What adverse effect should a client taking amlodipine be most vigilant about?

The most pertinent adverse effect for a client taking amlodipine to be vigilant about is leg edema. Amlodipine is a calcium channel blocker commonly used to treat hypertension and angina. One of its characteristic side effects is peripheral edema, which is often observed in the legs and ankles due to vasodilation and an increase in capillary permeability leading to fluid retention.

Patients may notice swelling in their lower extremities, which can vary in severity. This effect is generally dose-related and can be more pronounced in individuals with heart failure or in those taking higher doses of the medication. While dizziness can occur as a side effect of amlodipine, it is more transient and does not affect as many patients as leg edema does. The other listed side effects, such as erectile dysfunction and dry cough, are not commonly associated with amlodipine; the dry cough is more often linked to ACE inhibitors, while erectile dysfunction can occur but is not a primary consideration with this specific medication. Thus, patients should be educated about the possibility of leg edema and advised to report any significant swelling to their healthcare provider.