood pressure and alertness.