Norvasc

amlodipine

Uses

Norvasc (Amlodipine) is used in the treatment of chest pain (angina) and high blood pressure. Amlodipine is alternatively referred to as a blocker of the calcium channel. It widens and relaxes the blood vessels to enable easier flow of blood by the blocking of calcium. Reducing high blood pressure is helpful in the prevention of kidney problems, heart attacks and strokes.

How it is used

Typically, Norvasc is taken twice a day, with food or without it as specified by your physician. Maximum benefit from the drug can be obtained if it is used regularly, at the same times. Its efficiency is reduced if it is only used when chest pains are experienced, but when it is regularly used as recommended in the prevention of the chest pains. Take the medication even after you feel better and do not stop unless directed to do so by your doctor since the chest pains may grow worse if the use of the drug is stopped suddenly. The dose you take may need to be reduced gradually.

Norvasc Side effects

Norvasc may cause lightheadedness and dizziness in the early stages. It should be taken cautiously for activities that need concentration like driving. When you rise from a lying or seated position, you should do so slowly so that your body may get enough time for adjustment.

Effects such as fatigue, nausea, weakness, drowsiness, stomach pains, flushing, head aches or muscle cramps may be experienced and if they get worse or persist, you should notify your doctor immediately. Another serious side effect that should be immediately reported is the swelling of the feet and hands. There are a number of other serious but unlikely side effects that may occur and which should immediately be reported to your doctor if they occur. They are yellowing of the skin or eyes, increasing chest pains and darker urine.

Serious allergic reaction to Norvasc is not likely but should immediately be reported if it happens. The serious allergic reaction may be symptomised by itching, rash, trouble breathing, severe dizziness and swelling. Any other side effects besides the ones listed above should be reported to your doctor immediately they are experienced.

Precautions

Before you consume Norvasc inform your doctor about all your allergies to both this drug and any others. In addition, your doctor should be told your medical history, including details of any heart or liver disease. Alcohol consumption should be reduced when on Norvasc. Elderly people are likely to have higher sensitivity to the side effects of the drug and caution should be taken when it is administered to them.

For pregnant women, the medication is only to be used when in it clearly in need, and only after the benefits and risks involved have been discussed with your doctor.

While taking Norvasc, breast feeding is discouraged since it is unknown whether it can pass into breast milk. Your doctor should be consulted before you breast feed.

Interactions with other drugs

If you use or are likely to use prescription drugs, herbal products or non prescription drugs especially those used for treating high blood pressure (like ‘water pills’/ diuretics and beta blockers), treating chest pains (like nitroglycerine ) or intravenous calcium (IV), then you should inform your doctor about the same. The labels on all the medications you take should be checked closely as they may have ingredients that may raise your blood pressure or heart rate. Confirm with your doctor on how to use these products safely, and only they should approve the beginning or the end of your medication.

Overdose

Overdose of Norvasc may carry the following symptoms; fast heart beat, fainting or severe dizziness. You should contact an emergency room or the nearest poison control center if you suspect overdose of Amlodipine.

Notes

This medication is not to be shared. Your blood pressure should regularly be checked while you take it you may have to learn how to monitor this by yourself and you should confer with your doctor on the same. Dietary changes, programs of stress reduction, exercise and other life style changes may make the drug more efficient and therefore you should discuss with your doctor such changes.

Missed dose

Take any missed dose as soon as it comes to mind provided it is not yet time to take the next dose. Otherwise skip it so as not to ‘double up’ on doses.

Storage

Norvasc should be stored at room temperatures of between 15-30°C (59-86 °F) away from moisture and light. It should not be stored in the bathroom and must be kept out of reach for children and pets.