FDA Approves First Veterinary Amlodipine Product to Control Systemic Hypertension in Cats
April 29, 2026
Today, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration approved Amodip (amlodipine besylate tablets) chewable tablets for the control of systemic hypertension in cats. Amodip is the first FDA-approved amlodipine product for veterinary use and the second FDA-approved product for the control of hypertension in cats.
Systemic hypertension (high blood pressure) occurs most commonly in cats with chronic kidney disease but can also develop in cats with no identifiable underlying cause, or along with other chronic disease conditions. When left untreated, hypertension can cause damage to the eyes, kidneys, heart, and the brain and central nervous system.
Amlodipine, the active ingredient in Amodip, is a calcium channel blocker. Calcium channel blockers reduce blood pressure by relaxing blood vessels and reducing the heart’s workload.
Amodip chewable tablets are given to cats daily at the standard dose for the first 14 days of treatment. If there is an inadequate clinical response to treatment after 14 days, the dose may be increased according to the dosing table in the package insert. Cats less than 2.5 kg cannot be accurately dosed with Amodip.
Prescribing veterinarians should monitor blood pressure regularly and adjust the dose as needed to maintain blood pressure at the optimal level for the cat. A cat’s bloodwork should also be monitored early in treatment for potential changes in kidney and liver values. Cat owners should monitor their cats for side effects such as decreased appetite, vomiting, and diarrhea and report any concerns to their veterinarians.
Amodip is a prescription product because veterinary expertise is necessary to diagnose and treat hypertension in animals and to monitor the safe use of the product, including any adverse reactions.
Amodip is sponsored by Ceva Sante Animale, based in France.
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