What effect is peripheral oedema associated with?

Peripheral oedema, which is the accumulation of fluid in the tissues of the lower extremities, is commonly associated with calcium channel blockers. These medications function by blocking calcium channels in vascular smooth muscle and cardiac muscle, leading to vasodilation. This relaxation of blood vessels can result in increased blood flow to peripheral areas, along with a potential increase in capillary permeability, ultimately leading to fluid leakage and oedema.

Calcium channel blockers, particularly dihydropyridine derivatives such as amlodipine and nifedipine, are well-documented in clinical literature as being linked to peripheral oedema. While this side effect can be bothersome, it is often dose-dependent and may not occur in all patients.

In contrast, ACE inhibitors may lead to other side effects such as cough or angioedema, beta blockers are usually associated with fatigue and bradycardia, and certain antidepressants can have a range of side effects including weight gain or dry mouth, but their direct connection to peripheral oedema is not as well established as that of calcium channel blockers. Thus, the relationship between calcium channel blockers and peripheral oedema is notably recognized and well-supported in pharmacological studies.